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Scientist I, Benchtop Fermentation - Decatur, IL
Job Description: Scientist I, Benchtop Fermentation - Decatur, IL ADM Research & Development Exempt-Level Position
Position Summary ADM is seeking a Scientist I, Benchtop Fermentation to support fermentation research and development at the 7.5 L scale. This role will contribute to the validation of new production strains, as well as the scale-up and scale-down of fermentation processes. The team focuses on optimizing and troubleshooting fermentation methods across yeast, bacterial, and fungal systems, with responsibilities that may include microbial identification, sample analysis, data interpretation, and process improvement. The successful candidate will follow experimental plans, operate and maintain fermentation systems, troubleshoot process and equipment issues, contribute to continuous improvement in fermentation execution, safety, documentation, and laboratory operations. This position requires strong aseptic technique, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative R&D environment.
Job Responsibilities • Execute benchtop fermentation experiments at the 7.5 L scale in support of R&D projects. • Follow experimental protocols, standard operating procedures, and safety requirements to ensure consistent, high-quality execution. • Set up, operate, monitor, and clean fermentation and related laboratory equipment. • Record experimental conditions, process data, observations, deviations, and results accurately in batch records, experimental summaries, or other required documentation. • Apply aseptic techniques to prevent or reduce contamination risk. • Troubleshoot fermentation processes, equipment, and operational issues; recommend and implement corrective actions as appropriate. • Support development, improvement, and documentation of fermentation protocols, SOPs, and Job Safety Analyses. • Perform basic maintenance and routine checks on fermentation and laboratory analytical equipment. • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory workspace, including inventory management of supplies and materials. • Interpret experimental results, draw conclusions, and provide recommendations to the project technical lead. • Communicate progress, issues, and results effectively with technical leaders, project teams, and cross-functional stakeholders. • Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives related to fermentation operations, process efficiency, data quality, and laboratory safety. Required Qualifications • Bachelor’s degree in fermentation science, microbiology, biochemical engineering, biotechnology, biology, chemistry, or a related field; or 2–3 years of hands-on fermentation experience. • Ability to execute detailed experimental protocols with accuracy and consistency. • Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and commitment to laboratory safety. • Effective written and verbal communication skills. • Ability to work collaboratively in a team-based, multidisciplinary environment. • Self-motivated with the ability to manage tasks, priorities, and timelines. • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and work comfortably in a pilot laboratory environment. Preferred Qualifications • Hands-on experience operating, troubleshooting, and maintaining benchtop fermentation equipment. • Experience with industrial biotechnology, microbial fermentation, or bioprocess development. • Familiarity with aseptic processing, media preparation, sterilization, sampling, and fermentation process monitoring. • Experience contributing to scale-up, technology transfer, or process improvement efforts. • Demonstrated ability to support projects that deliver technical and business value.
: Before applying for an exempt, non-exempt or hourly job opportunity, you are expected to initiate a discussion and share your intentions with your supervisor. * If you’ve been in your current position for more than 18 months, supervisor approval is not required. * If you’ve been in your current position for less than 18 months, verbal supervisor approval is required. Hiring Manager- Adam Fornear Recruiter- Dana Richter
: About ADM
At ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry-advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We’re a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world’s premier agricultural origination and processing company. Our breadth, depth, insights, facilities and logistical expertise give us unparalleled capabilities to meet needs for food, beverages, health and wellness, and more. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we enrich the quality of life the world over. Learn more at www.adm.com.
: Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours.
If hired, employees will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.
The pay range for this position is expected to be between: