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.

Production Machine Operator-Day Shift

Job Location: ​Bellwood​

Want to make an impact?

The Mogul Operator is responsible for molding, depositing, de-molding and drying/curing in the manufacture of starch gelatin products utilizing a computer operated manufacturing machine (Mogul).

Ways you will make a difference

Essential Accountabilities

  • Check production schedule to determine variety and quantity of products to manufacture
  • Use control panel to set up and adjust mogul operating parameters, initiate start up and ongoing adjustment of machines during production runs
  • 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
  • Observe gauges, dials, and product characteristics, and adjust controls to maintain appropriate temperature, pressure, and flow of ingredients
  • Inspect and verifies moldboard printing impression quality and mogul candy depositing while making adjustments as necessary
  • Record daily production and test data including but not limited to mogul performance, equipment down time, product quality and product specifications
  • Maintain a clean and safe work area, and insure adherence to sanitation procedures
  • Understand causes of equipment malfunctions and alarms; shut down equipment and notify supervisors when necessary
  • Conduct hourly quality checks on colors, flavors, weight, appearance and other product specifications and record data
  • Diagnose and resolve mechanical issues with equipment at the entry maintenance mechanic level
  • Work closely with maintenance when escalation to maintenance support is needed for a mechanical issue
  • Understand and demonstrate the Company’s core values and operating principles
  • Adhere to all company policies and procedures, GMP and safety standards; ensure adherence with AIB, SQF and other relevant standards
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support Ferrara Candy Company business objectives

Skills that will make you successful

Knowledge, Skills, Education and Experience

  • Minimum of 1 year experience in the operation of related manufacturing and material handling equipment in food manufacturing strongly preferred
  • 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
  • Basic mathematical skills
  • Basic understanding of equipment capabilities, standards and proper set points
  • Ability to pass certification test on pallet jack and fork lift
  • Ability to walk or stand for prolonged periods; ability to bend, stoop, reach and lift up to 50 pounds
  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing; ability to understand detailed written and/or oral instructions
  • Able to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals
  • Promote teamwork; possess a good attitude, and exhibit flexibility and willingness to perform tasks as needed
  • Ability to problem solve by adjusting variables in standardized situations

Experiences that will support your success

Ferrara’s success in industry-leading innovation has been driven by deep consumer insights, strong retailer co-creation and partnerships, and a dedication to diversity of thought, experience, and people. A privately held company, Ferrara has its global headquarters in Chicago and an operational network of more than 27 locations in North America, Brazil, and China that includes manufacturing, distribution, sales, and R&D facilities. Ferrara is a privately held Ferrero related company. Learn more at www.ferrara.com or www.linkedin.com/company/ferrara-.

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.