Urgent Need - Research Chemist

As a trusted partner, our Public Health mission is to make food systems safer, healthier and more sustainable. Throughout our global network in 32 countries, we offer a wide range of testing and innovative solutions dedicated to preventing health risks related to food, environment and consumer goods.

Crete Analytical Laboratory - Regular (US Only)

We are looking for a Research Chemist at 3600 Eagle Nest Dr, North Building, Crete, IL 60417 USA. Your mission will be to conduct chemical and analytical testing on food products, ingredients, and formulations to ensure quality, safety, and regulatory compliance. The position requires project ownership and management as well as mentoring junior chemists in analytical testing procedures. It serves as a technical resource for complex analyses and supports the building of a strong team of analytical professionals.

Perform testing for nutritional labeling, contaminants, toxins, preservatives, additives, and other food components in compliance with regulatory standards (FDA, USDA, AOAC, ISO, HACCP, etc.).

Lead study design for the verification and validation of new chemistry methods, including data evaluation to determine next steps with minimal support.

Maintain laboratory instruments, perform minor repairs, and coordinate installation of new equipment.

Perform advanced technical analyses with analytical instrumentation (GCMS, LCMS, HPLC, GC, ICPMS, etc.) Identify and document departures from the quality system or test procedures.

Read, calculate, and record analysis data to produce client reports; Review chemistry study data and write initial reports for approval by the Research Manager or Director.

Support corporate quality and continuous improvement processes.

Initiate actions to prevent or minimize quality system departures, address resource needs, and ensure timely client turnaround.

Perform investigations, root cause analysis, and communicate procedural difficulties to client service personnel.

Maintain knowledge of Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and mentor junior staff on methods, instrument operation, and best laboratory practices.

Lead specialized projects and support unique client requests.

Keep up-to-date with assigned training and collaborate with R&D, Quality Assurance, and operations teams to support new product development and process improvements.

Bachelor’s degree plus >6 years experience in a related chemistry lab environment

Master’s degree and >4 years relevant industry work experience

D in a related field and >2 years relevant industry experience

In lieu of degree, >10 years relevant work experience

Advanced knowledge of chemistry for analyses, correct results, and data interpretation

Strong proficiency in chromatography, spectroscopy, and other instrumental techniques (HPLC, GC, GC‑MS, LC‑MS, FTIR, ICP‑MS, ELISA, automated wet chemistry, etc.)

Strong knowledge of food composition, ingredient functionality, and food processing interactions

Experience performing method validation, statistical data analysis, and experimental design

Competency in laboratory procedures adhering to Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and ISO 17025 standards

Familiarity with food industry regulations (FDA, USDA, FSMA, etc.)

Advanced experience in method development and validation in food and dietary supplement chemistry

Advanced technical and troubleshooting skills on a variety of analytical instrumentation, including HPLC, GC‑MS, LC‑MS, FTIR, ICP‑MS, etc.

Ability to conduct shelf‑life studies, stability testing, and sensory evaluations to assess product

Routine contact with personnel outside the immediate working unit and customers

Strong oral and written communication skills essential for effective customer contact

Customer relations skills needed to obtain and provide information to the customer

Customer Service Orientation

Regularly required to stand, walk, and handle chemicals and laboratory equipment

Fine motor skills for precise measurements and handling of chemicals

Work performed in a chemical laboratory with exposure to hazardous substances

Adherence to safety protocols and usage of personal protective equipment (PPE) mandatory

May involve handling flammable, reactive, and toxic chemicals

Travel

As needed, travel may be required for various purposes, including attending industry conferences or collaborating with other research facilities

Typically involves travel within the country and lasts for short durations (1-3 days)

Potential bonus: Up to 3% based on performance.

Full Time Eligible Benefits Overview

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans

Generous paid time off (PTO) package to support work‑life balance following state and local ordinances

Be part of a community of an enthusiastic and skilled group of people who love co‑building together and serving a purpose bigger than them

Grow in an international group of more than 10,000 fantastic team members, with plenty of opportunities to learn and share