Project Manager

IMA Group is a global leader in the development and production of automatic machines for the processing and packaging of pharmaceutical, cosmetics, food, tea and coffee products. We are constantly oriented towards innovation, thanks to significant investments in R&D and a constant dialogue with customers, the territory and local suppliers. We promote an environmentally friendly attitude towards achieving sustainable development. Our history is characterized by a constant growth, realized also with the continuous investment on the development of people and their skills. We are over 7,000 employees, 59% in Italy and 41% in the rest of the world, present in more than 80 countries.

IMA–North America’s Thomas Processing division is seeking a summer intern majoring in Electrical Engineering or Computer Science and graduating in December 2026 or May 2027. This internship is an excellent opportunity for a student interested in machine design, industrial automation, and control systems to gain hands‑on experience within our automation design department.

We are part of a global manufacturing organization that designs, builds, and tests machinery in the Chicago area for customers worldwide in the pharmaceutical tablet manufacturing industry. Our equipment integrates a range of motors, actuators, and sensors connected to centralized PLC and HMI (Human Machine Interface) systems for process control.

JOB SUMMARY

Job Summary: As a Project Manager, you will be responsible for the end-to-end execution of complex equipment projects, from order intake through installation, commissioning, and final customer acceptance. You will serve as the primary point of contact for custom ers and internal stakeholders, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget. This role requires strong coordination across engineering, manufacturing, service, and sales to successfully deliver high-value pharmaceutical equipment solutions.

Responsibilities:

• Project Execution & Ownership:
• Lead the full lifecycle of capital equipment projects from order entry through FAT, shipment, installation, SAT, and project closeout
• Develop and maintain detailed project timelines, budgets, and resource plans
• Ensure all project deliverables meet contractual and technical requirements
• Customer Interface:
• Act as the primary point of contact for customers throughout the project lifecycle
• Manage customer expectations, communication, and issue resolution
• Lead project review meetings, progress updates, and milestone discussions
• Cross-Functional Coordination:
• Coordinate closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Service teams to ensure alignment on project scope and timelines
• Facilitate internal project meetings and track key actions and deliverables
• Ensure smooth handoffs between departments throughout the project lifecycle
• Risk & Change Management:
• Identify project risks proactively and implement mitigation strategies
• Manage scope changes, including technical, commercial, and schedule impacts
• Ensure proper documentation and approval of all project changes
• Financial Management:
• Monitor project budgets, costs, and margins
• Support invoicing milestones and financial reporting
• Identify opportunities to improve project profitability and efficiency
• Documentation & Compliance:
• Ensure all project documentation (technical, quality, and commercial) is complete and accurate
• Maintain compliance with industry regulations (GMP, FDA, EMA) and company standards
• Support validation activities and documentation as required
• Installation & Commissioning Support:
• Coordinate site activities including installation, commissioning, and acceptance testing
• Work with field service teams to ensure successful equipment startup
• Support resolution of technical issues during commissioning
• Continuous Improvement:
• Capture lessons learned and drive improvements in project execution processes
• Contribute to standardization of project management tools and best practices
• Other Duties:
• Perform all other duties as assigned or directed

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCES

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Life Sciences, Business, or a related field preferred, but not required.
• 3–8+ years of experience in project management, engineering, manufacturing, or technical roles within pharmaceutical, life sciences, or a related industry.
• Experience supporting or managing capital equipment projects or complex technical projects is preferred.
• Familiarity with pharmaceutical manufacturing processes (solid oral dosage and coating experience is a plus, but not required).
• Exposure to regulated environments (e.g., GMP, FDA, EMA) is beneficial but not mandatory.
• Project Management certification (PMP or equivalent) is a plus, but not required.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with customer-facing experience
• High technical aptitude and ability to understand complexequipment and processes
• Strong organizational and time-management skillsin a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency in project management tools and ERP/CRMsystems
• Problem-solving mindset with strong attention to detail
• Ability to work cross-functionally and influence without direct authority
• Self-motivated, proactive, and adaptable
• Strong business acumen and decision-making capability
• High level of integrity and accountability
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and be willing to travel as required.

SALARY RANGE

• $85,000 - $90,000 /year

WHAT WE OFFER

• GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT: A dynamic and innovation-driven workplace, part of a multinational and multicultural group.
• DIVERSITY & INCLUSION CULTURE: Promoted through the Corporate Code of Ethics and dedicated programs.
• CONTINUOUS LEARNING: We view learning as a strategic lever for growth and motivation. We support internal training and external development initiatives.
• WELLBEING: We offer comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, and tuition assistance. As well as an annual bonus.

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IMA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.