Extrusion Scientist - Decatur, IL

Archer Daniels Midland • Decatur, IL

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Extrusion Scientist II role is an independent technical contributor responsible for leading innovation in extrusion-based food systems, with a focus on plant-based proteins and ingredient functionality. This role owns projects from concept through commercialization, applying advanced food science and process engineering expertise to deliver scalable, high-quality solutions.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree with 3–5+ years of experience OR master’s degree in food science, Chemical Engineering, Food Engineering, or related field
• Proven experience with pilot or commercial extrusion systems (single and twin screw)
• Demonstrated expertise in protein texturization, plant-based systems, or complex food matrices
• Strong problem-solving, experimental design, and data analysis skills
• Ability to independently manage projects and influence cross-functional stakeholders
• Advanced extrusion processing, scale-up, and troubleshooting
• Experimental design, statistical analysis, and process optimization
• Strong understanding of thermomechanical processing and rheology
• Statistical analysis and experimental design (DOE, ANOVA, regression modeling)
• Ability to interpret complex multivariate datasets and process variability
• Deep knowledge of ingredient functionality (proteins, starches, fibers, lipids)
• Structure–function relationships in extruded food systems (texture, water binding, stability)
• Food formulation design for plant-based and protein-rich products
• Impact of processing conditions on sensory, nutritional, and functional attributes
• Food safety expertise (HACCP, GMP, allergen control, hygienic design)
• Project ownership and project execution excellence
• Cross-functional leadership and stakeholder influence
• Clear technical communication and documentation
• Mentorship and knowledge sharing

Nice To Haves

• 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.

Responsibilities

• Independently design, execute, and lead pilot-scale extrusion trials and experiments
• Manage R&D projects from concept through commercialization, ensuring timelines and technical deliverables are met
• Apply advanced understanding of ingredient functionality, formulation, and extrusion processing
• Analyze complex datasets and translate results into actionable insights and recommendations
• Provide troubleshooting process and scale-up support for manufacturing operations
• Conduct detailed product characterization (texture, rheology, structure-function relationships)
• Ensure full compliance with food safety, quality, and regulatory standards
• Lead technical communication with cross-functional teams (R&D, Operations, Commercial)
• Apply statistical tools (DOE, regression analysis, multivariate analysis) to design experiments, optimize processes and ensure robust, data-driven decision making
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to capability development
• Support capital projects and continuous improvement of pilot extrusion capabilities
• Champion safety culture and ensure adherence to lab and plant safety protocols

Benefits

• medical/Rx
• dental
• vision
• on-site wellness center access or gym reimbursement
• flexible spending accounts
• health savings account
• 401(k) with matching contributions and cash balance plan
• discounted employee stock purchasing program
• life insurance
• disability
• workers’ compensation
• legal assistance
• identity theft protection
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
• Colleague Giving Programs (ADM Cares)
• Paid time off
• paid holidays
• Adoption assistance
• paid maternity and parental leave
• Tuition assistance
• Company-sponsored training and development resources, such as LinkedIn Learning, language training and mentoring programs

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level