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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.

Packaging Machine Operator-Overnight Shift

Work Location: ​IL - Bellwood​

Bellwood, IL

Position requires the ability to work overtime.  As a result, it may require working varying start times, end times, and weekends dependent on business needs.

Want to make an impact?

The position is responsible for set up, operation and maintenance of various machines to ensure the interminable and efficient running of production. The Packaging Machine Operator will operate machines that perform one or more packaging functions including but not limited to filling, labeling, packing, or wrapping containers.

Ways you will make a difference

  • Lead packaging machine set up and changeover for production runs  
  • Follow work instruction, standards and SOP’s for equipment set up and changeover  
  • Identify and resolve issues during set up and changeover 
  • Ensure packaging material, including but not limited to film, cartons, boxes and labeling meets specifications and quality standards; replenish packaging supplies as needed 
  • Feed product to conveyors, hoppers, scales, or other feeding devices  
  • Operate packaging equipment, including troubleshooting and making adjustments in accordance with established work standards; operate touch screen to program code date, product weight and other relevant product data 
  • Conduct detailed quality checks at regular intervals; inspect filled containers to ensure product is packaged according to specifications  
  • Remove rejected product as instructed by metal detector alarm  
  • 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 
  • 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, standards and proper set points including but not limited to metal detectors, check weights and Ishida scales 
  • Ability to pass certification test on pallet jack and fork lift 
  • Ability to walk or stand for prolonged periods; ability to bend, stoop, reach and lift up to 50 pounds 
  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing; ability to apply common sense understanding 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  
  • Able to read, write and communicate effectively in English 

Experiences that will support your success

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

$25 per hour plus a .75 cent per hour shift differential. 

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.

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