At Ferrara, Ferrero, Fox’s Burton’s, and The Fine Biscuits Company, we’re loved by people of all generations for the joy we bring—and that joy is crafted by our people. Join us and explore a whole world to discover, where your passion will find its place.

Today, Ferrara is the #1 sugar confectioner in the U.S, with global sales in more than 40 countries. Ferrara boasts a passionate team of over 9,000 employees around the world who deliver and create hundreds of iconic and beloved products.

In the U.S., more than 67 million households annually enjoy our popular brands like NERDS®, Brach’s®, Jelly Belly®, SweeTARTS®, Laffy Taffy®, and Trolli®.  In Brazil, Dori has become a household name with snacking products that include brands such as Dori, Gomets, Pettiz, and Yogurte 100. And, in France, Carambar & Co have earned generations of loyal customers through the timeless appeal of iconic candy and chocolate brands such as Carambar, Lutti, Krema, Poulain, Vichy and Terry’s. A privately held company, Ferrara Group is headquartered in Chicago. Ferrara boasts a network of over 30 locations in North America, South America, Europe and Asia Pacific that includes manufacturing, distribution, sales, and R&D facilities.

Learn more at www.ferrara.com or www.linkedin.com/company/ferrara-.

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! You will gain unparalleled experiences throughout the entire manufacturing process and have tremendous opportunities for growth and development, including rotations through leadership positions such as manufacturing supervisors. Manufacturing Leadership Program Trainees rotate through various functions as wel as locations in Illinois, California, and more to come. 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

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