Sr. Manager, Process Engineering

Ferrero SpA; Bellwood (IL); On-site; USD 112,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Senior Manager, Process Engineering to lead initiatives in the sugar confectionery sector. This role focuses on optimizing manufacturing processes, ensuring high-quality standards, and driving innovation through collaboration with cross-functional teams. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in process engineering, particularly in food manufacturing, and will be responsible for managing projects that enhance production efficiency and compliance with safety regulations. Join a dynamic team that values creativity and continuous improvement, and make a significant impact in a thriving industry.

Benefits

Paid time off (PTO)

Annual bonus based on company performance

Comprehensive health benefits

Financial wellness programs

Qualifications

• 7-10 years in process engineering, with 3 years in a senior role.
• Strong knowledge of confectionery processes and automation.

Responsibilities

• Optimize manufacturing processes for confectionery products.
• Manage engineering projects ensuring compliance with standards.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams for process improvements.

Skills

Leadership & Communication

Problem-Solving & Analytical Skills

Project Management

Industry Networking

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Food Process Engineering

Master’s degree (a plus)

Tools

Microsoft Office

AutoCAD

Process simulation software

ERP systems

Job description

For more than 115 years, Ferrara has created sugar confections that enable moments of sweetness, celebration, and connection for candy lovers of all generations. Today, the company is the #1 sugar confectioner in the United States. Ferrara boasts a passionate team of nearly 9,000 employees creating and delivering hundreds of products sold under 20 popular brands like Brach’s, NERDS, SweeTARTS, Laffy Taffy, and Trolli to more than 66 million U.S. households annually and popular Dori snacking products under brands such as Dori, Gomets, Pettiz, and Yogurte 100 in Brazil. Additionally, Jelly Belly, known world-wide for its confections, was acquired in November of 2023.

Sr. Manager, Process Engineering

Job Location: Bellwood

The role will be based out of our location in Bellwood, IL and will require travel to the factories.

Want to make an impact?

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Manager, Process Engineer to join our dynamic team in the sugar confectionery industry. This role will be responsible for optimizing and troubleshooting manufacturing processes, ensuring high-quality standards, improving production efficiency, and leading engineering initiatives to drive innovation and continuous improvement. The individual will work closely with cross-functional teams to evaluate and implement new technologies, execute process improvement initiatives, and provide technical expertise in the development and industrialization of new and existing confectionery products.

Ways you will make a difference

Process Optimization & Technical Leadership

• Lead the development, design, and optimization of manufacturing processes for confectionery products, ensuring efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
• Provide expert guidance on all aspects of process engineering, including raw material handling, mixing, molding, coating, and extruding.
• Drive process efficiency initiatives that lead to cost savings and sustainable improvements.
• Identify and troubleshoot process-related issues using root cause analysis techniques to minimize downtime and enhance production stability.
• Evaluate new processing equipment and technology solutions, working closely with R&D and suppliers to ensure successful implementation.

Project Management & Execution

• Manage engineering projects from concept through execution, including defining scope, managing budgets, timelines, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.
• Scope and execute workstreams, trials, and process qualifications to validate new equipment and processes in production environments.
• Ensure process solutions integrate seamlessly into manufacturing facilities without negatively impacting production efficiency (e.g., scrap rates, run rates).
• Lead and participate in Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs), and commissioning and startup of equipment.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Leadership

• Work closely with R&D, Quality, Packaging, Supply Chain, Operations, and PMO teams to support technical evaluations, process design, and long-term technology strategy.
• Lead and mentor junior engineers and technicians, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, safety, and high performance.
• Coach and train factory operations on process theory of operations.
• Act as a technical expert in sugar confectionery manufacturing, building internal and external networks to stay updated on industry best practices.

Compliance & Continuous Improvement

• Ensure all manufacturing processes comply with health and safety regulations, food safety standards (HACCP, GMP, ISO), and environmental guidelines.
• Apply Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies to drive continuous improvement, optimize process flows, and reduce waste.
• Support initiatives related to Food Safety, EHS, and Sustainability, ensuring compliance with industry standards and corporate objectives.

Skills that will make you successful

• Leadership & Communication: Strong interpersonal skills, ability to influence and collaborate across teams, and effective verbal/written communication skills.
• Industry Networking: Ability to build relationships with equipment vendors and leverage external expertise to drive innovation.
• Problem-Solving & Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze complex manufacturing challenges and implement effective solutions, while using statistical software for data analysis.
• Project Management: Proven track record of managing multiple complex projects while meeting critical deadlines and staying within budget.

Experiences that will support your success

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Food Process Engineering, Agricultural & Biological Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field (Master’s is a plus).
• Experience: Minimum 7-10 years in process engineering, with at least 3 years in a senior or leadership role in confectionery, food manufacturing, pharma, or chemical industries.
• Technical Expertise: Strong knowledge of confectionery processes (chocolate, candy, gummies) or demonstrated ability to translate skills from other industries. Experience with automation, process control systems, hygienic design and maintenance best practices.
• Software Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word), AutoCAD, process simulation software, and familiarity with ERP systems.

Additional Requirements

• Travel: 10-30% domestic and international travel required for equipment installations, factory trials, and vendor interactions.
• Flexibility: Willingness to work flexible hours to support manufacturing needs.
• Valid Driver’s License: Required.

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 @ https://flimp.live/Ferrara-Benefits-Resource-Center.

Compensation

The salary range for this position is $112,425 to $160,000 annually.

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.