Junior Production Area Lead - Lean & Safety Growth

PPG; Alessandria; On-site; EUR 50,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

PPG is seeking a motivated Junior Production Area Manager to support daily operations in our manufacturing team. You will assist in coordinating activities, monitor KPIs, and help ensure safe, efficient production aligned with quality standards.

With 1–3 years in manufacturing and a technical degree, you will work with leaders to apply lean practices, maintain equipment, and drive continuous improvement. Excellent communication and problem-solving are essential for success in a fast-paced

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree or Technical Diploma in Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, Industrial Technology, or related fields.
• 1-3 years of experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably in a Team Leader, Shift Leader, Production Engineer, Production Supervisor, or similar role.
• Experience within chemical manufacturing or other process industries is preferred.
• Basic knowledge of manufacturing processes, plant operations, maintenance practices, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Initial experience in coordinating production teams and supporting daily shop floor activities.
• Familiarity with safety standards and regulatory requirements in an industrial environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proactive attitude, willingness to learn, and ability to adapt in a dynamic production setting.
• Good knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with ERP or production management systems is considered a plus.
• Good command of English, both written and spoken.

Responsibilities

• Support the management of department, assisting in the coordination of daily operations and production schedules.
• Monitor production activities and contribute to the achievement of safety, quality, delivery, and productivity targets.
• Learn and apply OEM standards, technical specifications, and relevant industry requirements (IATF 16949, ISO 9001).
• Support supervisors and operators in maintaining efficient workflows and resolving day‑to‑day operational issues.
• Assist in monitoring key production KPIs (efficiency, scrap rates, cycle times) and participate in the implementation of improvement actions.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives, contributing to Lean Manufacturing and problem‑solving activities.
• Promote and support compliance with workplace safety and environmental standards.
• Collaborate with Logistics, Quality, Maintenance, and Engineering teams to ensure smooth production flows.
• Support maintenance planning activities by coordinating with maintenance teams on preventive and corrective interventions.
• Contribute to employee training and onboarding activities, helping to ensure adherence to operating procedures.
• Prepare reports and communicate production updates to cross‑functional stakeholders.
• Develop leadership and people management skills through coaching, mentoring, and hands‑on experience in the production environment.

Skills

Team Leadership

Problem Solving

Communication

English Proficiency

Education

Bachelor's Degree or Technical Diploma in Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, Industrial Technology, or related fields

Tools

ERP systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

PPG is seeking a motivated Junior Production Area Manager to support daily operations in our manufacturing team. You will assist in coordinating activities, monitor KPIs, and help ensure safe, efficient production aligned with quality standards.

With 1–3 years in manufacturing and a technical degree, you will work with leaders to apply lean practices, maintain equipment, and drive continuous improvement. Excellent communication and problem-solving are essential for success in a fast-paced