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.