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Associate Scientist Jobs in O Fallon, IL (NOW HIRING)

Expert Data Scientist

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$130K - $188K/yr

As an Expert Data Scientist at Nestle Purina,you'llsupport enterprise-wide AI and machine learning ... We consider our associates our most valuable assets. Please apply for full consideration. The ...

... associate's degree plus 7 years of recent specialized experience, OR, a major certification plus 7 ... science, machine learning engineering, or data pipeline development. * Proficient in Python, SQL ...

... associate's degree plus 7 years of recent specialized experience, OR, a major certification plus 7 ... science, machine learning engineering, or data pipeline development. * Proficient in Python, SQL ...

Data Scientist Remote 12 Month Contract to hire Data Scientist - Profile Overview This is a data foundation-heavy Data Scientist role with strong overlap into Data Engineering. What the client is ...

Sr. Scientist

Hazelwood, MO · On-site

$84K - $115K/yr

Description Sr. Scientist, Sensor Chemistry Reports To: Sr. Mgr, Sensor Chemistry Position Summary The Senior Scientist, Sensor Chemistry is a technical contributor responsible for evaluating ...

Showing results 21-40

Associate Scientist information

See O Fallon, IL salary details

$17

$33

$53

How much do associate scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate scientist in O'Fallon, IL is $33.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.01 and $38.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an associate scientist do?

An Associate Scientist is a professional who supports research and development projects, typically in fields like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, or environmental science. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and document results under the supervision of senior scientists. Associate Scientists play a key role in advancing scientific knowledge and product development by performing laboratory tasks, maintaining equipment, and following established protocols. Their work contributes to discoveries, quality control, and regulatory compliance within their organization.

What is an associate scientist?

An associate scientist takes on more responsibilities than an assistant scientist, supporting research and each experiment under the lead scientist, often in a laboratory environment. As an associate scientist, there are many industries you can work in, including the research field where the lead scientist oversees your project, and you help author papers. Many pharmaceutical companies hire associate scientists to analyze samples to develop drugs and assist with preclinical and clinical studies. Private companies need you to produce specialty chemicals for their clients. Materials scientists at the associate level conduct research and test the properties of metals, plastics, and other materials for their use in new products and packaging. Some positions have duties that include training other team members and overseeing students and fellows.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Scientist, you generally need a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant scientific field, along with strong analytical and laboratory skills. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), data analysis software, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills that distinguish top performers. These skills ensure accurate data collection, reliable experimental outcomes, and productive collaboration within research or product development teams.

What are some common challenges an associate scientist might face when transitioning from academia to industry?

Associate Scientists moving from academia to industry often encounter challenges such as adapting to a faster-paced environment and focusing on project-driven outcomes rather than open-ended research. In industry, there is a stronger emphasis on teamwork, meeting strict deadlines, and following standardized protocols. Adjusting to these expectations, learning new technologies, and effectively communicating results to cross-functional teams are key areas where new hires may need support.

What is the difference between Associate Scientist vs Research Scientist?

AspectAssociate ScientistResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant field; some roles may require a PhDTypically a Master's or PhD in a related discipline
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, industry settingsResearch labs, academic institutions, industry
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech, pharmaceuticals, academia, governmentBiotech, pharmaceuticals, academia, government
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level or mid-level research rolesAdvanced research roles, career progression

Associate Scientists and Research Scientists often work in similar environments within biotech, pharma, or academic sectors. The main difference lies in experience and educational requirements, with Research Scientists typically holding higher degrees and engaging in more independent or advanced research. Both roles are essential for scientific progress, but Research Scientists usually have more responsibility and autonomy in their projects.

Is an associate scientist entry level?

An associate scientist position is often considered an entry-level or early-career role in research and development, typically requiring a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. It involves performing experiments, data analysis, and supporting scientific projects, with opportunities for skill development and advancement. However, some organizations may require prior experience or specific certifications depending on the complexity of the work.

What degree do you need to be an associate scientist?

An associate scientist typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or related sciences. Advanced roles may require a master's degree or higher, along with laboratory skills and experience with scientific tools and techniques.

What are popular job titles related to Associate Scientist jobs in O'Fallon, IL?

For Associate Scientist jobs in O'Fallon, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near O'Fallon, IL are hiring for Associate Scientist jobs?

Cities near O'Fallon, IL with the most Associate Scientist job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Scientist job openings in O'Fallon, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,702 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

$88K - $123K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Driven by integrity and united by the people-and-pet bond, we find strong purpose in the work we do and an even greater joy in those we get to work alongside. Together, we harness the expertise of our long-standing tradition of excellence to embrace possibility and continuously push to do what's never been done before in pet care. Discover your purpose and fuel your passions when you bring your love of pets to a team that prides itself on the power of togetherness-We are Proudly Connected. Purely Driven.
Position Summary
Digital Transformation is at the center of all that we do. With data-driven innovators passionate about making a difference in the lives of pets, we create cutting-edge digital business models that solve complex problems. You'll be at the forefront of digital advancements as they happen in real time, as well as ensure we remain a leader and innovator in the pet care category. Have a hand in making a lasting impact within our long-standing history.
As a Data Scientist at Nestlé Purina, you'll build and deploy the machine learning and optimization models that drive real business value across functions such as Manufacturing, Marketing, Supply Chain, Finance, and Consumer Insights. At the core of this role is traditional machine learning and optimization, building the models and optimization engines that power some of our highest-value business decisions. Working closely with cross-functional teams, you'll translate business problems into scalable analytical solutions, automate insights, and support enterprise decision-making.
  • Develop and deploy machine learning, statistical, and optimization models that solve business problems and improve operational performance
  • Support the development and maintenance of optimization engines that drive high-value business decisions
  • Collaborate with product owners, data engineers, and business stakeholders to translate business needs into scalable analytical solutions
  • Perform data wrangling, feature engineering, exploratory data analysis, and model evaluation using Python and SQL
  • Design and maintain reusable analytics workflows and automated pipelines for production-grade deployment
  • Support GenAI-enabled applications including retrieval augmented generation (RAG), copilots, and intelligent assistants
  • Contribute to AIOps/MLOps practices including model versioning, monitoring, continuous integration and continuous deployment pipelines, and responsible AI processes

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field
  • 3+ years of professional experience in data science, analytics, or machine learning, including developing optimization or predictive models
  • 3+ years of experience in Python (e.g., scikit-learn, pandas, PySpark, and NumPy) and SQL for data manipulation and analysis
  • 1+ years of experience working with cloud computing platforms (e.g., Azure, AWS, or GCP) and DevOps/CI-CD practices

Other
  • Master's degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related field is preferred
  • Experience with MLOps tools (e.g., MLflow, Azure ML, SageMaker, or Kubeflow) and model deployment in a production environment is preferred
  • Experience working with Databricks, Snowflake, or distributed data processing environments is preferred
  • Experience building GenAI-enabled applications such as RAG, copilots, or intelligent assistants is preferred
  • Familiarity with LLM orchestration frameworks (e.g., LangChain or Semantic Kernel), prompt engineering, and vector databases is preferred
  • Familiarity with responsible AI practices including bias detection, explainability, and governance is preferred

Don't meet all the qualifications listed under "Other"? These are preferred, but not required. When you apply for a role with Nestlé, we ensure that individual confidentiality is held to the highest regard. We are intentional about creating an inclusive workplace for everyone. We consider our associates our most valuable assets. Please apply for full consideration.
The approximate pay range for this position is $88,000 to $123,000 per year. Final compensation may vary based on factors including but not limited to knowledge, skills and abilities as well as geographic location. Nestlé offers performance-based incentives and a competitive total rewards package, which includes a 401k with company match, healthcare coverage and a broad range of other benefits. Learn more at https://nestlejobs.com/nestle-in-the-us.
It is our business imperative to remain a very inclusive workplace.
To our veterans and separated service members, you're at the forefront of our minds as we recruit top talent to join Nestlé. The skills you've gained while serving our country, such as flexibility, agility, and leadership, are much like the skills that will make you successful in this role. In addition, with our commitment to an inclusive work environment, we recognize the exceptional engagement and innovation displayed by individuals with disabilities. Nestlé seeks such skilled and qualified individuals to share our mission where you'll join a cohort of others who have chosen to call Nestlé home.
The Nestlé Companies are equal employment opportunity employers. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Prior to the next step in the recruiting process, we welcome you to inform us confidentially if you may require any special accommodations in order to participate fully in our recruitment experience. Contact us at accommodations@nestle.com or please dial 711 and provide this number to the operator: 1-800-321-6467.
This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.
Review our applicant privacy notice before applying at https://www.nestlejobs.com/privacy.
Job Requisition: 409964
Driven by integrity and united by the people-and-pet bond, we find strong purpose in the work we do and an even greater joy in those we get to work alongside. Together, we harness the expertise of our long-standing tradition of excellence to embrace possibility and continuously push to do what's never been done before in pet care. Discover your purpose and fuel your passions when you bring your love of pets to a team that prides itself on the power of togetherness-We are Proudly Connected. Purely Driven.
Position Summary
Digital Transformation is at the center of all that we do. With data-driven innovators passionate about making a difference in the lives of pets, we create cutting-edge digital business models that solve complex problems. You'll be at the forefront of digital advancements as they happen in real time, as well as ensure we remain a leader and innovator in the pet care category. Have a hand in making a lasting impact within our long-standing history.
As a Data Scientist at Nestlé Purina, you'll build and deploy the machine learning and optimization models that drive real business value across functions such as Manufacturing, Marketing, Supply Chain, Finance, and Consumer Insights. At the core of this role is traditional machine learning and optimization, building the models and optimization engines that power some of our highest-value business decisions. Working closely with cross-functional teams, you'll translate business problems into scalable analytical solutions, automate insights, and support enterprise decision-making.
  • Develop and deploy machine learning, statistical, and optimization models that solve business problems and improve operational performance
  • Support the development and maintenance of optimization engines that drive high-value business decisions
  • Collaborate with product owners, data engineers, and business stakeholders to translate business needs into scalable analytical solutions
  • Perform data wrangling, feature engineering, exploratory data analysis, and model evaluation using Python and SQL
  • Design and maintain reusable analytics workflows and automated pipelines for production-grade deployment
  • Support GenAI-enabled applications including retrieval augmented generation (RAG), copilots, and intelligent assistants
  • Contribute to AIOps/MLOps practices including model versioning, monitoring, continuous integration and continuous deployment pipelines, and responsible AI processes

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field
  • 3+ years of professional experience in data science, analytics, or machine learning, including developing optimization or predictive models
  • 3+ years of experience in Python (e.g., scikit-learn, pandas, PySpark, and NumPy) and SQL for data manipulation and analysis
  • 1+ years of experience working with cloud computing platforms (e.g., Azure, AWS, or GCP) and DevOps/CI-CD practices

Other
  • Master's degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related field is preferred
  • Experience with MLOps tools (e.g., MLflow, Azure ML, SageMaker, or Kubeflow) and model deployment in a production environment is preferred
  • Experience working with Databricks, Snowflake, or distributed data processing environments is preferred
  • Experience building GenAI-enabled applications such as RAG, copilots, or intelligent assistants is preferred
  • Familiarity with LLM orchestration frameworks (e.g., LangChain or Semantic Kernel), prompt engineering, and vector databases is preferred
  • Familiarity with responsible AI practices including bias detection, explainability, and governance is preferred

Don't meet all the qualifications listed under "Other"? These are preferred, but not required. When you apply for a role with Nestlé, we ensure that individual confidentiality is held to the highest regard. We are intentional about creating an inclusive workplace for everyone. We consider our associates our most valuable assets. Please apply for full consideration.
The approximate pay range for this position is $88,000 to $123,000 per year. Final compensation may vary based on factors including but not limited to knowledge, skills and abilities as well as geographic location. Nestlé offers performance-based incentives and a competitive total rewards package, which includes a 401k with company match, healthcare coverage and a broad range of other benefits. Learn more at https://nestlejobs.com/nestle-in-the-us.
It is our business imperative to remain a very inclusive workplace.
To our veterans and separated service members, you're at the forefront of our minds as we recruit top talent to join Nestlé. The skills you've gained while serving our country, such as flexibility, agility, and leadership, are much like the skills that will make you successful in this role. In addition, with our commitment to an inclusive work environment, we recognize the exceptional engagement and innovation displayed by individuals with disabilities. Nestlé seeks such skilled and qualified individuals to share our mission where you'll join a cohort of others who have chosen to call Nestlé home.
The Nestlé Companies are equal employment opportunity employers. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Prior to the next step in the recruiting process, we welcome you to inform us confidentially if you may require any special accommodations in order to participate fully in our recruitment experience. Contact us at accommodations@nestle.com or please dial 711 and provide this number to the operator: 1-800-321-6467.
This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.
Review our applicant privacy notice before applying at https://www.nestlejobs.com/privacy.
Job Requisition: 409964