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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.

Manufacturing Internship Program 2026

Work Location: Chicago

Greater Chicago Area

Want to make an impact?

We’re looking for current juniors interested in internships within our Manufacturing Plants! Manufacturing Interns will have the opportunity to experience multiple aspects of Manufacturing Operations, including Production, Quality, Continuous Improvement, Maintenance, Engineering, Environmental Health & Safety, Inventory Supply, and more! During the 10-week internship in the summer of 2026, interns will gain experience in a manufacturing environment and hone leadership skills through projects, mentorship, exposure to leadership, and a final presentation. There is a potential opportunity for full time offers following this internship.

Ways you will make a difference

Lead by example – be a collaborative, team-player who builds a strong rapport with production employees 
Aim to not only meet but exceed production goals 
Focus on safety and always strive to leave things better than they were

Skills that will make you successful

Agile thinker
Lean experience 
Previous manufacturing experience is a plus 
Strong presentation skills 
Demonstrated leadership abilities through on-campus activities
Empathy and collaboration skills

Experiences that will support your success

Current junior or Spring/Summer 2027 grad majoring in Engineering with a focus in Manufacturing, Industrial, or Mechanical Engineering

Compensation

$28/hr

What We Offer

At Ferrara, our 10–12-week summer program provides meaningful, hands-on experience through real assignments and projects that make an impact. Interns receive competitive pay, mentorship, and professional development opportunities, including leadership sessions and a final presentation to senior leaders. Our manufacturing interns gain valuable, on-the-floor experience in a fast-paced environment, building technical and leadership skills while contributing to the teams that bring our iconic brands to life. Beyond work, you’ll enjoy perks such as group outings and activities around the Chicagoland area.

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.

Nearest Major Market: Chicago