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Scientist III, Process Chemistry - Decatur, IL
Decatur, IL, USA
USD 79,500-132,500 / year
Posted on Oct 21, 2026
Scientist III, Process Chemistry – Decatur, IL
Decatur
IL - Illinois
Research & Development
Job Description
Scientist III , Process Chemistry – Decatur, IL
This is an exempt level position.
Position Summary:
The Research and Development organization has an opening for a Scientist III in the Process Chemistry group. This qualified candidate will be expected to carry out chemical process-related research projects within the ADM Research organization, located in Decatur, Illinois. Projects will relate to new and on-going product and process developments involving renewable feedstocks. The incumbent will interact with a broad range of functions, including production, engineering, other research interests, and ADM suppliers and contractors.
Responsibilities:
- Perform all job functions in accordance with company safety guidelines
- Scientists at this level will be expected to master the design, execution and documentation of complex experimental plans to evaluate and optimize diverse chemical processes
- Successful candidates will have demonstrated ability to design and run experiments including the selection of sampling procedures, analytical methods, and analytical analysis
- Ensure lab technicians, contract employees, and other co-workers comply with ADM laboratory standards
- Develop experimental plans with manager to accomplish project goals
- Master set up, maintenance, and operation of laboratory reactor systems and data-acquisition software for continuous, batch reactions and maintenance of analytical equipment.
- Generate, analyze and interpret data using scientific/statistical techniques
- Report on status of research activities through verbal updates, written reports, and presentations
- Construct and/or modify equipment according to experimental specifications and appropriate safety protocols
- Maintain proper housekeeping and observing safety standards
- Work within a diverse team and/or independently to evaluate, develop and transfer processes to pilot and scale up.
- Communicate with ADM colleagues, contractors, and suppliers, sending clear, appropriate and concise messages that express ideas, interpretations, and feedback
- Resolve conflicts effectively to encourage teamwork, without breaking cohesion and trust
- Work productively and efficiently by being organized, prepared and supporting and assisting fellow team members whenever necessary
- Participate in safety reviews with colleagues on a variety of projects
- Ph.D. in chemistry or MS with 5 years' experience or BS with 10 years' experience in organic chemistry and/or analytical chemistry or equivalent physical science degree
- Ability to design, set up, operate and maintain lab and pilot equipment
- Knowledge and experience with wide range of analytical instrumentation especially HPLC, GC, GC-MS, LC-MS, FT-IR, NMR, and UV-Vis
- Knowledge of safe hazardous material handling and hazardous communication requirements and procedures
- Working knowledge of Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Microsoft Office
- Ability to function independently while interacting with ADM management, facility management, and ADM contract employees
- Ability to troubleshoot and problem-solve in a team environment
- Effective writing and oral communication skills
- Strong organizational skills, and meticulous attention to detail
- Maintain confidential and highly sensitive information
- Affinity toward milestone-driven and performance-based environments
- Ability to sit at a desk and stand in the lab for extended periods as needed.
- Ability to use standard office equipment
- Physical requirements may include safely lifting and manipulating reactor systems up to 50 pounds, moving gas cylinders, and using hand and power tools
ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.
REF:114252BR
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:
$79,500 - $132,500
Salaried Incentive Plan
The total compensation package for this position will also include annual bonus
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
114252BR
#LI-Onsite
Ref ID
#LI-AS5