Job Description

OVERVIEW

Perfetti Van Melle (makers of Mentos and Airheads!) is one of the world's largest manufacturers and distributors of confectionery and chewing gum with global brands that are being enjoyed in more than 150 countries worldwide. We’re currently seeking a passionate and enthusiastic (Sr.) Process and Product Development Engineer to join our Rockford Production team.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

The (Sr.) Process and Product Development Engineer plays a key role in improving how we make our products — from early testing to full production. This role focuses on developing new processes, scaling up new products, and finding ways to make our manufacturing lines run better, faster, and with less waste. You will work closely with R&D, Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, Regulatory, and Marketing teams, both in the U.S. and globally. This position requires a mix of technical expertise, problem solving, and collaboration to support, high-quality results.

• Lead product and process development — from trials to factory production ensuring products meet performance, quality, and cost goals.
• Plan and run product trials, analyze data, and share clear recommendations based on results.
• Commission and validate new equipment, working with Engineering and suppliers to make sure installations meet performance standards.
• Improve production performance by increasing line efficiency, reducing waste, and boosting equipment reliability.
• Work with suppliers to qualify ingredients, identify alternatives, and reduce material or sourcing risks.
• Partner with Quality and Regulatory to ensure recipes meet all food safety and labeling requirements.
• Translate data and results into reliable processes and set clear product quality limits that match production capabilities.
• Support troubleshooting efforts in the plant when production issues arise.
• Coach and develop plant colleagues to build technical capability and onboarding new employees when needed.
• Share insights and influence decisions by explaining technical results and business impact to cross-functional partners.

WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Engineering, Chemistry, Biology, or a related field.
• 5–10+ years of experience in process or product engineering, preferably in food or consumer goods manufacturing.
• Hands-on experience with equipment commissioning, system optimization, and continuous improvement tools (SPC, data analysis, etc.).
• Working knowledge of ingredient functionality and food manufacturing standards (GMP, sanitation, regulatory).
• Skilled in Excel, PowerPoint, Project, and Teams; certifications such as CFS, HACCP, or CI are a plus.
• Strong communicator with proven ability to lead projects, collaborate across teams, and deliver results under tight timelines.
• Professional, proactive, and solution-oriented; comfortable balancing strategic and hands-on work.
• Curious, analytical, and driven to improve processes.
• Able to travel as needed and lift up to 50 lbs.

WHAT WE OFFER

At Perfetti Van Melle, we are committed to fostering a welcoming workplace, where all individuals, regardless of background or identity, are valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives to the sweet success of our candy-loving community. Additionally, we have a core value of Care For Our People and we are proud to offer benefit programs that support our team members' goals and well-being including:

• PTO package including vacation, sick, personal, and pay it forward time off
• 13 paid holidays
• 401k with Company Match up to 8%, ranking in the top 1% of the country
• Annual Bonus potential and merit-based increases
• Comprehensive Health Insurance
• Annual well-being subsidy
• 20 weeks Maternity & 12 weeks Paternity leave options
• Sam's Club or Costco annual membership reimbursement
• Tuition-Free College Program or Free Continued Education (BA, Masters, etc.)
• Modest monthly candy allotment (Airheads, Airheads Xtremes, and Mentos)
  

The anticipated target range for this role is: $85,000-115,000 per year.

Position level may be elevated to Senior Process Engineer based on experience and qualifications.

Perfetti Van Melle considers a variety of factors when determining base compensation, including experience, qualifications, and geographic location. These considerations mean actual compensation will vary.

Perfetti Van Melle, USA is an equal opportunity/non-discrimination employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.