PPD Specialist
Apply now »Date: Apr 15, 2026
Location: Erlanger, KY, US, 41018
Company: Perfetti Van Melle
OVERVIEW
Perfetti Van Melle (makers of Mentos, Airheads, Dentyne, Trident and Bubblicious!) 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 PPD Specialist to join our growing team.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
The PPD Specialist provides technological support to existing production lines by participating in continuous improvement activities that promote quality, safety, process efficiency and compliance with objectives. Participates in the development of new products, presentations and/or modifications to existing ones for the national and export markets that meet the requirements of internal/external customers; regarding the attributes of quality, safety, that are feasible to manufacture at the lowest possible cost, taking care of unsafe acts and conditions and promoting the care of significant environmental aspects. Additional responsibilities include:
- Follow up on the process of developing new products, modifying existing processes, introducing new equipment or lines, and corporate projects.
- Organizes and carries out industrial tests to validate new raw materials or modifications to the process in conjunction with the areas involved: production, quality, maintenance, engineering, warehouse, SHER, etc. Generates the industrial and/or laboratory test report, distributes it and analyzes it together with the areas involved.
- Monitor the parameters of the production processes, the characteristics and quality of the products, statistically analyze and continuously validate the information and in case any modification is necessary, notify the Process and Development Technologist Sr. to make the modification with prior authorization from the Development Manager (RnD) and P&T Director.
- Participates in the analysis of production processes, identifies any issues, and proposes improvement solutions. Collaborates in preparing guidelines and operational instructions for the execution of production processes.
- Keeps the necessary information for manufacturing up to date: formula sheets, process parameters
- Participate in continuous improvement processes.
- Support laboratory-level testing.
- Along with the PPD Supervisor and PPD Manager, follow up on the process of developing new products.
- Supports coaching activities for production personnel in conjunction with the introduction of new products/processes.
WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU
- Bachelor's Degree Preferred
- A minimum of 2 years in a similar position in the Food Industry preferably
- Good Manufacturing Practices, HACCP, Food Defense, Food Fraud, Pest Control, Comprehensive Management System (ISO 9001, 14001, 22000, 45000) Statistical Process Control, Experimental Design, PDR System,
- General Knowledge of Standards, Office, Basic SAP (consultation),
- Integrated Management Systems, HACCP System Knowledge,
- Food-Focused Unit Operations Knowledge, Laboratory Analysis Methods (Bromatology)
- Ability to work alone or in team environment
- Excellent written, oral, interpersonal, and group communication skills.
- Ability to manage difficult and challenging situations.
- Demonstrated strengths in decision making, analytical and organizational skills.
- Ability to support PPD in daily operations as needed.
WHAT WE OFFER
At Perfetti Van Melle, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive 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)
Join a 2024 NKY Best Workplace by applying today!
Perfetti Van Melle, USA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action 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.
Nearest Major Market: Cincinnati