Freelance Project Manager (ZZP) – Mechanical Engineering / Machine Building – Amsterdam

Optimus Search; Amsterdam; On-site; EUR 90,000 - 120,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency seeks a Freelance Project Manager for mechanical engineering projects in Amsterdam. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience managing complex machinery projects and a strong technical background in mechanical engineering. Responsibilities include managing project scope, coordinating teams, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. Fluency in Dutch and English is required. This is a freelance contract role with an on-site presence in Amsterdam.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience as a Project Manager within machine building or mechanical engineering.
• Strong technical background in mechanical engineering or mechatronics.
• Proven experience managing custom-built machinery projects.
• Willingness for regular on-site presence in Amsterdam.

Responsibilities

• Manage projects from kick-off to commissioning and handover.
• Define project scope, planning, milestones, and budgets.
• Coordinate mechanical engineering activities.
• Lead multidisciplinary teams including mechanical, electrical, controls, and production.
• Monitor progress, risks, and change requests, applying corrective actions.
• Interface with customers on technical and commercial matters, with regular updates.
• Coordinate suppliers, subcontractors, and external partners.
• Ensure compliance with CE, ISO and industry regulations.
• Oversee documentation, technical files, FAT/SAT prep and delivery readiness.

Skills

Project Management

Mechanical Engineering

Stakeholder Management

Fluent in Dutch and English

Risk management

Tools

ERP systems

MS Project

Stage-gate processes

Job description

Freelance Project Manager (ZZP) – Mechanical Engineering / Machine Building – Amsterdam

Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Duration: 12 months+ (freelance ZZP contract)

Scope: Project Management – Mechanical Engineering – Delivery & Coordination

We are seeking a Freelance Project Manager (ZZP) to support a leading machine builder in Amsterdam specializing in the design and delivery of high‑precision, fully automated production systems. The organization develops custom‑built machinery for the food processing, packaging, and high‑tech manufacturing industries, serving clients across the Netherlands and Europe.

Their portfolio includes complex material‑handling systems, robotic packaging lines, high‑speed production machines, and advanced mechatronic assemblies used in demanding industrial environments. You will take ownership of mechanical engineering projects from order intake through design, manufacturing, assembly, and final delivery.

You will act as the central point of contact between engineering, production, suppliers, and customers, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to specification.

Your Role

• Manage mechanical engineering and machine-building projects from kick‑off to commissioning and handover.
• Define project scope, planning, milestones, budgets, and resource allocation.
• Coordinate mechanical engineering activities, ensuring alignment between design, manufacturing, and assembly.
• Lead multidisciplinary project teams including mechanical, electrical, controls, and production departments.
• Monitor project progress, risks, and change requests, implementing corrective actions where required.
• Interface with customers on technical and commercial matters, providing regular status updates.
• Coordinate suppliers, subcontractors, and external engineering partners.
• Ensure compliance with CE, ISO, and applicable industry regulations (e.g., food safety, machinery directive).
• Oversee documentation, technical files, FAT/SAT preparation, and delivery readiness.

Your Profile

• 5+ years of experience as a Project Manager within machine building, mechanical engineering, or industrial automation.
• Strong technical background in mechanical engineering or mechatronics.
• Proven experience managing complex, custom‑built machinery or OEM equipment projects.
• Familiar with engineering workflows, manufacturing processes, and assembly environments.
• Able to read and understand mechanical drawings, BOMs, and technical documentation.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Fluent in Dutch and English.
• Registered ZZP’er, eligible to work in the Netherlands.
• Available for regular on‑site presence in Amsterdam.

Bonus Skills

• Experience managing high‑speed machinery, hygienic machine design, or cleanroom‑compatible systems.
• Knowledge of risk management, DFMEA, and change control processes.
• Familiarity with ERP systems, project planning tools, or stage‑gate development processes.
• Experience with international customers and supplier coordination.

Apply now – interviews starting soon!