ADM

Protein Research Manager - Decatur, IL

ADM$90K — $120K *
Food & Beverages
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • M.S. or Ph.D. in Food Science, Food Engineering, or a related field
  • 5+ years of experience in plant protein research
  • Strong expertise in ingredient development through to commercial scale-up
  • Deep understanding of structure-function relationships in plant proteins, particularly soy and/or pea
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
  • Strong project management capabilities with a proactive mindset

Responsibilities

  • Lead discovery and development of scalable protein solutions for the food industry
  • Drive protein portfolio diversification projects aligned with ADM's Specialty Ingredients strategy
  • Manage and mentor scientists while collaborating with stakeholders on protein optimization
  • Develop and refine analytical methodologies for ingredient characterization
  • Lead competitive intelligence initiatives for protein ingredients
  • Collaborate cross-functionally to accelerate innovation
  • Manage external research collaborations for protein innovation and growth

Benefits

  • Relocation assistance to Decatur, IL available if needed
  • Complete benefit package including 401K/ESOP, pension, health, life, vision, and dental insurance
Full Job Description
Job Description

Manager, Protein Research - Decatur, IL

We are seeking a highly skilled Protein Research Manager to lead ingredient development and optimization while collaborating with cross-functional teams and external partners to drive open innovation and support growth in protein nutrition solutions.

In this role, you will play a critical part in advancing ADM's research and development efforts in plant-based ingredients. Your primary responsibilities will include leading new protein ingredient development projects, driving structure-function characterization, and executing optimization and productivity initiatives to achieve commercial success.

This position reports to the Global R&D Director for Alternative Proteins within the Human Nutrition Research team. It is based on-site in Decatur, IL, and may require up to 15-25% travel.

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead and advise on the discovery and development of scalable protein solutions for the food industry
  • Drive and execute projects focused on protein portfolio diversification aligned with ADM's Specialty Ingredients strategy
  • Manage and mentor scientists while collaborating with internal and external stakeholders on the development, analysis, and optimization of protein solutions
  • Develop and refine structure-function analytical methodologies for ingredient characterization
  • Lead and execute competitive intelligence initiatives for protein ingredients
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, analytical and sensory teams, formulators, as well as regulatory, marketing, and commercial functions to accelerate innovation
  • Manage external research collaborations to support the protein innovation and growth pipeline
  • Develop and execute CAPEX plans for the protein R&D team
  • Support internal and external training programs related to protein ingredients
  • Lead initiatives to expand R&D analytical capabilities for Specialized Nutrition and Savory markets
  • Champion laboratory safety by ensuring compliance with safety protocols, documentation and training
  • Utilize R&D project management systems and ensure clear stakeholder communication
Qualifications
Education & Experience
  • M.S. or Ph.D. in Food Science, Food Engineering, or a related field
  • 5+ years of experience in plant protein research
Technical Expertise
  • Strong expertise in ingredient development, from bench scale through pilot and commercial scale-up
  • Deep understanding of structure-function relationships in plant proteins (preferable soy and/or pea)
  • Experience translating techno-functional properties of protein ingredients into food applications
Other Skills & Attributes
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to collaborate across functions
  • Strong project management capabilities, including leading multiple initiatives and managing teams
  • Proactive, results-driven mindset with a passion for innovation and problem-solving
Employee Perks and Benefits:
  • Relocation assistance to Decatur IL is available with this position if needed.
  • This position offers a complete benefit package, including 401K/ESOP, pension, health, life, vision, and dental insurance.

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:108435BR

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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