Fermentation Science Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

<div class="ql-align-justify"><strong><em>Have you ever enjoyed Arnold®, Brownberry® or Oroweat® bread? A Thomas’® English muffin or bagel? Or perhaps snacked on a Sara Lee®, Entenmann’s® or Marinela® cake or donut? If the answer is yes, then you know Bimbo Bakeries USA!</em></strong></div><div class="ql-align-justify"> </div><div class="ql-align-justify"><strong><em>More than 20,000 associates in bakeries, sales centers, offices and on sales routes work to ensure our consumers have the freshest products at every meal. In addition to competitive pay and benefits, we provide a safe and inclusive work environment that appreciates diversity, promotes development and allows our associates to be their authentic selves.</em></strong></div><div class="ql-align-justify"><strong><em>#LI-VB1</em></strong></div><div class="ql-align-center"><strong>Come join the largest baking company in the world and our family of 20,000 associates nationwide!</strong></div><div class="ql-align-center"><strong> </strong></div><div class="ql-align-center"><strong>Top Reasons to Work at Bimbo Bakeries USA:</strong></div><div class="ql-align-center"><strong>Salary Range: $94,300 - $122,600</strong></div><div class="ql-align-center"><strong>Comprehensive Benefits Package</strong></div><div class="ql-align-center"><strong>Annual Bonus Eligibility</strong></div><div class="ql-align-center"><strong>401k & Company Match</strong></div><div><strong> </strong></div><div><strong>***This position covers bakeries located in Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin***</strong></div><div><br></div><div><strong>Position Summary: </strong></div><div>The Quality Systems Specialist supports product quality, shelf life, and reformulation initiatives through analytical testing, data analysis, and cross-functional collaboration. This role partners with QFS, R&D, and Baking Technology teams to troubleshoot issues, optimize formulations, and ensure scalable, compliant solutions.</div><div><br></div><div><strong>Key Responsibilities:         </strong></div><div><strong>Analytical & Technical Support</strong></div><ul><li>Conduct testing on finished products and ingredients (pH, water activity, texture, shelf life).</li><li>Perform microbiological analysis (yeast & mold detection, trending).</li><li>Evaluate impact of reformulation on shelf life and mold control.</li><li>Apply knowledge of ingredient functionality (enzymes, preservatives, fermentation systems).</li><li>Support troubleshooting and continuous improvement initiatives.</li></ul><div><br></div><div><strong>Product Development & Validation</strong></div><ul><li>Support formulation development, optimization, and scale-up.</li><li>Participate in bench-top and plant trials.</li><li>Validate ingredient systems under commercial conditions.</li><li>Ensure alignment with reformulation requirements and claims.</li></ul><div> </div><div><strong>Data & Continuous Improvement</strong></div><ul><li>Analyze product and process data to identify trends and opportunities.</li><li>Conduct statistical analysis and support DOE (Design of Experiments).</li><li>Generate technical reports with clear, actionable recommendations.</li><li>Support process control updates and analytical method alignment.</li></ul><div> </div><div><strong>Cross-Functional Collaboration</strong></div><ul><li>Partner with QFS, Operations, R&D, and other teams to resolve product issues.</li><li>Support reformulation initiatives and testing methodologies.</li><li>Contribute to technical problem-solving and project alignment.</li></ul><div><br></div><div><strong>Education and Work History:</strong></div><ul><li>Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related field.</li><li>Experience with analytical testing and food microbiology (yeast & mold).</li><li>Knowledge of bakery systems, shelf-life control, and ingredient functionality.</li><li>Experience with data analysis tools (Excel, Minitab) and DOE (preferred).</li><li>Strong problem-solving, communication, and technical writing skills.</li></ul><div class="ql-align-center"><br></div><div><strong>Travel</strong></div><ul><li>60% travel required.</li><li>Includes plant trials, validations, and cross-functional project support.</li></ul><div> </div><div class="ql-align-justify"><span>The physical and mental demands described in each job posting are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of each job. Reasonable accommodations may be requested to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of each job. </span></div><div class="ql-align-justify"><br></div><div class="ql-align-justify"><span>Bimbo Bakeries USA is an equal opportunity employer with a policy that provides equal employment opportunity for applicants and employees regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, any other classification protected by law. </span></div><div class="ql-align-justify"><br></div><div class="ql-align-justify"><span>It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.</span></div>