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Scientist Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

Either an Associate of Science or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ASN or BSN) * Valid IL license A Day One 401(k) program YOU'LL RECEIVE EMPLOYER-MATCHING CONTRIBUTIONS ONCE ELIGIBLE. Licensing ...

Lab Technician

Decatur, IL · On-site

$18/hr

We encourage candidates who are passionate about scientific research and eager to contribute to innovative projects to apply for this exciting opportunity as a Laboratory Technician.Job Type: Full ...

MLT

Clinton, IL · On-site

Degree in Medical Technology/Lab Science or a related biological science, ASCP certified as an MLT or MT/MLS. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. or more and follow proper body mechanics as relates to ...

Lab Technician

Decatur, IL · On-site

$18/hr

Perform light maintenance and calibration on lab equipment Experience * 2 or more years of experience with science degree preferred * Good attendance history * Excellent safety record and awareness

Perform light maintenance and calibration on lab equipment Experience * 2 or more years of experience with science degree preferred * Good attendance history * Excellent safety record and awareness

MLT

Clinton, IL · On-site

Quick Start Position Overview Warner Hospital & Health Services is seeking an experienced Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT), Medical Technologist (MT), or Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) for a ...

MLT

Clinton, IL · On-site

Quick Start Position Overview Warner Hospital & Health Services is seeking an experienced Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT), Medical Technologist (MT), or Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) for a ...

Fermentation Scientist/Engineer - Decatur, ILADM Research & DevelopmentThis is an exempt level position.Position Summary:We are seeking an experienced fermentation scientist/engineer to lead the ...

Join Our Talent Community

Clinton, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Every day, you help turn innovation into impact, using science, technology, and creativity to tackle real-world challenges that matter. At TekniPlex, our work touches everyday life in meaningful ways.

We are seeking an experienced fermentation scientist/engineer to lead the design, optimization, and scale-up of commercial ethanol fermentation processes. The ideal candidate is a hands-on technical ...

Showing results 21-40

Scientist information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$45

$48

$50

How much do scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 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 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 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 jobs can you get with a scientist?

A scientist can work in various roles such as research scientist, laboratory technician, data analyst, or environmental consultant. These positions often require strong analytical skills, knowledge of scientific methods, and proficiency with tools like laboratory equipment or data analysis software.

What jobs do scientists have?

Scientists work in various fields such as biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, and medicine. They conduct research, analyze data, and develop new theories or products, often working in laboratories, research institutions, or academic settings. Many scientists also collaborate with other professionals and require specialized skills and certifications depending on their area of expertise.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,372 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

Technical Manager, R&D Ops Excellence Carbs - Decatur, IL

ADM

Decatur, IL

$92K - $171K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 hours 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 Technical Manager, R&D Ops Excellence Carbs - Decatur, ILJob Description ADM is seeking a Technical Manager of R&D Operational Excellence - Carbohydrates Solutions to support and influence corn processing cost margins by improving operational capability via R&D initiatives. In this role, you will leverage deep technical and scientific knowledge of corn processing to develop R&D-based initiatives that reduce unit cost and drive the adoption of cutting-edge technologies. Success in this position implements initiatives to create durable competitive advantage through higher asset productivity, lower variability, and improved cost discipline.This role would partner with Operations (including Engineering and Technology center), Global Ops, Supply Chain, and Finance to reduce cost per unit, improve asset utilization, and embed a culture of continuous improvement. This role ensures that operational improvements translate into verified financial impact by bridging the scientific innovation of R&D with manufacturing execution.Key ResponsibilitiesLead and support R&D initiatives to reduce cost per ton/unit across corn processing facilities by applying scientific process knowledge and novel R&D technologies.Lead and support R&D initiatives on yield variance using scientific principles and advanced data analytics.Identify and drive implementation of R&D initiatives that directly improve OEE, yield, labor productivity, and overhead absorption through rigorous technical analysis and advanced manufacturing integration.Drive waste elimination and by-product optimization through innovative technical solutions.Use standard productivity metrics and benchmarking across plants to evaluate the success of newly adopted technologies against established KPIs.Establish technical cost baselines and performance scorecards for R&D-driven corn processing operational initiatives.Ensure R&D lead initiatives identify high level countermeasures to ensure sustainment for project scale up. Partner with Finance and Operations to validate savings, prevent double counting, and track sustainment of R&D driven initiatives.Network with similar corn processing locations to promote replication, implementation and sustainment of high-impact R&D initiatives.Qualifications & CompetenciesEducation & ExperienceBachelor's degree in Engineering, Sciences, Technology, with a strong preference for degrees in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Chemistry, or Food Science.10+ years of experience in corn processing or similar manufacturing.Deep technical and scientific understanding of corn process manufacturing, reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and scale-up methodologies.Financial understanding of corn processing operational KPIs and their impact on P&Ls to support R&D driven initiatives.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:110419BR 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: $92,800.00 - $171,600.00 Salaried Incentive PlanThe total compensation package for this position will also include annual bonus and a long-term incentive plan 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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