Associate Scientist - Food Science

Kemin Industries' Food Technologies business unit is a global biotechnology company specializing in over 500 specialty ingredients for human and animal health, pet food, aquaculture, nutraceuticals, food technologies, crop technologies, textiles, biofuels, and animal vaccines. With 3,500 employees and operations in 90 countries, Kemin is driven by curiosity and committed to transforming lives through innovative solutions.

Responsibilities

• Independently design and conduct food science experiments to develop new ingredients, formulations, and application solutions.
• Develop and evaluate ingredient functionality in relevant food systems, including performance, stability, sensory impact, and processing compatibility.
• Develop and review experimental protocols, application testing methods, SOPs, and safe work procedures for laboratory and pilot-scale activities.
• Conduct literature, patent, competitor technology reviews to guide ingredient innovation strategy and application development.
• Prepare technical reports, invention disclosures, internal publications, and external communications with appropriate guidance and review.
• Present research findings, application results, and technical recommendations to internal teams, customers, and external collaborators as needed.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with quality, regulatory, operations, sales, and marketing teams to support successful product development and commercialization.
• Identify and participate in external collaborations with suppliers, universities, customers, and technical partners to advance ingredient and application development.
• Provide technical guidance, training, and support to interns, junior scientists, and cross-functional team members.
• Maintain laboratory and instrument readiness by following proper operating procedures, calibration schedules, documentation practices, and routine maintenance requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's in Food Science, Chemistry, or Biochemistry with 7+ years of relevant industrial experience.
• Master's in Food Science, Chemistry, or Biochemistry with 3+ years of relevant industrial experience.
• Strong foundation in food science, ingredient functionality, food chemistry, and food processing.
• Hands-on experience developing ingredients, formulations, or food applications in relevant food systems.
• Experience designing experiments, developing testing protocols, collecting quality data, and maintaining laboratory or pilot-scale equipment.
• Detail-oriented, organized, and able to manage multiple projects, priorities, and timelines.
• Ability to analyze, interpret, and communicate experimental and product performance data.
• Strong scientific curiosity, practical problem-solving skills, and innovative thinking.
• Ability to translate scientific findings into practical ingredient or application solutions preferred.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and common data analysis tools.

Benefits

• Competitive Financial Package: Rewarding salary, uncapped bonus opportunities, 401k match program, and generous paid vacation and holidays.
• Health and Wellness Support: Fitness reimbursement for the whole family, access to an on-site fitness center, a restaurant offering seasonal fresh food options, and free fresh fruit in break areas.
• Career Development and Advancement: Opportunities for growth and development throughout your career.
• Continued Learning Opportunities: In-house learning platforms with thousands of training resources (live and online), and tuition reimbursement for external post-secondary pursuits.
• Service Opportunities: Paid time off for service, partnerships with The World Food Programme and Habitat for Humanity, and local community initiatives.