Innovation Scientist

Sensient Technologies Corporation; Hoffman Estates (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

401(k) and stock plans

Professional development

On-site lab access

Career growth opportunities

Team collaboration

Job summary

Sensient Technologies Corporation's BioNutrients division seeks an Innovation Scientist to support New Product Development and Biological Process Improvement. You will work with senior scientists to conduct experiments, document results, and contribute to process optimization.

The role is on site in the Hoffman Estates, IL area, focusing on fermentation, enzymatic reactions, and analytical measurements (e.g., HPLC).

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biology, or a related scientific discipline.
• 1–5 years of experience in a laboratory research setting.
• Demonstrated experience with fermentation, enzymatic reactions, and analytical instruments like HPLC.
• Strong laboratory technique and attention to detail.
• Ability to execute experiments independently while following established protocols.

Responsibilities

• Execute laboratory experiments and process trials designed by senior scientists.
• Prepare media, reagents, and samples following established protocols.
• Perform routine laboratory analyses using analytical techniques as needed (e.g., spectrophotometry, pH, microscopy).
• Accurately document experimental procedures, observations, and results, and analyze data to draw conclusions.
• Participate in project meetings and communicate experimental progress and findings to internal and external stakeholders.
• Manage laboratory inventory, including ordering chemicals, consumables, and laboratory supplies.

Skills

Fermentation

HPLC

Analytical testing

Lab techniques

Documentation

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Microbiology/related field

Tools

HPLC

Job description

Overview

At Sensient BioNutrients, we develop and manufacture yeast and plant-derived extracts for use in Human, Plant and Animal Nutrition applications.

We are seeking an Innovation Scientist to help support the BioNutrients Division in the areas of New Product Development and Biological Process Improvement. This role works closely with senior scientists to conduct experimental work, maintain laboratory operations, perform analytical testing, and ensure accurate documentation of results.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute laboratory experiments and process trials designed by senior scientists.
• Prepare media, reagents, and samples following established protocols.
• Perform routine laboratory analyses using analytical techniques as needed (e.g., spectrophotometry, pH, microscopy).
• Accurately document experimental procedures, observations, and results, and analyze data to draw conclusions.
• Participate in project meetings and communicate experimental progress and findings to internal and external stakeholders.
• Manage laboratory inventory, including ordering chemicals, consumables, and laboratory supplies.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biology, or a related scientific discipline.
• 1–5 years of experience in a laboratory research setting.
• Demonstrated experience with fermentation, enzymatic reactions, and analytical instruments like HPLC.
• Strong laboratory technique and attention to detail.
• Ability to execute experiments independently while following established protocols.
• Team-oriented mindset with a commitment to scientific excellence and continuous improvement.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

Benefits

• A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including 401(k), stock purchase plans, and more, designed to support your financial and personal well‑being.
• Access to ongoing professional development with a thorough onboarding process and continuous training opportunities to help you grow in your career.
• The chance to be part of a team that values creativity, curiosity, and practical innovation.
• A culture that encourages you to take ownership of your work and make an impact.
• Opportunities to engage with global teams and build meaningful relationships across disciplines.
• This position is based on site at our location, where hands‑on work, in‑person collaboration, and access to specialized equipment are key to success.

About Sensient

Sensient Technologies Corporation is a leading global manufacturer and marketer of colors, flavors, and extracts. Sensient employs advanced technologies at facilities around the world to develop specialty food and beverage systems, cosmetic and pharmaceutical systems, specialty colors, and other specialty and fine chemicals. The Company’s customers include major international manufacturers representing most of the world’s best‑known brands.

Sensient Global BioNutrients provides a broad portfolio of consistent, innovative, and tailored nutrient solutions to meet your diverse application needs and deliver value through improved productivity, processing time and product performance.

The salary range for this position is $70,000 - $75,000 USD. Pay within the range is based on several factors, which may include, but are not limited to, education, work experience, specialized training, and labor market conditions. In addition to salary, Sensient is proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits program to support the holistic well‑being of our employees and their families.

Sensient is an Equal Opportunity Employer, headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.