ADM

Extrusion Scientist - Decatur, IL

ADM$80K — $100K *
Food & Beverages
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree with 3-5+ years of experience or a master's in food science or related field
  • Proven experience with pilot or commercial extrusion systems
  • Expertise in protein texturization or complex food matrices
  • Strong problem-solving and data analysis skills
  • Ability to independently manage projects and influence stakeholders

Responsibilities

  • Design and execute pilot-scale extrusion trials
  • Manage R&D projects from concept to commercialization
  • Analyze complex datasets for actionable insights
  • Provide troubleshooting support for manufacturing
  • Conduct product characterization focusing on texture and rheology
  • Lead technical communication with cross-functional teams
  • Mentor junior scientists and support project capabilities

Benefits

  • Encouragement to apply even if you don't meet all requirements
  • Supportive work environment fostering career growth and mentorship
  • Opportunities for continuing education and development
  • Focus on safety culture and adherence to best practices
  • Involvement in innovative projects and cutting-edge food technology
Full Job Description
Job Description

Extrusion Scientist - Decatur, IL

Position Summary
Extrusion Scientist II role is an independent technical contributor responsible for leading innovation in extrusion-based food systems, with a focus on plant-based proteins and ingredient functionality. This role owns projects from concept through commercialization, applying advanced food science and process engineering expertise to deliver scalable, high-quality solutions.

Key Responsibilities
  • Independently design, execute, and lead pilot-scale extrusion trials and experiments
  • Manage R&D projects from concept through commercialization, ensuring timelines and technical deliverables are met
  • Apply advanced understanding of ingredient functionality, formulation, and extrusion processing
  • Analyze complex datasets and translate results into actionable insights and recommendations
  • Provide troubleshooting process and scale-up support for manufacturing operations
  • Conduct detailed product characterization (texture, rheology, structure-function relationships)
  • Ensure full compliance with food safety, quality, and regulatory standards
  • Lead technical communication with cross-functional teams (R&D, Operations, Commercial)
  • Apply statistical tools (DOE, regression analysis, multivariate analysis) to design experiments, optimize processes and ensure robust, data-driven decision making
  • Mentor junior scientists and contribute to capability development
  • Support capital projects and continuous improvement of pilot extrusion capabilities
  • Champion safety culture and ensure adherence to lab and plant safety protocols
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree with 3-5+ years of experience OR master's degree in food science, Chemical Engineering, Food Engineering, or related field
  • Proven experience with pilot or commercial extrusion systems (single and twin screw)
  • Demonstrated expertise in protein texturization, plant-based systems, or complex food matrices
  • Strong problem-solving, experimental design, and data analysis skills
  • Ability to independently manage projects and influence cross-functional stakeholders
Core Competencies
Technical & Engineering
  • Advanced extrusion processing, scale-up, and troubleshooting
  • Experimental design, statistical analysis, and process optimization
  • Strong understanding of thermomechanical processing and rheology
  • Statistical analysis and experimental design (DOE, ANOVA, regression modeling)
  • Ability to interpret complex multivariate datasets and process variability
Food Science (Critical Competency)
  • Deep knowledge of ingredient functionality (proteins, starches, fibers, lipids)
  • Structure-function relationships in extruded food systems (texture, water binding, stability)
  • Food formulation design for plant-based and protein-rich products
  • Impact of processing conditions on sensory, nutritional, and functional attributes
  • Food safety expertise (HACCP, GMP, allergen control, hygienic design)
Professional Skills
  • Project ownership and project execution excellence
  • Cross-functional leadership and stakeholder influence
  • Clear technical communication and documentation
  • Mentorship and knowledge sharing

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.

REF:110390BR

The pay range for this position is expected to be between:

About ADM

Archer Daniels Midland Company offers food ingredients, animal feeds and feed ingredients, biofuels, and other products. ADM transforms natural products into a complete portfolio of ingredients and flavors for foods and beverages, supplements, nutrition for pets and livestock, and more. It was formed in 1902 and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.

ADM Careers

There has never been a more exciting time to explore the job opportunities at ADM, a global leader in nutrition and agricultural processing. As a company committed to growth, innovation, and sustainability, ADM offers a unique platform for professionals to advance their careers in a dynamic and supportive environment. Work You’ll Do Join ADM’s industry-leading team to help address some of the most pressing challenges of our time, from food production to sustainable energy. At ADM, you can transform industries and foster a healthier future, leveraging our global scale and deep industry expertise. Lead with Innovation and Leadership At ADM, you are positioned to lead at the nexus of agricultural expertise and cutting-edge innovation. Our leadership in the market is driven by our commitment to innovation and diversity, ensuring that we meet global demands sustainably and efficiently. Engage with a Global Team Collaborate with over 33,000 dedicated professionals around the world who are united in their passion for delivering results and making a meaningful impact. ADM’s culture fosters a collaborative and inclusive workplace where diverse ideas lead to extraordinary outcomes. Introducing the ADM Professional Growth Pathways We are dedicated to nurturing the professional growth of our employees through unmatched training, leadership development programs, and diversity training. ADM’s commitment to professional development ensures that your career is future-proof, allowing you to evolve with the industry and our company. Do Meaningful Work Engage in work that matters with a team that values innovation and practical solutions. At ADM, your efforts contribute directly to creating a more secure and sustainable world, from improving global food supply chains to pioneering new bio-solutions. Be Part of a Great Team Experience the power of teamwork at ADM, where our collaborative environment is enhanced by diverse perspectives and a shared commitment to excellence. Our team’s unparalleled capabilities in agribusiness drive our ability to meet the needs of a growing world. Explore Career Opportunities From internships to full-time positions, ADM offers a variety of entry points for individuals at all stages of their careers. Whether you’re refining your skills or ready to lead, find the position that matches your career ambitions at ADM. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We look for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players who are ready to make a difference. SEARCH ADM JOBS Keep Up to Date Stay informed with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts, the latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await you at ADM.
Learn more about ADM
Size
41,000 employees
Market Cap
$52 billion
Industry
Net Income
$1.7 billion
Founded
1902
5 Year Trend
+6.5%
Revenue
$64.3 billion
NASDAQ

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