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Fermentation Process Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Scientist (III) Small Scale Fermentation - Proteins, Decatur, IL ADM Research & Development This is ... with strain engineering group, analytical group, enzyme assay group and engage with process ...

Engineer 2, iPROOF

Decatur, IL · On-site

$82.05 - $102.57/hr

The Engineer 2 will support microbial fermentation and downstream processes at pilot and demonstration scales while driving process robustness, manufacturing readiness, technology transfer ...

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Science, or a related technical field * Experience in sales ... Knowledge of fermentation processes or industrial manufacturing environments * Proven ability to ...

Bachelor's degree in relevant scientific, engineering or business discipline, MBA preferred. * Understanding of the fermentation processes used in the Plant Health industry is desired. * Demonstrated ...

Showing results 21-40

Fermentation Process Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$48K

$89.2K

$138.1K

How much do fermentation process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for fermentation process engineer in Illinois is $89,167.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,200.00 and $99,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a fermentation process engineer do?

A Fermentation Process Engineer specializes in designing, optimizing, and overseeing the industrial fermentation processes used to produce products such as pharmaceuticals, food additives, biofuels, and chemicals. Their responsibilities include scaling up laboratory processes to industrial levels, monitoring process parameters, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring that production meets quality and safety standards. They often work closely with microbiologists, chemists, and production teams to improve yields and efficiency while minimizing costs and environmental impact.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fermentation process engineer?

To thrive as a Fermentation Process Engineer, you need a strong background in chemical engineering, microbiology, or biotechnology, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with bioreactor systems, process control software, and statistical analysis tools, as well as certifications like Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing, is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and troubleshoot complex processes. These skills are essential to optimize production, ensure product quality, and drive innovation in fermentation-based manufacturing.

What are some common challenges faced by fermentation process engineers during scale-up from lab to production?

Fermentation Process Engineers often encounter challenges when scaling up processes from the lab or pilot scale to full production, such as maintaining consistent product yields, ensuring sterility, and achieving optimal mixing and oxygen transfer. Differences in equipment size and configuration can affect heat and mass transfer rates, making it necessary to adjust parameters and monitor the process closely. Effective communication with cross-functional teams, including microbiologists and production operators, is crucial to address these issues and implement solutions promptly.

What is the difference between Fermentation Process Engineer vs Microbiologist?

AspectFermentation Process EngineerMicrobiologist
CredentialsBachelor's in Chemical, Biochemical, or related engineering fieldBachelor's or higher in Microbiology or related science
Work EnvironmentIndustrial fermentation facilities, manufacturing plantsResearch labs, clinical or environmental settings
Industry UsageBiotech, pharmaceuticals, food & beverage manufacturingResearch institutions, biotech, healthcare
Common Search IntentOptimizing fermentation processes, scale-upStudying microbial behavior, research

While both roles involve microbiology, the Fermentation Process Engineer focuses on designing, optimizing, and scaling fermentation processes in industrial settings. In contrast, Microbiologists primarily conduct research and study microorganisms, often in lab environments. The engineer's role is more application-driven within manufacturing, whereas microbiologists focus on scientific understanding.

What are popular job titles related to Fermentation Process Engineer jobs in Illinois?

For Fermentation Process Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Fermentation Process Engineer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Fermentation Process Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

Infographic showing various Fermentation Process Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,167 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

Scientist (I) Small Scale Fermentation - Proteins, Decatur, IL

ADM

Decatur, IL • On-site

$49K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


ADM rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

76th of 366 rated logistics


Job description

Job Description Scientist (I) Small Scale Fermentation - Proteins, Decatur, ILADM Research & DevelopmentThis is an exempt level position.Position SummaryThe Small Scale Fermentation - Proteins team, located within R&D headquarter at Decatur IL, is recruiting a motivated scientist to execute bench-scale fermentation experiments in supporting critical biotechnology projects with a heavy focus on Proteins fermentation processes.This role is for lab-focused operational team, and the candidates will be responsible for carrying out fermentation operation using several types of cutting-edge bench top bioreactors. As member of this newly created team, the successful candidate will participate in strain evaluations of a variety of microbial hosts and contribute to the earliest stages of fast-paced bioprocess development by providing critical feedback on strain performance and physiology. The scientist will collaborate frequently with strain engineering group, analytical group, enzyme assay group and engage with process development group further with tech transfer, process optimization and scale up discussions.This team member will assist the small-scale fermentation team with the setup, execution, and troubleshooting of fermentation experiments. They will perform regular maintenance of laboratory equipment and will regularly engage with continuous improvement of fermentation processes, expansion of lab capabilities, and addressing operational and safety issues.Job ResponsibilitiesWork within a team to execute fermentation experiments with bench scale fermenters, including media preparation, vessel setup and operations, aseptic inoculation, sampling, and cleanup, along with data organizationConduct fermentation sample preparations for comprehensive analysisConduct basic maintenance of fermentation and analytical equipment while maintaining a clean laboratory workspaceDevelop fermentation protocols and create corresponding documentation including Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Job Safety Assessments (JSAs)Contribute to continuous improvement efforts on execution of fermentations and building lab capabilitiesMaintain thorough documentation using an electronic lab notebookOccasional weekend or evening work may be requiredMust be able to safely lift 50lbsSkills and ProficienciesThe preferred candidate is self-motivated and driven by a strong sense of scientific curiosity and rigorAdditional qualifications include:MSc or BSc with 1-4 years of relevant experience in microbiology, fermentation science, or related fieldExperience with lab scale industrial microbiology research, including with aerobic or anaerobic fermentation of bacteria, yeast, or filamentous fungiFamiliarity with benchtop fermentation equipment and operation, hands-on experience with fed-batch fermentation is preferredExperience with microbiology sample analysis (e.g. OD, CEDEX, pH, density, dry cell weight) is preferredMust have a strong safety mindset, and experience with biological and chemical laboratory safety protocols is a plusAbility to work collaboratively within a diverse, multidisciplinary teamExcited 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:112594BR Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. If hired, employees will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors. The pay range for this position is expected to be between: $49,000.00 - $91,000.00 Benefits and Perks Enriching the quality of life for the world begins by taking care of our colleagues. In addition to competitive pay, we support your diverse needs with a comprehensive total rewards package to enhance your well-being, including: Physical wellness - medical/Rx, dental, vision and on-site wellness center access or gym reimbursement (as applicable). Financial wellness - flexible spending accounts, health savings account, 401(k) with matching contributions and cash balance plan, discounted employee stock purchasing program, life insurance, disability, workers' compensation, legal assistance, identity theft protection. Mental and social wellness - Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Colleague Giving Programs (ADM Cares). Additional benefits include: Paid time off including paid holidays. Adoption assistance and paid maternity and parental leave. Tuition assistance. Company-sponsored training and development resources, such as LinkedIn Learning, language training and mentoring programs. *Benefits may vary for bargained locations, confirm benefit eligibility with your recruiter. #IncludingYouDiversity, 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 About ADM At ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry-advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We're a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world's premier agricultural origination and processing company. Our breadth, depth, insights, facilities and logistical expertise give us unparalleled capabilities to meet needs for food, beverages, health and wellness, and more. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we enrich the quality of life the world over. Learn more at www.adm.com.

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