About this opportunity
ADM lists this Extrusion Scientist - Decatur, IL opportunity in decatur, Illinois. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
Position Summary
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.
Key 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
Qualifications
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
Core Competencies Technical & Engineering
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
Food Science (Critical Competency)
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)
Professional Skills
Project ownership and project execution excellence
Cross-functional leadership and stakeholder influence
Clear technical communication and documentation
Mentorship and knowledge sharing
ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.
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Worksite address
decatur, IL, 62523, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.