Senior Beverage Applications Scientist

Senior Beverage Applications Scientist

Bell Flavors & Fragrances

Northbrook, IL

$95K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Bell Flavors & Fragrances is seeking a creative and technically skilled Senior Beverage Applications Scientist to join our Flavors R&D team. In this role, you’ll develop, test, and optimize flavor systems for a wide range of beverage applications—including alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. You’ll collaborate cross-functionally with sales, marketing, sensory, and flavor creation teams to deliver outstanding solutions for our customers and drive internal development initiatives.

Your Key Responsibilities:

  • Formulate, bench-test, and optimize beverages (carbonated drinks, juices, plant-based beverages, RTD cocktails, alcohol, energy drinks, etc.) using our internal flavor library
  • Select and apply flavors based on customer briefs, market trends, and regulatory requirements
  • Collaborate with flavorists to match and modify flavors for optimal performance
  • Troubleshoot formulation, processing, and shelf-life challenges
  • Support customer presentations and innovation showcase
  • Maintain accurate records in laboratory information management systems (LIMS)
  • Mentor and coach junior scientists, technicians, and interns
  • Support pilot plant trials and scale-up activities
  • Ensure lab safety, cleanliness, and regulatory compliance

Your Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in food science, Chemistry, or related field
  • 7–10+ years of experience in beverage formulation, product development, or flavor applications lab (internships/co-ops count)
  • Experience across multiple beverage types and understanding unique formulation challenges
  • Familiarity with emulsions, acidulants, sweetener systems, protein powders, dairy/nondairy ingredients, and functional ingredients
  • Skilled in analytical tools (pH meters, Brix, titratable acidity, etc.)
  • Sensory acuity and ability to articulate flavor performance
  • Strong presentation, organizational, and communication skills
  • Mathematical skills for calculations, proportions, percentages, weights, and algebra
  • Team-oriented, adaptable, and able to manage multiple projects

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with alcoholic beverage formulation or TTB regulations
  • Experience with alcoholic beverage formulation or TTB regulations
  • Proficiency with Genesis R&D, Excel, or LIMS (PV)
  • Pilot plant or manufacturing trial experience
  • Regulatory or labeling knowledge for global beverage markets
  • Knowledge of ISO 9001, cGMP, GLP standards
  • Experience with laboratory safety audits and compliance documentation

Why join us:

  • Competitive salary range of $95,000 - $105,000
  • Full-time benefits package
  • Opportunities for professional growth and development
  • Be part of a supportive and collaborative team
  • Commitment to diversity and inclusion

Ready to shape the future of beverage innovation? Apply today and join a team committed to safety, quality, and creativity!




Frequently asked questions

Q: What skills or qualities help someone succeed as a Senior Scientist?

A: To succeed as a Senior Scientist, one should possess strong technical skills such as expertise in experimental design, data analysis, and statistical modeling, as well as a deep understanding of the scientific domain and its applications. Additionally, soft skills like effective communication, leadership, and collaboration are crucial for mentoring junior scientists, managing projects, and presenting research findings to both technical and non-technical audiences. By combining these technical and soft skills, Senior Scientists can drive innovation, advance their field, and contribute to the growth and success of their organization.

Q: What is the career path for a Senior Scientist?

A: A Senior Scientist typically follows a career progression from entry-level roles such as Research Scientist or Laboratory Technician, to mid-level positions like Senior Research Scientist or Team Lead, and eventually to senior roles like Principal Scientist or Department Head. Throughout their career, Senior Scientists have opportunities for skill development in areas like project management, leadership, and communication, as well as staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in their field through conferences, workshops, and publications. Long-term, Senior Scientists may pursue leadership roles, start their own companies, or transition into roles like Science Policy Advisor or Professor, leveraging their expertise to drive innovation and impact.



Bell Flavors & Fragrances job posting for a Senior Beverage Applications Scientist in Northbrook, IL with a salary of $95,000 to $105,000 Annually with a map of Northbrook location.