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.

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 Food Innovation Team at Ajinomoto Health & Nutrition North America is seeking an organized and detail-oriented Food Science Laboratory Technician. This role requires providing technical support to the team of food scientists and culinary professionals who work with our diverse portfolio of food ingredients across a variety of applications. The individual will be responsible for: preparing standardized food ingredient product formulations; organization, maintenance, and upkeep of laboratory materials, equipment, and ingredients; maintenance of SDS and ingredient databases; general management of laboratory cleanliness.

EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:
• Bachelor’s degree in science-based curriculum, or associate degree with laboratory experience.
• Experience in a food, chemistry, or pharmaceutical laboratory strongly preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
• Strong math and science-related technical skills
• Transfer scientific knowledge to practical applications
• Able to take directions
• Will be directed by senior peers

WORKING CONDITIONS:
OCCUPATIONAL DEMANDS:
• Must be safety oriented
• May be asked to travel occasionally 
• Must have independent means of transportation

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds
• Must be able to stand for an extended period

• Perform and document processes, formulas, ingredients, and results related to production tests, samples and product evaluations consistent with Ajinomoto standard operating procedures.
• In partnership with and under the supervision of R&D team members, prepare standardized product formulations as directed in support of key projects or demonstrations across our product portfolio.
• Setting up ingredient and food sample cuttings and assisting in evaluation. Assisting with washing laboratory utensils, dishes, and glassware.
• Maintenance and organization of laboratory ingredients, materials, equipment, sample inventory, and database system. Coordination of equipment maintenance and waste disposal.
• Prepare product samples upon request, repackage as necessary.
• Assist in entering raw materials into the database system (or other formula management database system).
• Assist in conducting and participating in sensory evaluations of new products in collaboration with the sensory department. Participate in sensory panels, helping other technical personnel with their work.
• Assist in conducting and participating in shelf-life studies for Ajinomoto products following established shelf-life protocols.
• Manage and advance short-term projects under the supervision of more senior staff.
• Perform all work in accordance with Ajinomoto GMP, Allergen, and Quality Programs, and participate in annual training for these programs.
• fulfill sample requests and their shipping requirements on a daily basis
• Maintain stock of raw materials, laboratory supplies, product samples, and related materials.
• 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.