Entry Level Food Science Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

At Ajinomoto Health & Nutrition, we are making significant advances in food and health with new ideas and innovative technologies. We are seeking candidates with energy and enthusiasm to be part of our growing team throughout North America. As an Ajinomoto Health & Nutrition employee, you are part of a diverse, innovative, and collaborative community committed to enhancing lives through nutrition and health. Our team is committed to providing amino acid-based solutions that create better lives for all.

We do not use AI to screen applications. Applications and resumes of qualified applicants are reviewed by a real person because we value your time and believe each qualified applicant deserves thoughtful, human consideration. It's an oldfashioned approach-done with purpose.

Our people are the key ingredient to our success. We offer a collaborative, innovative environment where you can grow your career and make an impact on global food and health solutions.

We provide a comprehensive and competitive total rewards package, including:

Competitive Pay and Annual Bonus Opportunity 401(k) with Company Contributions  Medical, Dental, and Vision - Effective Day 1 Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, and Floating Holidays

Paid Parental Leave Wellness Programs and Yearly Wellness Reimbursement Work Flexibility Company-Paid Life and Disability Insurance Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Tuition Reimbursement Opportunities Career Growth and Development within a Global Organization

Company-Provided Mental Health and Caregiving support

The Sample Processing Specialist is responsible for supporting Ajinomoto Health & Nutrition North America's sample room operations and laboratory activities at the Itasca Innovation Center. This role manages sample fulfillment activities, including sample preparation, repacking, inventory stocking, shipment execution, Salesforce transaction processing, and sample room organization. The position partners closely with R&D, Sales, and Supply Chain teams to ensure accurate and timely sample fulfillment while maintaining inventory accuracy, product traceability, and sample room efficiency.

Education, Certifications and Experience High School Diploma or equivalent required; Associate degree in Food Science, Biology, Chemistry, Supply Chain, or related field preferred, but not required. 0-2 years of experience in a laboratory, food manufacturing, warehouse, inventory, fulfillment, or related environment. Experience with inventory management systems, Salesforce, shipping systems, or laboratory operations is a plus. Ability to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs), safety requirements, and documentation practices.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to accurately manage inventory, labeling, documentation, and recordkeeping. Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office and inventory management systems. Ability to learn and utilize Salesforce for sample fulfillment, inventory management, and replenishment workflows. Strong teamwork and communication skills. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision. Knowledge of basic food laboratory practices, GMPs (Good Manufacturing Practices), and safety procedures preferred. Ability to maintain accuracy while performing repetitive tasks.

Working Conditions Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and perform repetitive motions for extended periods. Ability to routinely lift and move materials weighing up to 50 pounds. Ability to work in laboratory, warehouse, shipping, and storage environments. Ability to safely handle food ingredients, packaging materials, and laboratory equipment. Ability to maintain compliance with company safety and food quality requirements.

Fulfill customer and internal sample requests by picking, packing, labeling, and preparing shipments in accordance with established procedures. Process and update sample fulfillment records, shipment information, and inventory transactions within Salesforce. Receive, stock, organize, and maintain finished goods, repacked samples, and related materials within the sample room. Perform sample repacking activities, including weighing, packaging, labeling, and stocking replenished inventory. Maintain accurate lot traceability and inventory records for all sample room activities. Conduct routine inventory counts and reconciliations to ensure inventory accuracy. Remove expired, damaged, or obsolete samples from inventory and dispose of materials in accordance with company procedures. Maintain sample room cleanliness, organization, and operational efficiency. Print and prepare labels, shipping documents, and sample-related paperwork as required. Clean, sanitize, and maintain laboratory equipment, workspaces, and shared R&D areas. Support routine equipment maintenance, calibration activities, and laboratory housekeeping tasks. Identify sample room supply needs and communicate requirements to Supply Chain for replenishment. Follow all laboratory safety, GMP, food safety, and company operating procedures. Support continuous improvement initiatives related to sample fulfillment, inventory management, and laboratory operations. Other duties as assigned.

Ajinomoto is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis protected by state, federal, or local law.  All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.