Associate Chemist

Land O'Lakes, Inc.; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 61,000 - 92,000; Full time

Job summary

The Associate Chemist at Land O'Lakes, Inc. supports laboratory quality, method development, process improvement, and analytical testing activities at the Winfield United SureTech Laboratory near the Indianapolis International Airport.

You will execute experimental designs, investigate quality concerns, and assist in calibration, SOP maintenance, and data reporting using HPLC/MS, ICP-OES, and NIR, contributing to safety, accuracy, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline is required.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are essential.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Execute experimental designs and technical projects as directed by the Quality & Technical supervisor.
• Investigate identified quality issues and assist in corrective action and root cause investigations.
• Support laboratory equipment maintenance, calibration activities, and basic troubleshooting of analytical instrumentation.
• Perform laboratory testing using techniques including HPLC/MS, ICP, NIR, colorimetric and gravimetric assays.
• Analyze, interpret, document, and communicate experimental findings and technical data to leadership and colleagues.
• Maintain SOPs and work instructions; participate in Lean Six Sigma and SPC initiatives.
• Maintain records and support regulatory compliance and QC activities.
• Maintain proficiency with LIMS and data analysis tools.

Skills

Advanced Excel

Analytical problem solving

Written and verbal communication

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry/Biology/Biochemistry or related

Tools

HPLC/MS

ICP-OES

NIR

LIMS

Job description

Associate Chemist

The Associate Chemist supports laboratory quality, method development, process improvement, and analytical testing activities. This position works closely with the Quality & Technical Supervisor to execute experimental designs, troubleshoot laboratory processes, investigate quality concerns, and support analytical services for agricultural and animal feed industry customers. In this role, you will contribute to a culture of safety, scientific excellence, and continuous improvement while ensuring reliable and accurate laboratory results. This role is located on-site at our Winfield United SureTech Laboratory at 7501 Miles Drive near the Indianapolis International Airport.

Essential Responsibilities

• Execute experimental designs and technical projects as directed by the Quality & Technical supervisor.
• Investigate identified quality issues and assist in corrective action and root cause investigations.
• Support laboratory equipment maintenance, calibration activities, and basic troubleshooting of analytical instrumentation.
• Perform laboratory testing using a variety of analytical techniques, including HPLC/MS, ICP, NIR, colorimetric assays, gravimetric assays, and other assigned methodologies.
• Analyze, interpret, document, and communicate experimental findings and technical data to laboratory leadership and colleagues.
• Assist in the development, review, and maintenance of laboratory Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and work instructions.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives utilizing Lean Six Sigma, Statistical Process Control (SPC), and other process improvement tools.
• Maintain accurate records and support quality system requirements, laboratory certifications, and regulatory compliance activities.
• Maintain proficiency with laboratory software systems, including LIMS and data analysis tools.
• Follow all laboratory safety procedures and contribute to a safe, organized, and efficient work environment.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
• Advanced Excel knowledge
• Strong laboratory and analytical problem‑solving skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

Preferred

• Experience operating analytical instrumentation such as HPLC/MS, ICP‑OES, NIR, or related technologies.
• Experience with quality systems, root cause investigations, and corrective action processes.
• Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
• Knowledge of statistical analysis, data interpretation, and continuous improvement methodologies.

Key Competencies

• Scientific curiosity and analytical thinking
• Attention to detail
• Continuous improvement mindset
• Technical troubleshooting skills
• Customer focus
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Commitment to safety and quality

$61,360-$92,040. In most cases, candidates offered employment can expect to be hired at a pay rate near the middle of our salary ranges.

About Land O'Lakes, Inc.

Join us and be part of a Fortune 250, farmer- and member‑owned cooperative that is reimagining the business of food. We have been named a Top Workplace by Indeed and LinkedIn, and to the TIME 100 Most Influential Companies list. We provide a broad portfolio of benefits to keep you and your family at your best. Land O'Lakes is Where Your Future Takes Root. Land O’Lakes and our global entities support diversity in employment practices. Land O’Lakes is a Fortune 250, farmer‑owned agriculture and food manufacturing cooperative. We are headquartered just outside the Twin Cities, with locations across the US and a presence in 60 countries around the world.