Associate Chemist

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

Job summary

Land O’Lakes is seeking an Associate Chemist to support laboratory quality, method development, and analytical testing for agricultural and animal feed customers. You will work with the Quality & Technical Supervisor to design experiments, troubleshoot processes, and ensure reliable results at the Winfield SureTech Laboratory near Indianapolis.

The role emphasizes safety, scientific excellence, and continuous improvement, with hands-on use of instruments such as HPLC/MS, ICP-OES, and NIR, as

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.

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.

Skills

Advanced Excel

Analytical problem-solving

Written and verbal communication

Independent and collaborative work

Laboratory techniques

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry

Biology

Biochemistry

Related scientific discipline

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.

If you need to submit a reasonable accommodation request to complete the employment application process, please call the HR Solution Center at 844-LOL-HR4U (844-565-4748) M-F 8:00am-4:30pm CT.