Lead Chocolatier - De Pere - Seroogy's Chocolates

Description

About Seroogy's Chocolates

Founded in 1899, Seroogy's Chocolates is a fourth-generation, family-owned Wisconsin tradition known for small-batch craftsmanship, classic recipes, and exceptional quality. We proudly produce handmade confections that have become part of generations of family traditions across the Midwest. As we continue to grow, we are looking for a skilled confectioner who can honor our heritage while driving innovation for the future.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced, hands-on Lead Chocolatier & Product Development Manager to lead all aspects of confectionery creation and quality at Seroogy's Chocolates. This role safeguards our signature recipes, oversees chocolate and ingredient ordering, ensures consistent product quality, and develops new seasonal and year-round products.

This position blends technical expertise, creativity, and a passion for traditional small-batch methods. You'll collaborate closely with our Production Manager, Retail Manager, and company leadership to maintain the excellence our customers expect, while also shaping the next generation of Seroogy's products.

Key Responsibilities

Recipe Stewardship & Production Oversight

• Maintain and consistently execute Seroogy's established recipes, processes, and product standards.
• Train and support team members in confectionery techniques and product specifications.
• Serve as the subject-matter expert for chocolate tempering, caramelization, enrobing, panning, and other confectionery methods.
• Partner with the Production Manager to ensure daily production runs meet quality, yield, and efficiency goals.

Technical Expertise & Equipment Mastery

• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot a wide range of confectionery and chocolate production equipment, including: melters, tempering machines, enrobers, copper kettles/stoves, batch cookers, cooling tables, depositors, cutters, panners, wrapping machines, and other specialized tools.
• Ensure equipment is used safely, efficiently, and in alignment with Seroogy's product standards.
• Evaluate and introduce new equipment, technologies, or processes that increase quality and productivity without compromising craftsmanship or tradition.
• Work closely with the Production Manager to optimize workflows, implement improvements, and ensure smooth integration of new processes into daily operations.

Product Development & Innovation

• Lead the creation of seasonal, limited-edition, and core new products that align with the Seroogy's brand and customer expectations.
• Develop prototypes, run test batches, and manage sensory evaluations.
• Research emerging confectionery trends, ingredients, and technologies to inspire new ideas.
• Collaborate with leadership on launch timelines, packaging needs, pricing strategy, and marketing initiatives.
• Maintain strong product pipeline and market presence.

Quality Control

• Oversee product quality from raw ingredients to finished goods.
• Establish and maintain QC protocols including product specs, batch reviews, and shelf-life assessments.
• Troubleshoot inconsistencies or production challenges in real time.
• Continuously identify opportunities to improve yield, reduce waste, and enhance consistency.

Ingredient & Chocolate Procurement

• Order chocolate, inclusions, flavorings, packaging components tied to confectionery production, and other necessary materials.
• Manage supplier relationships and evaluate new vendors or ingredients as needed.
• Monitor inventory levels to avoid shortages while controlling costs.

Cross-Department Collaboration

• Coordinate with the Retail Manager to ensure packing, finishing, and special gift items meet quality standards.
• Work with the Shipping and Production teams to align schedules, capacity, and special production requests.
• Communicate clearly with leadership on production trends, new product opportunities, and operational improvements.

Qualifications

Required

• 3–7+ years of professional experience in confectionery, chocolate production, pastry, or food manufacturing.
• Demonstrated expertise in chocolate work (tempering, molding, enrobing, hand-dipping) and at least three major confection types (caramel, creams, truffles, barks, brittles, etc.).
• Hands-on experience with key confectionery and chocolate equipment: melters, tempering machines, enrobers, copper kettles/stoves, batch cookers, cooling tables, depositors, wrapping machines, and related production tools.
• Strong technical understanding of chocolate crystallization, viscosity, batch scaling, and the variables that impact product quality.
• Ability to troubleshoot equipment, identify process improvements, and introduce new methods or tools while preserving product quality.
• Ability to manage complex projects and timelines.
• Strong understanding of food safety standards, allergens, and manufacturing best practices.
• Proven ability to develop and scale new products from concept to production.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, communication skills, and a detail-oriented, quality-driven mindset.

Preferred

• Experience in a small-batch, artisanal, or heritage brand environment.
• Familiarity with equipment scaling—from benchtop R&D tools to larger factory systems.
• A personal philosophy that balances craftsmanship, innovation, and respect for traditional methods.
• Experience leading or mentoring production staff.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to carry forward a 126-year Wisconsin legacy.
• A collaborative, supportive team environment committed to craftsmanship and quality.
• Competitive compensation and benefits.
• A hands-on role in a business rooted in family, tradition, and community.
• Chocolate. Lots and lots of chocolate.

How to Apply

• Please send your résumé, salary requirements, portfolio of past confectionery work (if available), and a brief note sharing why you'd be a great fit for Seroogy's Chocolates to