Principal Scientist

Job DescriptionPrincipal Scientist- Decatur, ILAre you ready to lead the next wave of innovation in carbohydrate materials and engineering? We are seeking an exceptional Principal Scientist to drive cutting-edge research, development, and engineering efforts in carbohydrate-based materials. This role combines scientific expertise, engineering acumen, and leadership to deliver transformative solutions across industries such as food, construction, fermentation, plant care, packaging, papers, and personal care.OverviewAs a Principal Scientist specializing in carbohydrate materials, you will lead multidisciplinary teams to design, develop, and optimize advanced carbohydrate-based systems and processes. You will play a critical role in bridging science and engineering, applying your deep expertise to create high-value materials and ingredients that drive commercial success. This role goes beyond research—it demands a visionary leader who can integrate engineering principles with scientific discovery to develop scalable processes and systems. You will collaborate across functions, manage complex projects, and mentor teams to ensure delivery of innovative solutions. Your contributions will position you as a thought leader within the organization and the broader scientific and engineering communities.Key ResponsibilitiesProcess Design and OptimizationLead the design, development, and optimization of scalable manufacturing processes for carbohydrate-based materials using advanced engineering principles.Oversee process development efforts, including extrusion, chemical reactor systems, mixing technologies, and pilot-scale production.Develop and implement strategies to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance sustainability in carbohydrate material production.Technology IntegrationEvaluate and implement emerging technologies, including advanced manufacturing techniques and automation systems, to drive innovation in carbohydrate materials engineering.Collaborate with operations teams to integrate new processes into existing manufacturing systems while ensuring compatibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness.Equipment and Pilot Plant ManagementProvide technical leadership in the operation, maintenance, and optimization of pilot and lab-scale equipment.Design and execute experimental plans to test and refine equipment performance for carbohydrate-based systems.Leadership and Project ManagementTeam LeadershipLead cross-functional teams, including scientists, engineers, and technicians, to drive complex R&D and engineering projects from concept to commercialization.Mentor and develop team members, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and technical excellence.Strategic PlanningDevelop and execute strategic plans for carbohydrate materials R&D, aligning with business goals and market trends.Identify opportunities for growth and innovation, proactively proposing new projects and initiatives that advance organizational objectives.Project ManagementManage large-scale, multidisciplinary projects using gated project management methodologies, ensuring on-time delivery of milestones and objectives.Coordinate resources, budgets, and timelines to achieve project success while maintaining alignment with safety and quality standards.Research and DevelopmentMaterial InnovationLead efforts to modify and engineer carbohydrate materials for enhanced functionality, performance, and sustainability across diverse applications.Develop advanced carbohydrate-based systems for industries such as packaging, construction, fermentation, plant care, and personal care.Experimental Design and AnalysisDesign and execute robust experimental plans to investigate the chemical, physical, and mechanical properties of carbohydrate systems.Apply advanced statistical tools and design of experiments (DOE) software to optimize experimental designs and extract actionable insights.Technical Expertise and CommunicationAnalytical and Rheological TechniquesUtilize advanced analytical tools (e.g., NMR spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, DSC, imaging technologies) and rheological techniques (e.g., rotational rheometers, capillary rheometers) to characterize and optimize carbohydrate systems.Investigate molecular interactions, structural properties, and functional performance to enhance product development.Technical CommunicationDeliver clear, impactful technical materials, presentations, and reports to communicate findings and opportunities to internal stakeholders and external customers.Represent the organization at conferences, trade associations, and academic collaborations, showcasing technical leadership and expertise.Safety and ComplianceSafety LeadershipEnsure safe working practices in research labs, pilot plants, and manufacturing facilities, meeting or exceeding safety standards.Develop and enforce safety protocols for hazardous material handling and equipment operation.QualificationsEducation:PhD or Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Organic Chemistry, or a related field.Experience:Minimum of 10 years of industrial experience in biobased materials engineering and sustainability, with expertise in packaging, construction, fermentation, plant care, home, and personal care industries.Proven leadership experience managing multidisciplinary teams and large-scale projects.Extensive knowledge of carbohydrate materials, including starch, cellulose, and other natural products, with hands-on experience in extrusion processes and process engineering.Technical Skills:Expertise in process design, optimization, and scale-up for carbohydrate-based systems.Proficiency with advanced analytical instrumentation and characterization techniques for carbohydrate materials.Strong knowledge of statistical software, DOE methodologies, and Microsoft Office Suite.Soft Skills:Exceptional leadership, communication, and project management abilities.Strategic thinker with a proactive approach to identifying and driving innovation.Ability to collaborate across functions and build strong relationships with external partners.Travel:Willingness to travel up to 20% to support research, collaboration, and customer engagement efforts.What We OfferOpportunity to lead engineering and scientific innovation, driving transformative solutions in carbohydrate materials.Recognition as a high-level scientific and engineering resource within the organization and industry.A collaborative environment that fosters creativity, innovation, and professional growth.Join us in this exciting role where you’ll combine scientific discovery with engineering excellence to shape the future of carbohydrate materials. Lead the charge in innovation, sustainability, and commercial success—apply todayExcited 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.ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.REF:102923BRBase pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours.If hired, employees will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.The pay range for this position is expected to be between:$101,300.00 - $171,600.00Salaried Incentive PlanThe total compensation package for this position will also include annual bonus and a long-term incentive planBenefits and PerksEnriching the quality of life for the world begins by taking care of our colleagues. In addition to competitive pay, we support your diverse needs with a comprehensive total rewards package to enhance your well-being, including:Physical wellness – medical/Rx, dental, vision and on-site wellness center access or gym reimbursement (as applicable).Financial wellness – 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.Mental and social wellness – Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Colleague Giving Programs (ADM Cares).Additional benefits include: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.*Benefits may vary for bargained locations, confirm benefit eligibility with your recruiter.#IncludingYouDiversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are cornerstones of ADM’s efforts to continue innovating, driving growth, and delivering outstanding performance. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and create welcoming, truly inclusive work environments — environments that enable every ADM colleague to feel comfortable on the job, make meaningful contributions to our success, and grow their career. We respect and value the unique backgrounds and experiences that each person can bring to ADM because we know that diversity of perspectives makes us better, together.We welcome everyone to apply. We are committed to ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, language, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by lawAbout ADMAt ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry-advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We’re a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world’s premier agricultural origination and processing company. Our breadth, depth, insights, facilities and logistical expertise give us unparalleled capabilities to meet needs for food, beverages, health and wellness, and more. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we enrich the quality of life the world over. Learn more at www.adm.com.Req/Job ID102923BR#LI-OnsiteRef ID#LI-AS5 #J-18808-Ljbffr