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.

Palletizer - 2nd Shift

Job Location: ​Forest Park​

Forest Park

Want to make an impact?

The Palletizer is responsible for set up, operation and maintenance of palletizing machines to ensure continuous, efficient production. 

Ways you will make a difference

  • Ensure packaging material, including but not limited to film, cartons, boxes and labeling meets specifications and quality standards; replenish packaging supplies as needed
  • Conduct detailed quality checks at regular intervals but no less than ever hour to ensure product is packaged according to specifications
  • Diagnose and resolve mechanical issues with equipment at the entry maintenance mechanic level
  •  Follow escalation protocol in a timely manner when troubleshooting efforts fail
  • Work closely with maintenance when escalation to maintenance support is needed for a mechanical issue
  • Properly insert pallets, cardboard sheets, clear jams, and change shrink plastic on pallet wrapper.
  •  Correctly changeover from program to program.
  • Maintains the work area clean and safe at all times.
  • Ensure line operations meet established standards, specifications, and efficiency and quality requirements to affect favorable production results.
  •  Work in conjunction with PMO (Machine Operator) for positive production results.
  •  Ensure accurate finished good paperwork is turned in a timely manner.
  • Check the quality of product and call for supervision when questionable.
  • Request maintenance on machinery when problems arise.
  • Make sure the line is cleaned between jobs (Changeovers) and at the end of the shift.
  •  Communicate any problems or concerns with the Shift Supervisor.
  •  Anticipate changes and act accordingly.
  • Have sufficient amount of product and components on the line to allow for a steady flow of work.
  • Maintain efficient production rates while complying with safety, quality and GMP practices.
  •  Understand and demonstrate the Company’s core values and operating principles
  • Adhere to all company policies and procedures, GMP and safety standards
  •  Perform other duties as assigned to support Ferrara Candy Company business objectives

Skills that will make you successful

  • Minimum of 1 year experience operating packaging machinery and/or working in food manufacturing strongly preferred
  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or one to three months’ related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Basic mathematical skills
  • Basic understanding of equipment capabilities
  • Ability to pass certification test on pallet jack and fork lift
  • LOTO certification
  • Ability to walk or stand for prolonged periods; ability to bend, stoop, reach and lift up to 50 pounds
  • Adhere to all GMP’s (Good Manufacturing Practices), such as good hand washing practices and adhering to the employee hygiene plan.
  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing; ability to carry out detailed written and/or oral instructions
  • Promote teamwork; possess a good attitude, and exhibit flexibility and willingness to perform tasks as needed.
  • Ability to problem solve by adjusting variables in standardized situations

Experiences that will support your success

This position requires knowledge and awareness of manufacturing and industrial sites. Protective gear will be required where appropriate. Position requires ability to work overtime, varying start times and weekends dependent on business needs.

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.