1

Senior Science Writer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a Senior Scientist to lead the development and validation of new molecular assays ... Excellent oral and written communication skills. * Ability to manage competing priorities and ...

NGS Senior Scientist 1

Chicago, IL · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Scientist to lead the development and validation of new molecular assays ... Excellent oral and written communication skills. * Ability to manage competing priorities and ...

Senior R&D Scientist

Dakota, IL · On-site

$93K - $119K/yr

Master's preferred in Dairy Science * Preferred 5+ years of food product development and ... Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal) * Demonstrated ability to ...

Our mission is to deliver high-quality service and technology solutions - rooted in strong science ... Write and edit clinical development documents, including but not limited to, clinical protocols ...

Our mission is to deliver high-quality service and technology solutions - rooted in strong science ... Write and edit clinical development documents, including but not limited to, clinical protocols ...

Senior Biostatistician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90 - $100/hr

Senior Biostatistician Thank you for your interest in Loyola University Chicago. To view open ... Strong scientific writing skills with a track record of contributing to peer-reviewed publications ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Science Writer information

See Illinois salary details

$29.6K

$89.7K

$165.7K

How much do senior science writer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior science writer in Illinois is $89,692.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,800.00 and $97,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior science writer?

A Senior Science Writer is a professional who creates and edits scientific content for various audiences, including researchers, policymakers, and the general public. They work closely with scientists, subject matter experts, and communication teams to translate complex scientific information into clear, engaging, and accurate materials. Their work may include writing articles, reports, press releases, white papers, and grant proposals. They often have a background in science or journalism and must possess strong writing, research, and editing skills. Depending on the organization, they may also oversee junior writers, manage projects, and ensure consistency in scientific messaging.

What are typical daily responsibilities for a senior science writer?

A Senior Science Writer typically drafts and edits articles, research summaries, press releases, and technical documents for print or digital publication. They often interview scientists, attend research meetings, and translate complex data into accessible language for various audiences. Collaboration with editors, graphic designers, and subject matter experts is common to ensure accuracy and engaging presentation. Additionally, Senior Science Writers may mentor junior writers, contribute to editorial strategy, and help coordinate publication schedules, offering a dynamic and multifaceted work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior science writer?

To thrive as a Senior Science Writer, you need exceptional writing and editing skills, advanced scientific literacy (often supported by a degree in a science discipline), and a proven track record in science communication. Familiarity with publishing platforms, reference management tools, and proficiency in editing or style guide systems (such as AMA or APA) is commonly expected. Outstanding soft skills include attention to detail, the ability to translate complex concepts for diverse audiences, project management, and collaborative teamwork. These capabilities ensure scientifically accurate, engaging content that meets both editorial standards and audience needs, while supporting collaboration with subject matter experts.

What are the most commonly searched types of Science Writer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Science Writer jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Science Writer jobs in Illinois?

For Senior Science Writer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Science Writer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Science Writer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Senior Science Writer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Senior Science Writer job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Science Writer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,692 per year, or $43.1 per hour.

Sr Sci, R&D - Fermentation Scientist

Kraft Heinz Company

Glenview, IL • On-site

$89K - $112K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Design and execute research projects related to microbiology and fermentation technology.

  • Perform bench microbiology techniques and small-scale fermentation runs to model and optimize process conditions.

  • Partner with cross-functional teams to support projects from concept through commercialization and communicate results.


Kraft Heinz rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 124 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

217th of 445 rated food and drinks producers


Job description


Senior Scientist, R&D - Fermentation Scientist
The Senior Scientist, R&D - Fermentation Scientist is part of the central Research & Development organization on the Fermentation & Biotechnology team at the Kraft Heinz Innovation Center in Glenview, IL. This role leads microbiology and fermentation technology development through the design and execution of research projects. The role combines hands-on bench microbiology, bench- and pilot-scale fermentation, and understanding of commercial-scale processes.
This person will apply strong scientific judgment to solve technical challenges, translate findings into clear recommendations, and connect technical work to business and commercialization needs. Success in this role requires critical thinking, collaboration, project leadership, and comfort working with ambiguity.
This role partners closely with internal brand R&D teams and cross-functional stakeholders, including R&D, Procurement, Operations, Quality, Regulatory, and external scientific collaborators.
KEY COMPONENTS OF THE ROLE:
  • Diagnose microbial, process, and equipment-related deviations in culture production, and partner with Operations and R&D to resolve root causes

  • Provide technical guidance on dairy starter culture performance, stability, and strain behavior under manufacturing conditions

  • Perform bench microbiology, including plating, enumeration, isolation, strain verification, and media design and optimization for lactic and acetic acid bacteria

  • Conduct small-scale fermentation runs using INFORS and Eppendorf DASGIP systems to model and optimize process conditions

  • Design experiments to optimize fermentation processes and translate bench findings to pilot scale

  • Design, support, and execute microbiology and fermentation research projects, then summarize results for technical and non-technical audiences

  • Apply scientific principles to new situations and products while managing work with a high degree of autonomy

  • Build proof of concept and business cases for innovative ideas

  • Identify and communicate the broader implications of proof-of-concept results, including financial impact, scale-up risks, and timeline considerations

  • Independently lead internal research projects and external collaborations

  • Partner with cross-functional teams to lead and support projects from concept through commercialization, including Marketing, Operations, Quality, External Manufacturers, and Procurement

  • Maintain accurate lab records, SOPs, and technical reports

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • B.S. degree in Microbiology, Food Science and Technology, Fermentation Sciences, or related fields. M.S. or PhD preferred

  • Minimum of 4 years of relevant experience with Bachelor's degree OR 3 years of relevant experience with Master's OR 2 years of relevant experience with PhD

  • Strong working knowledge of lactic acid bacteria, acetic acid bacteria, and microbial physiology relevant to food fermentation

  • Experience with operating bench scale fermenter systems. Experience with INFORS or Eppendorf DASGIP systems preferred

  • Familiarity with commercial fermentation systems required

  • Demonstrated proficiency in plating, enumeration, strain isolation, and general microbiological techniques

  • Experience or familiarity with starter culture manufacturing

  • Familiarity with microbial genetics, strain characterization, molecular tools, and metagenomic analyses

  • Strong critical thinking skills and ability to make connections to the big picture and understanding of business impact

  • Strong understanding of Design of Experiments, laboratory experimentation, and data analysis skills.

  • Ability to interpret data, identify process deviations, and propose solutions

  • Strong written and verbal communication, interpersonal, and project management skills.

  • Willingness to travel up to 10-30% of the time.

Our Total Rewards philosophy is to provide a meaningful and flexible spectrum of programs that equitably support our diverse workforce and their families and complement Kraft Heinz' strategy and values.
New Hire Base Salary Range:
$89,800.00 - $112,200.00
Bonus: This position is eligible for a performance-based bonus as provided by the plan terms and governing documents.
The compensation offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors
Benefits: Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and saving for the future, we offer plans tailored to meet you and your family's needs. Coverage for benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.
Wellbeing: We offer events, resources, and learning opportunities that inspire a physical, social, emotional, and financial well-being lifestyle for our employees and their families.
You'll be able to participate in a variety of benefits and wellbeing programs that may vary by role, country, region, union status, and other employment status factors, for example:
  • Physical - Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Screenings/Assessments
  • Social - Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Flexible Work Arrangements, Recognition, Training
  • Emotional - Employee Assistance Program , Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs
  • Financial - 401k, Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability

Location(s)
Glenview R&D Center
Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Underrepresented Ethnic Minority Groups/Women/Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity and other protected classes. In order to ensure reasonable accommodation for protected individuals, applicants that require accommodation in the job application process may contact NAZTAOps@kraftheinz.com for assistance.

What Kraft Heinz employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom