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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-/

Manager, Maintenance

Work Location: ​DeKalb​

​​Due to the highly interactive nature of this manufacturing position, in-person attendance and flexibility are essential for supporting production schedules, effective communication and collaboration, real-time problem solving, and participation in cross-functional initiatives. Schedules may vary and are subject to change.​ 

Want to make an impact?

The Maintenance Manager leads the maintenance department at the facility, providing technical direction, and ensuring that the facility, layout, and machinery run to their maximum efficiency and output. The Maintenance Manager uses Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) to perform continuous improvement initiatives, preventive maintenance, and support overall plant performance. Opened in 2021, the DeKalb Packaging Center is a state-of-the-art facility that supports packaging for the Chicagoland area manufacturing facilities and more. 

Ways you will make a difference

  • Lead the site Maintenance function in providing both a reactive and proactive, multi-skilled maintenance service on all operational equipment and facilities infrastructure
  • Manage complete Maintenance team on technical best-practices and establish standard policies and procedures whilst mentoring and leading the department
  • Utilize all pillars of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) to focus on Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), with specific focus on AM and PM pillars
  • Increase the site operational effectiveness, improving project delivery, downtime reduction, and driving other maintenance KPIs
  • Implement and manage continuous improvement and modern manufacturing principals by highlighting deficiencies and recommending changes in training, working practices and processes
  • Define, propose, and monitor the maintenance improvement plans and objectives as established in the annual strategic plan
  • Propose and implement work processes, procedures and technical resources related to improving equipment reliability
  • Propose, prioritize, and control the repair and maintenance (R&M) budget
  • Promote a safety-first culture
  • Collaborate between production, quality, sanitation, and warehouse teams on equipment repairs and maintenance
  • Ensure that the technical integrity and availability of equipment comply with all regulations 

Skills that will make you successful

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Problem solving capabilities
  • Demonstrated leadership abilities and interpersonal skills
  • Strong organization and multi-tasking skills - ability to balance and prioritize several projects simultaneously 

Experiences that will support your success

  • BS degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering degree preferred
  • 5-7 years of supervisory/managerial experience in maintenance or technical field required
  • Direct maintenance experience working in CPG or food manufacturing strongly preferred
  • Experience implementing Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), with focus on AM and PM pillars required
  • Must be proficient in standard computer applications including Microsoft Office Suite and Microsoft products
  • SAP or other ERP software experience a plus
  • Experience implementing continuous improvement strategies and overseeing change management
  • In-depth knowledge of equipment maintenance and technology 

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 $102,075 - $142,905 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.

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