Protein Research Manager - Decatur, IL

Archer Daniels Midland • Decatur, IL

1d • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly skilled Protein Research Manager to lead ingredient development and optimization while collaborating with cross-functional teams and external partners to drive open innovation and support growth in protein nutrition solutions. In this role, you will play a critical part in advancing ADM’s research and development efforts in plant-based ingredients. Your primary responsibilities will include leading new protein ingredient development projects, driving structure–function characterization, and executing optimization and productivity initiatives to achieve commercial success. This position reports to the Global R&D Director for Alternative Proteins within the Human Nutrition Research team. It is based on-site in Decatur, IL, and may require up to 15-25% travel.

Requirements

• M.S. or Ph.D. in Food Science, Food Engineering, or a related field
• 5+ years of experience in plant protein research
• Strong expertise in ingredient development, from bench scale through pilot and commercial scale-up
• Deep understanding of structure–function relationships in plant proteins (preferable soy and/or pea)
• Experience translating techno-functional properties of protein ingredients into food applications
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to collaborate across functions
• Strong project management capabilities, including leading multiple initiatives and managing teams
• Proactive, results-driven mindset with a passion for innovation and problem-solving

Nice To Haves

• preferable soy and/or pea

Responsibilities

• Lead and advise on the discovery and development of scalable protein solutions for the food industry
• Drive and execute projects focused on protein portfolio diversification aligned with ADM’s Specialty Ingredients strategy
• Manage and mentor scientists while collaborating with internal and external stakeholders on the development, analysis, and optimization of protein solutions
• Develop and refine structure–function analytical methodologies for ingredient characterization
• Lead and execute competitive intelligence initiatives for protein ingredients
• Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, analytical and sensory teams, formulators, as well as regulatory, marketing, and commercial functions to accelerate innovation
• Manage external research collaborations to support the protein innovation and growth pipeline
• Develop and execute CAPEX plans for the protein R&D team
• Support internal and external training programs related to protein ingredients
• Lead initiatives to expand R&D analytical capabilities for Specialized Nutrition and Savory markets
• Champion laboratory safety by ensuring compliance with safety protocols, documentation and training
• Utilize R&D project management systems and ensure clear stakeholder communication

Benefits

• Relocation assistance to Decatur IL is available with this position if needed.
• 401K/ESOP
• pension
• health, life, vision, and dental insurance.
• 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 including paid holidays.
• Adoption assistance and 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: Manager
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees