Freelance project manager (zzp) – mechanical engineering / machine building – amsterdam

Freelance Project Manager (ZZP) – Mechanical Engineering / Machine Building – Amsterdam Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands Duration: 12 months+ (freelance ZZP contract) Sector: Machine Building / Industrial Machinery 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.

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