Industrial Cook - overnight shift

Ferrara Candy Co.; Bellwood (IL); On-site; USD 29,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Ferrara Candy Co. in Illinois is seeking an Industrial Cook for a night shift to operate and maintain computerized cooking kettles that manufacture starch gelatin products. The role requires the ability to stand for long periods, lift up to 50 pounds, and strict adherence to GMP and safety standards.

You will check production schedules, lead machine setup and changeovers, follow SOPs, troubleshoot with maintenance, and ensure product quality meets established standards.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 1 year experience batch making and/or work as a cook in food manufacturing strongly preferred.
• Ability to pass certification test on pallet jack and fork lift.
• Working conditions: knowledge of manufacturing and industrial sites; protective gear as required.

Responsibilities

• Check production schedule to determine variety and quantity of products to cook.
• Lead machine set up and changeover for production runs.
• Follow work instructions, standards and SOPs for equipment set up and changeover.
• Identify and resolve issues during set up and changeover.
• Identify ingredients and equipment needed for each production run; set product information into touch screen panel.
• Feed cooker with raw materials and cook mixed products.
• Adjust controls to regulate temperature and materials for quality.
• Diagnose and resolve mechanical issues with equipment at entry maintenance level.
• Follow escalation protocol when troubleshooting fails.
• Work with maintenance when escalation is needed for mechanical issues.
• Adhere to GMP and safety standards.

Skills

Basic math

Equipment understanding

Verbal and written communication

Teamwork

Problem solving

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

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At Ferrara, Ferrero, Fox’s Burton’s, and The Fine Biscuits Company, we’re loved by people of all generations for the joy we bring—and that joy is crafted by our people. Join us and explore a whole world to discover, where your passion will find its place.

Today, Ferrara is the #1 sugar confectioner in the U.S, with global sales in more than 40 countries. Ferrara boasts a passionate team of over 9,000 employees around the world who deliver and create hundreds of iconic and beloved products.

In the U.S., more than 67 million households annually enjoy our popular brands like NERDS®, Brach’s®, Jelly Belly®, SweeTARTS®, Laffy Taffy®, and Trolli®. In Brazil, Dori has become a household name with snacking products that include brands such as Dori, Gomets, Pettiz, and Yogurte 100. And, in France, Carambar & Co have earned generations of loyal customers through the timeless appeal of iconic candy and chocolate brands such as Carambar, Lutti, Krema, Poulain, Vichy and Terry’s. A privately held company, Ferrara Group is headquartered in Chicago. Ferrara boasts a network of over 30 locations in North America, South America, Europe and Asia Pacific that includes manufacturing, distribution, sales, and R&D facilities.

Position requires the ability to work overtime. As a result, it may require working varying start times, end times, and weekends dependent on business needs.
**This is an NIGHT shift position, hours are 4pm-4:30am. 2 days on, 2 days off, every other weekend (Sat, Sun, Mon) off)

Want to make an impact?

The Industrial Cook is responsible for operating and maintaining computerized cooking kettles that manufacture starch gelatin products.

Ways you will make a difference

• Check production schedule to determine variety and quantity of products to cook
• Lead machine set up and changeover for production runs
• Follow work instructions, standards and SOP’s for equipment set up and changeover
• Identify and resolve issues during set up and changeover
• Identify ingredients and equipment needed for each production run; set product information into touch screen panel, including but not limited to raw materials, pumps, gauges, valves and temperatures
• Feed cooker with raw materials including but not limited to starch, liquid colored flavors, sugar, corn syrup and gelatin; cook mixed products
• Conduct adjustments to controls to regulate temperature, amount of raw materials and other variables to ensure product quality exceeds established standards
• Diagnose and resolve mechanical issues with equipment at the entry maintenance mechanic level
• Follow escalation protocol in a timely manner when troubleshooting efforts fail
• Work closely with maintenance when escalation to maintenance support is needed for a mechanical issue
• Adhere to all company policies and procedures, GMP and safety standards

Skills that will make you successful

• Basic mathematical skills
• Basic understanding of equipment capabilities, standards and proper set points
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing; ability to understand detailed written and/or oral instructions
• Promote teamwork; possess a good attitude, and exhibit flexibility and willingness to perform tasks as needed
• Ability to solve problems by adjusting variables in standardized situations

Experiences that will support your success

• Minimum of 1 year experience batch making and/or work as a cook in food manufacturing strongly preferred
• Ability to pass certification test on pallet jack and fork lift
• High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or one to three months’ related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Working Conditions - This position requires knowledge and awareness of manufacturing and industrial sites. Protective gear will be required where appropriate.
• Physical Requirements - Ability to walk or stand for prolonged periods; ability to bend, stoop, reach and lift up to 50 pounds repetitively.

What We Offer

At Ferrara, we're proud to support our employees with comprehensive benefits that enhance health, financial wellness, and include paid time off (PTO). Eligible employees may also receive an annual bonus based on company performance. Learn more about our benefits at https://flimp.live/Ferrara-Benefits-Resource-Center

Compensation

$25.50 per hour plus 75 cent per hour shift differential

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees, employment decisions and opportunities at Ferrara will be based on merit, qualifications, and abilities, without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital or civil union status, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, military or veteran status, disability, handicap, genetic information, pregnancy (childbirth or related medical condition), or on any other basis prohibited by law. This policy governs all aspects of employment, including selection, job assignment, compensation, discipline, termination, and access to benefits and training.