Machine Operator (Engrosser) 1St Shift

Work Location: Forest Park

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.

Core Hours: 4am-4:30pm

Want to make an impact?

As a Machine Operator (Engrosser), reporting to the Production Supervisor, you'll play an essential role in bringing our confectionery products to life. By operating and monitoring engrossing equipment, ensuring product quality, and maintaining efficient production processes, you'll help create the consistent taste, texture, and appearance our customers expect. Your attention to detail, commitment to safety, and focus on operational excellence directly contribute to delivering high-quality products enjoyed by consumers every day.

Ways you will make a difference

• Conducts assigned work in a safe manner and adheres to Ferrara's safety methods
• Adheres to all Ferrara established GMP's
• Verifies centers that will be engrossed meet all quality standards regarding size and solids
• Feeds kettle with raw materials (i.e., sugar, syrup, etc.) and cooks ingredients to specifications
• Responsible for safe operation and sanitary upkeep of entire bay of pans
• Loads pan and engrosses centers to proper size and weight using syrup and dry sugar (or dextrose) according to procedure and recipe
• Conducts adjustments to controls to regulate temperature, amount of raw materials, etc.
• Loads trays / boards on truck to be sent to the polishing room
• Checks production schedule to determine variety and quantity of products to engross
• Conducts periodic quality checks
• Conducts changeovers
• Responsible for hygiene and general organization of entire work area including, but not limited to clean up of all equipment and surrounding areas and prevention of cross contamination
• Operate all equipment safely with all guards in place
• Informs immediate supervisor of any problems encountered including, but not limited to quality, safety and/or equipment performance

Skills that will make you successful

• Ability to deal with problems involving variables in standardized situations
• Ability to operate and troubleshoot problems with all necessary process equipment
• Ability to perform simple arithmetic calculations
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedural manuals
• Reliable attendance and punctuality, with the ability to work scheduled shifts and overtime as required
• Capable of understanding time tracking objectives with the ability to swipe into orders and perform other objectives in the system
• Promotes teamwork, possesses a good attitude, and exhibits flexibility and willingness to perform tasks as needed

Experiences that will support your success

• 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.
• 1 year of batch making experience preferred

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 for this role is $25.50 per hour.

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