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Scientist Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

Data Scientist About Us: At Codvo, we are committed to building scalable, future-ready data platforms that power business impact. We believe in a culture of innovation, collaboration, and growth ...

Extrusion Scientist - Decatur, ILPosition SummaryExtrusion Scientist II role is an independent technical contributor responsible for leading innovation in extrusion-based food systems, with a focus ...

Food Scientist - Bakery - Decatur, ILThe Food Scientist - Bakery will utilize their food science expertise to drive sales through the development of compelling, innovative and winning products. This ...

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Scientist information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$45

$48

$50

How much do scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for scientist in Decatur, IL is $48.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.12 and $49.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Scientist do?

A Scientist is a professional who conducts research to increase knowledge in a specific field, such as biology, chemistry, physics, or environmental science. They design and perform experiments, analyze data, and publish their findings to advance understanding and solve real-world problems. Scientists may work in laboratories, universities, government agencies, or private industry. Their work often contributes to technological advancements, public health, and policy development.

What Does a Scientist Do?

Scientists work in a remarkably diverse array of industries. Companies employ scientists to develop and improve products. Universities hire scientists to teach and do research in different disciplines; healthcare companies have a team of scientists working on medications, vaccines, and new treatments; and governments employ scientists to help with public projects. Scientists not only perform their specific job duties, but they contribute to the broader scientific community to increase knowledge of the physical world.

What is the difference between Scientist vs Chemist?

AspectScientistChemist
Required CredentialsBachelor's, Master's, or PhD in science-related fieldsBachelor's, Master's, or PhD in chemistry or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, industry settingsLaboratories, manufacturing plants, research institutions
Industry UsageBroadly used across scientific research, academia, industryPrimarily in chemical manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, quality control

While both Scientists and Chemists work in research and laboratory settings, Scientists have a broader scope across various scientific fields, whereas Chemists specialize specifically in chemistry. Chemists often focus on chemical reactions, compounds, and materials, while Scientists may work in multiple disciplines such as biology, physics, or environmental science. The roles overlap in credentials and work environments, but their specific focus areas differ based on industry needs.

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 solid background in your scientific discipline, strong analytical skills, and typically at least a bachelor's or advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as MATLAB or R), and adherence to safety protocols are commonly required. Critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating and sharing findings. These skills ensure rigorous research, reliable results, and impactful contributions to scientific advancement.

What are some common challenges scientists face when working on multidisciplinary research teams?

Scientists often collaborate with experts from various fields, which can present challenges such as differing terminologies, research methodologies, and expectations. Navigating these differences requires strong communication skills, adaptability, and a willingness to learn from other disciplines. Successful multidisciplinary teamwork often leads to innovative solutions, but it also demands effective project management and regular coordination to ensure all team members are aligned toward shared goals.
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Scientist jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Scientist job openings:
Infographic showing various Scientist job openings in Decatur, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,372 per year, or $48.3 per hour.
Data Scientist-Direct Hire

$74K/yr

Other

Posted 8 days ago


U.S. Department Of The Treasury rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

235th of 692 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

WHAT IS DATA AND ANALYTICS (DAO)-RESEARCH, APPLIED ANALYTICS & STATISTICS (RAAS)?
A description of the business units can be found at: https://www.jobs.irs.gov/about/who/business-divisions

  • Position(s) are to be filled in the following area(s):
    • DAO - DATA AND ANALYTICS
  • Consider each location carefully when applying. If you are selected for a location, that location will become your official post of duty.
REVIEW THE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION BELOW FOR FURTHER DETAILSQualifications:Federal experience is not required. Experience may have been gained in the public sector, private sector or through Volunteer Service. One year of experience refers to full-time work; part-timework is considered on a prorated basis. To ensure full credit for your work experience, please indicate dates of employment by month/day/year, and indicate number of hours worked per week, on your resume.
You must meet the following requirements by the cut-off dates as shown in announcement under the 'How to Apply' section.
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: To qualify for this position, you must meet the qualification requirements outlined below:
BASIC REQUIREMENTS All GRADES: EDUCATION:
You must have a bachelor's or higher degree in mathematics, statistics, computer science, data science or other field directly related to the position. The degree must be in a major field of study (at least at the baccalaureate level) that is appropriate for the position.
OR
COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: You may qualify with an equivalent combination of qualifying experience and education with at least 30 semester hours related to Mathematics, statistics, computer science, data science or field directly related to the position. The degree must be in a major field of study (at least at the baccalaureate level) that is appropriate for the position.
EDUCATION/SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE FOR GS-11: In addition to meeting basic requirements, to be eligible for this position, you must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at a level of difficulty and responsibility equivalent to the GS-09 grade level in the Federal Service. Specialized experience for this position includes: Applying descriptive or inferential statistical methods to analyze data, identify trends or patterns, evaluate results, and develop findings, reports, or recommendations; Using programming, query, or scripting languages, such as Structured Query Language (SQL), R, Python, SAS, or equivalent tools, to extract, transform, analyze, or prepare data for analysis; Experience manipulating datasets in relational databases (e.g., Compliance Data Warehouse, Enterprise Data Platform); Applying statistical or data science techniques, such as forecasting, predictive modeling, machine learning, optimization, or exploratory data analysis, to evaluate data or support analytic findings; and Creating reports, dashboards, visualizations, written summaries, or presentations to communicate statistical or technical findings to technical or non-technical audiences.
OR
EDUCATION: You may substitute education for specialized experience as follows: A Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree as described in the basic requirements in mathematics, statistics, computer science, data science or field directly related to the position. The degree must be in a major field of study (at least at the baccalaureate level) that is appropriate for the position.
OR
Three (3) full academic years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a PH.D or equivalent doctoral degree in mathematics, statistics, computer science, data science or field directly related to the position. The degree must be in a major field of study (at least at the baccalaureate level) that is appropriate for the position.
OR
COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: You may qualify with an equivalent combination of qualifying experience and education.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE GRADE 12: In addition to the basic requirements above, to be eligible for this position at the GS-12 level, you must have one (1) year of specialized experience at a level of difficulty and responsibility equivalent to the GS-11 grade level in the Federal service. Specialized experience for this position includes experience performing all the following:
  • Planning and carrying out data analysis assignments by applying descriptive or inferential statistical methods to analyze data from multiple sources, validate results, identify trends or patterns, and develop findings, reports, or recommendations.
  • Using programming, query, or scripting languages, such as Structured Query Language (SQL), R, Python, SAS, or equivalent tools, to extract, transform, validate, analyze, visualize, or document structured or unstructured data for data science projects.
  • Experience manipulating datasets in relational databases (e.g., Compliance Data Warehouse, Enterprise Data Platform).
  • Applying statistical or data science techniques, such as forecasting, predictive modeling, machine learning, optimization, prescriptive analysis, or exploratory data analysis, to evaluate data, models, programs, or operations and make projections or recommendations.
  • Creating and presenting reports, dashboards, visualizations, written summaries, or presentations that explain statistical or technical methods, findings, limitations, or recommendations to managers, stakeholders, customers, or project teams.

SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE GRADE 13: In addition to the basic requirements above, to be eligible for this position at the GS-13 level, you must have one (1) year of specialized experience at a level of difficulty and responsibility equivalent to the GS-12 grade level in the Federal service. Specialized experience for this position includes experience performing all the following:
  • Independently planning and carrying out data science or statistical analysis projects by defining analytic questions, selecting data sources or methods, analyzing structured or unstructured data, validating results, and developing findings or recommendations.
  • Developing or applying statistical, machine learning, operations research, or other data science methods to evaluate programs, operations, compliance, or organizational performance, for example forecasting, predictive or prescriptive modeling, optimization, natural language processing or text analytics, graph or link analysis, or exploratory data analysis.
  • Using programming, query, scripting, or analytic tools, such as Structured Query Language (SQL), R, Python, SAS, or equivalent tools, to prepare, transform, document, analyze, and visualize data for data science projects.
  • Experience manipulating datasets in relational databases (e.g., Compliance Data Warehouse, Enterprise Data Platform).
  • Documenting analytic approaches, assumptions, limitations, validation results, success measures, or key performance indicators, and presenting technical findings or recommendations to managers, stakeholders, customers, or cross-functional teams.

AND
You must also meet the following requirements:
  • MINIMUM AGE REQUIREMENT: Minimum age for federal employment is 18 years old, or at least 16 years old and have:
    • Graduated from high school or been awarded a certificate equivalent to graduating from high school; or
    • Completed a formal vocational training program; or
    • Received a statement from school authorities agreeing with your preference for employment rather than continuing your education

For more information on qualifications please refer to OPM's Qualifications Standards.Education:A college or university degree generally must be from an accredited (or pre-accredited) college or university recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. For a list of schools which meet these criteria, please refer to Department of Education Accreditation page.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying. Click here (Section 3, Explanation of Terms) or here for Foreign Education Credentialing instructions.
We recommend choosing an evaluator from a member organization of one of the following national associations of credential evaluation services: National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or Association of International Credentials Evaluators (AICE).Employment Type: OTHER

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