Expert Process Engineer, Acquired Sugar Portfolio

Work Location: Chicago

Due to the highly interactive and team-based nature of this role, in-person attendance for most of the workweek (i.e., 3 days or more) is essential for: effective communication including during in-person meetings, strong supervision, real-time problem-solving, and participation in cross-functional initiatives.

Want to make an impact?

The Expert Process Engineer, Acquired Sugar Portfolio plays a critical role in shaping the future of Ferrara's global sugar confections business. This individual will lead high-impact process development initiatives of significant complexity and scale, translating innovation into scalable, efficient, and world-class solutions.

This role will report to the Director, R&D - Acquired Sugar Portfolio.

This position is based at our headquarters at the Old Post Office and will require a minimum of 4 days in the office per week.

Ways you will make a difference

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.

• Leads process design and solution for various product development projects, within sugar confectionery, and ingredient applications across a diverse portfolio of sugar processing technologies.
• Develops process solutions for new recipes to implement into existing manufacturing processes within global markets and has a demonstrated ability to work across different cultures and ways of working.
• Supports the development of product design of experiments on all types of product platforms.
• Collaborates within R&D experts, and across functions of Engineering and Manufacturing staff in project execution, technology transfer, and problem solving.
• Observes, records, and evaluates experimental process data.
• Prepares project reports with demonstrated skills in design of experiment, analysis and conclusions.
• Creates process design solutions in preparation for any capital designs and requests.
• Brings new ideas on process solutions across the product range for different regions.
• Travels, both domestically and internationally- (up to 25-40% of job)
• Role requires on-site presence up to 5 days a week most weeks.
• Ensures adherence to all company policies and procedures.
• Understands and demonstrates the Company's core values.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills that will make you successful

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• Demonstrated ability to flex workstyle in different cultures, ways of working, and learning environments
• Ability to apply scientific knowledge to confectionery technology (including mogul depositing technology).
• Experience preparing process design documentation and solution for use in CAPEX requests
• Ability to lead both product and process design trials and solutions
• Comfortable operating laboratory, pilot plant, and plant equipment
• Problem Solving
• Critical Thinking
• Drive for Results (Can be counted on to exceed goals successfully)
• Deals with Ambiguity (Can effectively and comfortably cope with change and shifting of gears)
• Attention to Detail
• Works well with others and individually
• Time management (Uses their time effectively and efficiently)

Experiences that will support your success

• BS, Master's, or Ph.D. in Food Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field, required.
• Minimum 10 years' experience in food industry or related field.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills (bilingual if possible: Spanish preferred)
• Strong mathematical skills
• Strong computer skills - including Microsoft Office (Word), Spreadsheets, and SAP

What We Offer

At Ferrara, we're proud to support our employees by providing comprehensive benefits such as health insurance, dental insurance, a 401(k), and 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-Candy-2025-OE-QR

Compensation

The salary range for this role is $102,000- $143,000 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.

Nearest Major Market: Chicago