Research Associate

Kemin • Des Moines, IA

24d

About The Position

Kemin Food Technologies is looking for a Research Associate!
The Research Associate will support a wide range of projects across Kemin Food Technologies (KFT), contributing to both laboratory and pilot‑scale work. This role involves hands‑on experimentation, basic data interpretation, and the application of foundational laboratory and chemistry knowledge. Experience in microbiology is a plus! Daily responsibilities may include operating equipment such as ovens and tortilla presses, conducting food application studies across various product types including baked goods, and assisting with pilot lab activities. The role will also support ongoing initiatives such as new color development and microbial projects, along with learning to operate specialized equipment in the bakery lab.
Join the Kemin Team and Transform Lives!
We are a privately held, family-owned-and-operated global biotechnology company driven by curiosity and committed to transforming the quality of life for people, pets, and the planet.
We create solutions that strengthen health and wellbeing, provide nutrition and immune support for pets and production animals, safeguard the planet’s natural resources, and protect the global food supply chain for generations to come.
We supply over 500 specialty ingredients for various industries, including human and animal health and nutrition, pet food, aquaculture, nutraceutical, food technologies, crop technologies, textiles, biofuels, and animal vaccines.
We employ 3,500 global employees and operations in 90 countries, including manufacturing facilities in Belgium, Brazil, China, Egypt, India, Italy, San Marino, Singapore, South Africa, and the United States.
As a valued member of our team, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your financial, physical, and professional well-being:
Competitive Financial Package: Enjoy a rewarding salary, uncapped bonus opportunities, a 401k match program, and generous paid vacation and holidays.
Health and Wellness Support: Stay fit and healthy with our 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: Unlock your potential with opportunities for growth and development throughout your entire career.
Continued Learning Opportunities: Grow your skills with our in-house learning platforms, offering thousands of training resources both live and online, and take advantage of tuition reimbursement for external post-secondary pursuits.
Service Opportunities: Make a positive impact with paid time off for service, partnerships with The World Food Programme and Habitat for Humanity, and local community initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelors Degree in Food Science with 2+ years of relevant experience preferred
• Associates Degree with 2+ years of relevant experience
• Ability to work under pressure and able to handle multiple projects efficiently.
• Analytical lab skills with a strong scientific curiosity and innovative thinking
• Reliable and self-motivated
• Good understanding of Microsoft office products (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, etc.)
• Good written and oral communication skills.
• Basic understanding of English, both written and oral.
• Ability to interact well with others in a team environment.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in Chemistry, Microbiology, Bakery science or food testing is preferred

Responsibilities

• Perform lab experiments within well-defined guidelines and under direct supervision; operate laboratory and pilot laboratory equipment.
• Perform literature reviews and provide written summary.
• Draft SOP’s, research protocols and research methods, with supervision.
• Perform basic data analysis, with supervision.
• Collect, interpret and document research data, with supervision.
• Prepare and present research data and analytics in multiple formats.
• Contribute to scientific publications used for internal purposes.
• Perform other duties and projects as assigned.

Benefits

• Competitive Financial Package: Enjoy a rewarding salary, uncapped bonus opportunities, a 401k match program, and generous paid vacation and holidays.
• Health and Wellness Support: Stay fit and healthy with our 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: Unlock your potential with opportunities for growth and development throughout your entire career.
• Continued Learning Opportunities: Grow your skills with our in-house learning platforms, offering thousands of training resources both live and online, and take advantage of tuition reimbursement for external post-secondary pursuits.
• Service Opportunities: Make a positive impact with paid time off for service, partnerships with The World Food Programme and Habitat for Humanity, and local community initiatives.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree