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Biotech Process Development Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

The Fermentation team at ADM Research is dedicated to the development of fermentation processes in ... Experience in industrial biotechnology is preferred, with a proven ability to deliver value to the ...

Project Manager - Life Sciences

Chicago, IL · On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

... biotechnology sectors. You'll oversee the complete engineering lifecycle - from concept through ... Team & Process Development * Mentor engineers and designers, fostering a culture of continuous ...

Plant Controller-Mapleton IL

Mapleton, IL · On-site

$99K - $123K/yr

... process development help our customers to safeguard nutrition, health and infrastructure efficiently through chemistry and biotechnology that enhance sustainability. We offer a broad portfolio of ...

Plant Controller-Mapleton IL

Mapleton, IL

$99K - $123K/yr

... process development help our customers to safeguard nutrition, health and infrastructure efficiently through chemistry and biotechnology that enhance sustainability. We offer a broad portfolio of ...

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Biotech Process Development information

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$18

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$41

How much do biotech process development jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for biotech process development in Illinois is $30.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.73 and $33.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is biotech process development?

Biotech process development refers to the design, optimization, and scale-up of manufacturing processes used to produce biological products, such as pharmaceuticals, enzymes, or vaccines. Professionals in this field work to turn laboratory procedures into efficient, large-scale industrial processes that meet regulatory and quality standards. This often involves selecting suitable equipment, optimizing conditions, ensuring reproducibility, and troubleshooting production issues. The ultimate goal is to produce high-quality products safely, consistently, and cost-effectively.

What is the difference between Biotech Process Development vs Biotech Manufacturing Associate?

AspectBiotech Process DevelopmentBiotech Manufacturing Associate
Primary FocusDesigning, optimizing, and scaling up bioprocesses for product developmentExecuting manufacturing processes to produce biopharmaceuticals at scale
Work EnvironmentLaboratories and pilot plant facilitiesProduction floors and manufacturing plants
Required SkillsProcess design, lab techniques, troubleshootingEquipment operation, quality control, adherence to SOPs
Typical CredentialsBSc/MSc in Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, or related fieldsBSc in Biotechnology, Biology, or related fields

While both roles are essential in biotech, Biotech Process Development focuses on creating and optimizing processes during product development, whereas Biotech Manufacturing Associates handle the day-to-day production to ensure consistent product quality at scale.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Biotech Process Development, and why are they important?

To excel in Biotech Process Development, you need a strong background in bioprocess engineering, molecular biology, and chemistry, typically supported by a degree in biotechnology or related fields. Familiarity with tools such as bioreactors, chromatography systems, and data analysis software, along with certifications in Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are crucial for optimizing processes, ensuring product quality, and driving innovation in the biotech industry.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Biotech Process Development, and how are they typically addressed?

Professionals in Biotech Process Development often encounter challenges related to scaling up processes from the laboratory to commercial production, ensuring product consistency, and meeting strict regulatory standards. Addressing these challenges typically involves close collaboration with cross-functional teams such as quality assurance, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing. Continuous process optimization, thorough documentation, and robust validation protocols are essential strategies to overcome these hurdles and ensure successful product development and commercialization.
What are popular job titles related to Biotech Process Development jobs in Illinois? For Biotech Process Development jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Biotech Process Development jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Biotech Process Development jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Biotech Process Development jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Biotech Process Development job openings:
Scientist III, Fermentation - Decatur, IL

Scientist III, Fermentation - Decatur, IL

Archer Daniels Midland

On-site

Other

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Scientist III, Fermentation - Decatur, IL
ADM Research & Development
This is an exempt-level position.
Position Summary:
The Fermentation team at ADM Research is dedicated to the development of fermentation processes in the areas of Human Nutrition, Animal Nutrition, and Sustainable Materials. The successful candidate will lead experimentation at the 7.5L scale for a range of processes aimed at producing ingredients such as proteins, amino acids, organic acids, hydrocolloids, and enzymes.
In this role, the candidate will be responsible for ideation and experimental design; contribute to the execution of experiments by leading a small team; perform troubleshooting, data analysis, and techno-economic analysis; and, in some cases, provide project management support. Additionally, the candidate is expected to contribute to the continuous improvement of fermentation processes, address operational issues, enhance safety measures, and perform basic maintenance on fermentation equipment.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Demonstrate comprehensive subject-matter expertise and work under limited supervision.
  • Develop projects targeting manufacture at larger scale and future growth opportunities for ADM, facilitating the development of globally competitive products used across a variety of industries.
  • Provide ideation and technical input in evaluating new production strains across a range of products, including bacteria, yeast, and filamentous fungi.
  • Develop experiments to optimize rate, titer, and yield for fermentation processes using an understanding of microbial physiology, process development, and economic models.
  • Design and lead the execution of fermentation experiments at the 7.5 L scale, including troubleshooting to resolve or mitigate issues.
  • Record experimental details, process data, and observations to identify potential improvements; operate and maintain laboratory equipment.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement efforts related to fermentation execution and laboratory safety.
  • Develop and enhance fermentation protocols and create associated documentation, including SOPs and Job Safety Analyses (JSAs).
  • Guide technical and equipment purchase decisions and support the technical development of colleagues.
Job Requirements:
Skills and Experience Needed:
  • Minimum educational background: BSc, MSc, or PhD 
    • BSc 10+ years
    • MSc 5+ years
    • PhD 0+ years
  • Hands-on working knowledge of fermentation equipment, including troubleshooting and maintenance, is preferred.
  • Experience in industrial biotechnology is preferred, with a proven ability to deliver value to the business through the execution of projects.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills are essential for effectively engaging with both technical and non-technical personnel.
  • Proven ability to work as a team player within diverse, multidisciplinary teams to coordinate knowledge transfer during scale-up processes to provide business value.
  • Must be self-motivated and highly detail oriented.
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs. and work comfortably in a pilot lab environment.
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:104670BR