R&D Associate Scientist - Analytical Sciences

Mars • Chicago, IL

1d • $67,207 - $92,410

About The Position

The R&D Associate Scientist – Analytical Sciences generates analytical insights that support product innovation, quality growth, operational excellence, and sustainability across the Mars Snacking portfolio. In a collaborative laboratory environment, the role conducts testing on ingredients, materials, processes, and finished products, and partners with cross-functional teams to solve technical challenges and support business priorities. It is suited to a curious, adaptable scientist who applies analytical and material science expertise to product and ingredient development.

The position performs analyses, interprets results, contributes to technical writing, and supports projects and capability development. It also follows quality, health, safety, and laboratory practice requirements and supports audits.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Food Science, Material Science, or a related science.
• At least 2 years of laboratory work experience.
• Proactive work behavior, forward thinking, and ability to make complex decisions that create and deliver business solutions.
• Experience performing analytical method protocols while complying with quality standards and HSE protocols.
• Excellent attention to detail and analytical skills, and ability to comply with Good Laboratory Practices and standards.
• Project management skills and good working knowledge of experimental designs.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree in Chemistry, Food Science, Material Science, or a related science.
• At least 3 years of professional experience in Analytical or Material Sciences in the food, beverage, and/or confections industry.
• Knowledge and experience with advanced techniques such as material and physical characterization (rheology, particle characterization, XRD, DSC) or imaging (digital/optical microscopy, XRT, SEM).
• Strong written and verbal communication, problem-solving, organizational, time-management, and customer-focus skills.
• Experience with laboratory operational responsibilities, including purchasing materials, equipment setup, operation and calibration, troubleshooting, training, preventive maintenance protocols, and proper chemical management.
• Familiarity with statistical methods and basic ISO laboratory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Perform assigned analyses with minimal supervision after completing training, and provide accurate, timely data and interpretation of results.
• Draft routine standard operating procedures, test methods, and other laboratory or quality protocols with guidance.
• Support or lead projects with guidance, including troubleshooting, method development, continuous improvement, alignment scope intake in the area of expertise, and data science-related projects.
• Support capability development by exploring and developing new technologies, developing methods, and training others in areas of proficiency and expertise.
• Adhere to Quality Management Systems (QMS), HSE, and Good Laboratory Practices requirements, and support audits.

Benefits

• Industry-competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.
• Medical and dental benefits.
• Participation in a 401k plan.
• Paid time off benefits.
• Learning and development support from day one, including access to Mars University.

What This Job Offers

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