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Science Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

ADM

Extrusion Scientist - Decatur, IL

Decatur, IL · On-site

$60K - $92K/yr

This role owns projects from concept through commercialization, applying advanced food science and process engineering expertise to deliver scalable, high-quality solutions.Key ...

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$23.8K

$46.9K

$76.6K

How much do science jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for science in Decatur, IL is $46,938.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,300.00 and $50,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are science jobs?

Science jobs encompass a wide range of careers that involve researching, analyzing, and applying scientific principles to solve problems and advance knowledge. These roles can be found in various fields such as biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, and more. Science professionals may work in laboratories, research institutions, academia, industry, or government agencies, often focusing on experimentation, data analysis, and innovation. Their work contributes to technological advancements, public health, environmental protection, and education.

What science careers are in demand?

As technology continues to advance, the demand for science professionals continues to increase. One of the science careers in highest demand is a research technician. A research technician’s duties are to set up, operate, and maintain lab equipment. Another in-demand job is that of a senior researcher. A senior researcher’s responsibilities are to work in a lab and conduct experiments. Other science jobs with significant demand include that of clinical project manager, chief scientific officer, and biotechnology specialist. Chemists, engineers, physicists, geologists, and technical writers are all science jobs currently in high demand.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Scientist, you need a strong background in scientific methodology, data analysis, and subject-specific knowledge, typically supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a science field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical software, and data management systems is often required, along with relevant certifications depending on specialization. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for designing experiments and sharing findings. These skills ensure accurate research, meaningful discoveries, and clear dissemination of scientific knowledge.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in scientific research roles?

Professionals in scientific research often encounter challenges such as securing funding for projects, managing tight deadlines for experiments, and adapting to rapidly evolving technologies. Collaboration across multidisciplinary teams is frequent, requiring clear communication and strong project management skills. Additionally, interpreting complex data and publishing results in reputable journals can be demanding but are essential for career progression in the field.

What is the difference between Science vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectScienceLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in science or related fieldAssociate's degree or certification in laboratory technology
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, industry research centersClinical, industrial, or research laboratories
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, research institutions, private companiesHospitals, diagnostic labs, manufacturing plants
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on research, analysis, and scientific discoveryFocuses on conducting tests, preparing samples, and supporting research

Science professionals typically engage in research, experimentation, and analysis within labs or academic settings, often requiring advanced degrees. Laboratory Technicians support these efforts by performing tests, preparing samples, and maintaining lab equipment, usually with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in scientific and industrial environments, but their responsibilities and educational requirements differ significantly.

What are some careers in science?

Careers in science include roles such as research scientist, laboratory technician, environmental scientist, biologist, chemist, physicist, and data analyst. These positions often require strong analytical skills, knowledge of scientific methods, and proficiency with specialized tools or laboratory equipment.
More about Science jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Science jobs in Decatur, IL?

The most popular types of Science jobs in Decatur, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Science jobs in Decatur, IL?

For Science jobs in Decatur, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Science jobs?

Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Science job openings:

Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Science job openings in Decatur, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,938 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Lipid Science & Applications Scientist I - Decatur, IL

Decatur, IL • On-site

Archer Daniels Midland
Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Archer Daniels Midlandexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Key responsibilities

  • Assist in managing the LS&A lab to ensure equipment is calibrated and maintained, supporting accurate analytical work.

  • Run benchtop and pilot plant equipment, including enzymatic interesterification, deodorization, and heat exchange units, to support product development and optimization.

  • Design and evaluate experiments related to oil modification, oxidative stability, and physical and chemical properties of oils and fats.

ADM rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description


Lipid Science & Applications / Oil Processing - Scientist I - Decatur, IL
The ADM R&D Lipid Science & Applications Group (LS&A) & Oil Processing Group is seeking candidates for a scientist to work on a variety of projects to support ADM's Refined Oils business, with emphasis on running and maintaining the pilot plant equipment and laboratory oil processing equipment. This role will also require knowledge in lipids to support basic research, product development, lipid analysis, lipid modification and other areas of lipid product and process support. The candidate will have the responsibility in maintaining laboratory notebooks to effectively capture work done to support the Lipid Science & Applications / Oil Processing group, as well as strong written and verbal skill to report findings of supportive work. The candidate will need to work closely with the ADM LS&A team, Oil Processing team, ADM Refined Oils Sales & Technical Support and ADM Production personnel to support the ADM Oils business.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Assist in managing the LS&A lab to ensure wet chemistry and analytical equipment is calibrated and maintained appropriately with confidence that analytical information is accurate and reliable.
  • Ability to follow approved methods and SOPs to support bench and pilot plant work.
  • Ability to review, update and write SOPs and perform job safety assessments (JSA)
  • Demonstrate the highest level of safety and consideration for others working in the pilot plant
  • Ability to run benchtop and pilot enzymatic interesterification equipment to support ADM Oils, develop new products and optimize existing products.
  • Ability to run bench top and pilot deodorization equipment to support ADM Oils, develop new products and optimize existing products.
  • Ability to blend oils from the bench to the pilot area blending tanks (4000 lbs.)
  • Ability to run and operate pilot plant scraped surface heat exchanger units.
  • Assist in the design of experiments to study the impact of fat & oil modification techniques influence on the physical and chemical behavior of oils and fats in the neat state or in food systems.
  • Assist in the design of experiments to evaluate the oxidative stability of oils and fats to better understand the role of antioxidants, storage conditions and processing parameters on the oxidative stability of oils.
  • Submit oils samples to central analytical services to support LS&A and Technical Services and interpret the results.
  • Evaluate and develop new methods to characterize the physical and chemical properties of oils and fats.
  • MS Excel, PowerPoint and Word knowledge, and accurate electronic lab notebook reporting skills to support project work.
  • Support R&D in the discovery, development, and scale up oilseeds production and refining processes.
  • Support Operations in troubleshooting and optimizing current oilseeds related processes, including working with various feedstocks for manufacture, production, purification, stabilization, and packaging of vegetable oils, fats, and specialty oils to support customers and commercial teams .
Desired Requirements and Qualifications:
  • Bachelor of Science or Master's degree within food science, biological science, chemistry or material science curriculums.
  • Experience with running and working with food ingredient processing equipment and strong mechanical aptitude.
  • Knowledge of oils and fats fundamentals (lipid oxidation, lipid crystallization and function in food systems).
  • Knowledge of analytical techniques used to characterize the physical and chemical characteristics of oils and fats.
  • Academic or experience in the area of lipid science and applications or food applications.
  • Ability to move 420 lb. drums of oil and 2000 lb. totes of oil via electric pallet jack.
  • Knowledge of lipid nutrition and nutritional labeling regulation.
  • Experimental design and monitoring skills.
  • Strong colleague and customer interaction skills.

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:110455BR
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.
#IncludingYou
Diversity, 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
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.
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:

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