Extrusion Scientist - Decatur, IL

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Job Title: Extrusion Scientist - Decatur, IL
Location: Decatur, IL, Midwest United States, USA

Company: Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM)
Industry Sector: Agribusiness
Industry Type: Input Retail, Cooperative and Related Crop Services
Job Type: Full Time

Job Description: Job Description

Extrusion Scientist - Decatur, IL

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

Excited 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:110390BR

#IncludingYou

Diversity, 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 law

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Job Post Date: 06/25/26