Senior Operations Expert (Expansion Project)

Trieste, Via degli Alti Forni snc.

HHLA PLT Italy S.r.l.

Project Management

HHLA PLT Italy is a multipurpose maritime terminal started in 2021, located in the middle of the fast-growing North Adriatic market. Here, the Expansion Project Team, carried out by the company Logistica Giuliana, is planning and executing a game changer phased project aiming to integrate the current facility into a state-of-the-art container terminal, making use of the most advanced technologies and expertise.

The vision for our growing Operations Team is a combination of senior and junior profiles bringing Project Management and Operational Planning/Execution know-how coming from specific terminal experiences.

The main activities of the team will be related to process design, business analysis and project management, with regular and frequent interfaces with both internal departments (mainly Civil Engineering, Equipment, IT & Automation), and external parties (vendors, consultants, HHLA support from the headquarters).

What you can expect

• Level of exposure to challenges and responsibilities directly proportional to the relevant experience, and always oriented to your professional growth
• Strong collaborative environment
• Highly motivated and ambitious team
• Specific theoretical and on-the-ground training ensured by HHLA and its subsidiaries, based on actual needs
• Wide involvement in all the multidisciplinary aspects of a complex mixed brown-greenfield terminal project
• Direct exposure to business design and decision-making
• Responsibilities in project management of operational topics
• Implementation of advanced automation solutions
• Clear and measurable personal targets

What you bring to the table

We are shaping a versatile and forward-thinking Operations Team (Expansion) and are seeking experienced professionals who can bring depth in key areas while remaining open to learning and collaboration. While no single person is expected to master the entire skillset, we value individuals who are curious, proactive in sharing their expertise, and ready to lead by example—mentoring others and continuously evolving themselves within a dynamic, cross-functional environment.

• Good English (Italian and/or German are a plus)
• Previous terminal experience (planning/execution of container operations is key; other experience in Rail-cargo, RoRo, General Cargo, or from non-operational departments of container terminals are highly valued), ideally in management roles
• Familiarity with various types of container handling equipment
• Proficient in identifying and analyzing operational gaps
• Ability to map and design operational processes
• Experience with requirements engineering for terminal IT systems
• Skilled in data analysis with a focus on continuous improvement initiatives
• Experience in industrial automation and related safety regulation
• Knowledge of simulation techniques for operational modeling and optimization
• Understanding of AI technologies and their application in industrial settings
• Proven project management capabilities
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to effectively manage and engage stakeholders at all levels
• Demonstrating leadership by adhering to and promoting safety and security protocols
• Willingness to support departmental and broader business needs as required
• Adherence to corporate policies, including the authority matrix and contract compliance guidelines
• Proactively identifying and reporting opportunities for operational improvement
• The ideal candidate would have a valid EU working permit and would be willing to relocate to Trieste

Salary range: 45.000-65.000€

The salary range indicated represents the expected compensation for the position. The final compensation package will be determined at the end of the recruitment process, considering professional experience, skills, and overall suitability for the role.

We encourage applications from candidates belonging to protected categories under Law 68/99, including individuals with disabilities and other underrepresented groups.

As an international logistics company with its roots in Hamburg, HHLA stands for cosmopolitanism and tolerance. We are convinced of the advantages of different perspectives, experiences, and competences. Our aim is to create a working environment in which humanity, mutual respect and appreciation are the basis for the actions of all employees.

If you would like to shape the future of HHLA PLT Italy together with us, we look forward to receiving your detailed application - preferably online via our application form.

Disclaimer: This job description may not be inclusive of all assigned duties, responsibilities, or aspects of the job described and may be amended at any time at the sole discretion of the Employer.

The company promotes hiring and compensation practices based on fairness, transparency, and the recognition of individual skills and competencies, in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Your contact

HHLA PLT Italy S.r.l.
HR Management