R&D Food Process Engineer

Job Location: ​Chicago​

Want to make an impact?

Reporting to the Process Engineering Manager, this individual will organize, execute, and lead key process development and implementation activities for the Ferrara portfolio of products. Projects will be related to renovation, innovation, quality improvement, new technologies, network moves, margin management, etc.

Ways you will make a difference

• Provide support on process & technical aspects of the existing brands: supporting stage gate activities, generating process/product specifications, product & process manuals, and troubleshooting guidance.
• Seek out and evaluate processing technologies in support of the creation of a long term technology strategy.
• Scope and execute work streams & trials and use results to progress projects and provide recommendations.
• Provide robust technical recommendations on technology and process conditions. 
• Collaborate with R&D Product Development Scientists towards the development of new product initiatives from bench to pilot scale, and into full-scale execution. Providing technological expertise and ideal process recommendations.
• Partner and work closely with Marketing, Supply Chain, Operations, Engineering, Packaging functions, etc. toward successful planning, scale up, and execution of all the initiatives.
• Create Basis of Design documentation for capital installations.
• Purchase and orchestrate the installation and commissioning of pilot plant equipment.
• Qualify processing lines internally and at contract manufacturers for product launches and network moves.
• Build technical expertise in the sugar category by networking with subject matter experts within the company and externally.
• Provide guidance into R&D project timelines to ensure required equipment and resources are available for use. 
• Understands and demonstrates the Company’s core values.
• Conduct assigned work in a safe manner and adheres to Ferrara safety methods.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
   

Skills that will make you successful

• Good understanding/appreciation of the broader business environment and application of technical and commercial knowledge during project execution.
• Very strong interpersonal skills with ability to influence with integrity through persuasive communication to win support at more senior levels within R&D, Operations and Supply Chain, and to build effective relationships with a  wide range of stakeholders.
• Good technical, analytical, and communication skills; ability to interpret data and distil into useful and actionable information.
• Self-starter, self-motivating: able to balance competing priorities without losing momentum and manage uncertainty and complexity in fast evolving CPG environments.
• Quickly analyze complex problems to find actionable pragmatic solutions and constructive action plan.
• Able to inspire passion and creativity around shared goals with colleagues, and support an environment of achievement, recognition, and celebration.
• Ability to create and use networks to actively seek and take advantage of ideas, best practices, and solutions.
• Adopt a positive, inclusive work environment where colleagues feel respected and valued for their contributions.
• Strive for high standards, seeks innovative solutions, drives continuous improvement of products and processes, and demonstrates a high degree of attention to detail.
• Highly numerate and computer literate (Microsoft Office), statistical software experience a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to meet critical deadlines.
• Previous experience dealing with multiple equipment vendors and managing multiple projects simultaneously.
   

Experiences that will support your success

• B.S. in Food Process Engineering, Agricultural & Biological Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Food Science, or related field looking to build a long-term career within R&D.
• Minimum of 2-8 years of experience in a CPG R&D or Manufacturing Role, confectionary experience a plus.
• This role is based in the Chicagoland area, but the candidate must be willing to work flexible hours on occasion (nights and weekends) and travel as necessary to internal and external facilities to support manufacturing line trials.
• Valid driving license is required.
• Availability to travel 10-40% of time and higher when required.