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Scientist 1 Enzyme Downstream Processing - Decatur, IL
Full-time
Decatur, IL, USA
USD 49k-91k / year
Posted on Sep 16, 2026
Scientist 1 Enzyme Downstream Processing - Decatur, IL
Decatur
IL - Illinois
Research & Development
Job Description
Scientist 1 Enzyme Downstream Processing - Decatur, IL
This is a full time, exempt position.
ADM has an opening for a Scientist I – Enzyme Downstream Processing, in the Process Chemistry and Catalysis Team at our Corporate Research Center located in Decatur, IL
Position Summary
We are looking for an enzyme downstream processing scientist to assist in the development and execution of enzyme process development. Experience with enzyme or protein purification, downstream processing, and basic biochemical techniques is required; experience with microbial cultures, enzyme fermentation broths and/or enzyme assay is highly desired.
The successful applicant will assist in laboratory-scale process development activities for enzyme production, recovery, purification, and characterization. Under the direction of a Manager, Project Leader, or Senior Scientist, the Scientist I - Enzyme Downstream Processing will support downstream processing experimental design, execute bench-scale to pilot scale studies, analyze process and assay data, and contribute to the translation of processes toward pilot and production scale.
This role requires close collaboration with fermentation, pilot plant, analytical, strain development, and plant operations to develop robust new enzyme processes and support existing plant processes. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, hands-on in the laboratory, and capable of following established protocols while contributing to troubleshooting and process improvement efforts.
Job Responsibilities
- Perform all job functions in accordance with safety guidelines and ensure that lab and pilot colleagues follow ADM laboratory and safety standards
- Generate data and/or material to support enzyme process development programs to advance our product pipeline
- Assist in the development of robust and scalable enzyme downstream processes, performing routine maintenance and troubleshooting equipment as needed
- Provide feedback to biotechnology and strain development teams to accomplish project goals
- Develop experimental plans with a lead scientist to accomplish project goals
- Generate and analyze data using scientific, statistical techniques, and document results effectively
- Communicate research status updates verbally and through written reports and presentations
- Construct and/or modify equipment according to experimental specifications and appropriate safety protocols
- Work both independently and within a diverse team of scientists, engineers, and operators
- Collaborate and interface with colleagues in Process Chemistry and Catalysis, Pilot Plant, Fermentation, Microbial Strain Development and Plant Operations
- Participate in safety reviews with colleagues on a variety of projects
- Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Biological or Chemical Engineering, or related field
- Knowledge and experience with lab-scale enzyme downstream processing is required (including clarification, filtration, concentration, buffer exchange)
- Troubleshooting downstream processing related problems and experience with pilot scale enzyme downstream processing (>100 L) is a plus
- Ability to execute scientific experiments and document results in an ELN environment
- Ability to acquire and interpret scientific data and apply conclusions to enzyme processing
- Knowledge of safe hazardous material handling and hazardous communication requirements and procedures
- Experience using Microsoft Office software, including Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, and Outlook
- Ability to function independently while interacting with leadership, facility management, and colleagues
- Ability to troubleshoot and solve problems in a team environment
- Effective writing and verbal communication skills, strong organizational skills, and meticulous attention to detail
- Ability to safely lift and manipulate downstream processing equipment or other equipment up to 50 pounds and use hand and power tools
Excited about this role but don’t think you meet every requirement listed? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings.
ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.
REF:113111BR
ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.
REF:113111BR
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:
$49,000.00 - $91,000.00
Benefits and Perks
Enriching the quality of life for the world begins by taking care of our colleagues. In addition to competitive pay, we support your diverse needs with a comprehensive total rewards package to enhance your well-being, including:
- Physical wellness – medical/Rx, dental, vision and on-site wellness center access or gym reimbursement (as applicable).
- Financial wellness – flexible spending accounts, health savings account, 401(k) with matching contributions and cash balance plan, discounted employee stock purchasing program, life insurance, disability, workers’ compensation, legal assistance, identity theft protection.
- Mental and social wellness – Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Colleague Giving Programs (ADM Cares).
- Paid time off including paid holidays.
- Adoption assistance and paid maternity and parental leave.
- Tuition assistance.
- Company-sponsored training and development resources, such as LinkedIn Learning, language training and mentoring programs.
#IncludingYou
Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are cornerstones of ADM’s efforts to continue innovating, driving growth, and delivering outstanding performance. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and create welcoming, truly inclusive work environments — environments that enable every ADM colleague to feel comfortable on the job, make meaningful contributions to our success, and grow their career. We respect and value the unique backgrounds and experiences that each person can bring to ADM because we know that diversity of perspectives makes us better, together.
We welcome everyone to apply. We are committed to ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, language, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law
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.
Req/Job ID
113111BR
#LI-Onsite
Ref ID
#LI-DR3