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Associate Formulation Scientist Jobs in Chicago, IL

Sr. Specialist, Regulatory

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $112K/yr

FDA formulation and labeling requirements to navigate complexity, manage risk, and support cross ... Partners with Scientific Regulatory Affairs team to stay abreast of emerging applicable global ...

... rubber formulation technologies, key internal processes, and customer processes. * The Product ... scientific field or Engineering with minimum 2 years of progressive experience, or Associate degree ...

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Associate Formulation Scientist information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$20

$38

$74

How much do associate formulation scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate formulation scientist in Chicago, IL is $38.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.01 and $44.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate formulation scientist?

To thrive as an Associate Formulation Scientist, you need a solid background in chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, or a related field, often supported by a bachelor's or master's degree. Experience with laboratory techniques, analytical instruments (like HPLC, GC), and familiarity with GLP/GMP regulations are essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate formulation development, compliance with regulatory standards, and successful collaboration in a research-driven environment.

What is the difference between Associate Formulation Scientist vs Formulation Scientist?

AspectAssociate Formulation ScientistFormulation Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in pharmacy, chemistry, or related field; some roles may require 1-2 years of experienceBachelor's or master's degree; typically 2+ years of experience in formulation development
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, supporting formulation projects under supervisionLaboratory and development environment, leading formulation tasks
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceutical, biotech, and cosmetic companiesPharmaceutical and biotech industries, R&D departments

The Associate Formulation Scientist role is an entry-level position supporting formulation development, often with less experience required. The Formulation Scientist typically has more experience and takes on greater responsibility in developing and optimizing formulations. Both roles are common in pharmaceutical and biotech industries, with the Associate position serving as a stepping stone to more advanced formulation roles.

What does an associate formulation scientist do?

An Associate Formulation Scientist is responsible for developing and optimizing formulas for products such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, or food items. They conduct experiments to test the stability, safety, and effectiveness of different formulations, often working under the guidance of more senior scientists. Their duties may also include documenting results, preparing reports, and collaborating with other teams such as quality control or production. This role is essential for ensuring that products meet regulatory standards and perform as intended.

What are the typical collaboration points between an associate formulation scientist and other departments?

As an Associate Formulation Scientist, you’ll frequently collaborate with teams from analytical chemistry, quality assurance, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing. This cross-functional interaction is essential for troubleshooting formulation issues, ensuring regulatory compliance, and scaling up laboratory formulations for production. Regular meetings and project updates with these departments not only help streamline workflow but also provide valuable exposure to different areas of the product development process, fostering both learning and career growth.
What are the most commonly searched types of Formulation Scientist jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Formulation Scientist jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Associate Food Scientist - Chicago

Conagra Brands

Chicago, IL • On-site

$59K - $79K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Conagra Brands rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 133 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

213th of 435 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Job Summary:

Under direct supervision, researches, conducts experiments, gathers data, develops preliminary findings and prepares written reports for the development of new products beginning at conception through successful commercialization.  Follows established protocols and work plans and drafts for review technical proposals and reports.

Position Responsibilities:

  • Develop new products beginning at the concept phase through successful commercialization.
  • Conduct plant trials and new product start-ups.
  • Plan, prioritize and complete tasks effectively and efficiently.
  • Maintain accurate and complete records.
  • Work with pilot plant equipment under supervision.
  • Learn and utilize on-line specification system.
  • Execute experiments and prepare results for review.
  • Conceptualize and develop new products prototypes.
  • Manages individual tasks and works under supervision.
  • Assist team with product cutting, plant trials, and testing
  • Maintains a clean, organized and safe work area, including the cleaning of equipment, utensils and work surfaces.

Position Requirements:

  • BS in Food Science or related field required. MS preferred
  • 1 year relevant work experience
  • Pro-active self-starter, willing to accept responsibility for business tasks.
  • Proven ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Clear, concise written and verbal communication.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office software.
  • Problem solving skills.
  • Requires knowledge in food product design, formulation, ingredient functionality and interaction, process design, product scale-up, plant testing and commercialization.

Physical Requirements:

  • Work in and around cramped/confined spaces
  • Climbing to various heights via stairs or ladders
  • Exposure to manufacturing environments for periodic extended work days to include:  loud noise, excessive heat, cold, wet, and slippery conditions. 
  • Use of tools, equipment, and machinery
  • Driving a company or rental vehicle for up to 6 hours as needed
  • May travel up to 30% of time.  Must be able to travel independently and as a responsible CAG representative.
  • Exposure to food tasting and smells including all food allergens

Last Modified:  March 2017

Compensation

Pay Range:$59,000-$79,000

The annual salary listed above is the expected offering for this position. An employee's actual annual salary will be based on but not limited to: location, relevant experience/level and skillset, while balancing internal Conagra employees' equity.Conagra Brands will comply with applicable law regarding minimum salaries for exempt employees.

Our Benefits

We care about your total well-being and will support you with the following, subject to your location and role:

  • Health: Comprehensive healthcare plans, wellness incentive program, mental wellbeing support and fitness reimbursement

  • Wealth: Great pay, bonus incentive opportunity, matching 401(k) and stock purchase plan

  • Growth: Career development opportunities, employee resource groups, on-demand learning and tuition reimbursement

  • Balance: Paid-time off, parental leave, flexible work-schedules (subject to your location and role) and volunteer opportunities

Our Company

At Conagra Brands, we have a rich heritage of making great food. We aspire to have the most impactful, energized and inclusive culture in food. As a member of our 18,000+ person team across 40+ locations, you are empowered to reach your potential, make an impact and own your career. We're in the business of building champions - within our people and our iconic brands like Birds Eye, Slim Jim and Reddi-Wip.

Our focus on innovation extends beyond making great food, it also reflects our commitment to embracing new solutions that positively impact our team, the communities we serve and the health of our planet. Foodies Welcome.

Conagra Brands is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, pregnancy, leave status, disability, veteran status, genetic information and/or any other characteristic or status protected by national, federal, state or local law. Reasonable accommodation may be made upon request.


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About Conagra Brands

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Conagra Brands (NYSE: CAG) is an approximately $11 billion company that combines a rich heritage of making great food with a sharpened focus and entrepreneurial spirit. We're transforming the way we operate to fulfill what consumers and customers want, in a smart, simple way. We're modernizing our iconic food brands, leveraging fresh opportunities and adapting to a changing landscape - all with a culture that's ready to capture growth and drive shareholder value.

Industry

Food services and drinking places

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1919

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