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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-/

Process Expert Engineer

Join us at a defining moment.

We’re building the largest food manufacturing facility in our network, a bold investment that will set new standards for scale, technology, and efficiency. This is a rare opportunity to play a critical role to build a site from the ground up, shaping the people strategy, culture, and operations that will power our future.

We’re looking for a builder. Someone who thrives in fast-moving, ambiguous environments and brings an entrepreneurial mindset. This role requires agility, curiosity, and a hands-on approach. You’ll be solving problems in real time, building processes from scratch, and creating a high-performing, engaged workforce from day one. If you’re driven by impact, ownership, and results, this is your chance to leave a lasting mark.

Work Location: Orangeburg

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.

Want to make an impact?

Step into a career-defining role where your expertise will shape the automation backbone of a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility for a global leader in sugar confections. As the Process Expert Engineer, you’ll design, implement, and optimize the advanced control systems that power efficiency, reliability, and scalability across our new flagship site. By leading automation strategy from concept through commissioning, you’ll help set the standard for innovation and operational excellence in the fast-moving consumer goods industry.

Ways you will make a difference

Process Optimization & Technical Leadership

Lead the specification, development, design, and optimization of manufacturing processes for confectionery products, ensuring efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
Provide expert guidance on all aspects of process engineering, including raw material handling, mixing, molding, coating, and extruding.
Drive process efficiency initiatives that lead to cost savings and sustainable improvements.
Identify and troubleshoot process-related issues using root cause analysis techniques to minimize downtime and enhance production stability.
Evaluate new processing equipment and technology solutions, working closely with R&D and suppliers to ensure successful implementation.

Project Management & Execution

Manage engineering projects from concept through execution, including defining scope, managing budgets, timelines, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.
Scope and execute workstreams, trials, and process qualifications to validate new equipment and processes in production environments.
Ensure process solutions integrate seamlessly into manufacturing facilities without negatively impacting production efficiency (e.g., scrap rates, run rates).
Lead and participate in Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs), commissioning, and startup of equipment.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Leadership

Work closely with R&D, Quality, Packaging, Supply Chain, Operations, and PMO teams to support technical evaluations, process design, and long-term technology strategy.
Coach and train factory operations on process theory of operations.
Continuously evaluate new technologies to keep the facility ahead of the curve in performance and sustainability.

Compliance & Continuous Improvement

Ensure all manufacturing processes comply with health and safety regulations, food safety standards (HACCP, GMP, ISO), and environmental guidelines.
Apply Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies to drive continuous improvement, optimize process flows, and reduce waste.
Support initiatives related to Food Safety, EHS, and Sustainability, ensuring compliance with industry standards and corporate objectives.

Skills that will make you successful

Experience in the design, construction, and operation of sugar candy, chewing gum, snacks, or prepared food processing facilities
Thorough knowledge of food safety and sanitary design, and knowledge of food industry standards, practices, and regulations
Experience with the development of process design basis and select unit operations, the preparation of mass and energy balances, and the preparation of hydraulic and thermal calculations
Experience with application, sizing, and specification of process equipment (mixers, cookers, ovens, vessels, pumps, agitators, heat exchangers, filters, separators, clean-in-place, conveyors, dryers, filling, packaging, and emission control units) and utility equipment (boilers, compressors, filters, chillers, cooling towers, and water treatment systems)
Strong technical expertise in automation, controls, robotics, and industrial IT systems
Experience with process flow drawing (PFD) and P&ID development preferred
Experience working with equipment supply and technology vendors to identify, specify, purchase, review submittals and incorporate data into designs
Experience with equipment procurement support and bid evaluation
Excellent problem-solving skills with a focus on root cause and continuous improvement
Ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly across functions and levels

Experiences that will support your success

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Chemical, related Engineering discipline (Master’s preferred)
10+ years of engineering experience in manufacturing, ideally FMCG, food & beverage, or CPG industries
Track record of leading process design, integration, and commissioning for large-scale capital projects

What We Offer

At Ferrara, we're proud to support our employees with comprehensive benefits that enhance health, financial wellness, and include 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-Benefits-Resource-Center

Compensation

The salary range for this role is $98,843 to $138,381 annually.

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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.