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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 Leadership Program - Spring 2026 Grads

Work Location: Chicago

Locations vary throughout the Greater Chicagoland Area, California, and other locations.

Want to make an impact?

As part of this highly selective program, you will participate in a series of rotational assignments across Ferrara’s manufacturing operations, including Production, Quality, Continuous Improvement, Maintenance, Engineering, Environmental Health & Safety, Inventory Supply, and more! As a member of the three-year Manufacturing Leadership Program, you will gain unparalleled experiences of the entire manufacturing process and have tremendous opportunities for growth and development. We are looking for candidates who desire a long-term career in manufacturing, are energized by being on the factory floor, and want to lead teams to achieve outstanding results.

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 a plus 
Strong presentation skills 
Demonstrated leadership abilities through on campus activities
Empathy and collaboration skills

Experiences that will support your success

Spring 2026 grad completing a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering with a focus in Manufacturing, Industrial, Mechanical Engineering, or related field OR completing a Bachelor's Degree in Business with a focus on Operations, Operations Management, or related field.

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

$77,000 annually

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