Principal Scientist – Food Innovation

Location: Elgin, IL (Onsite)
Schedule: M-F 8a-5p
Industry: Food Ingredients / Biotechnology
Level: Senior / Individual Contributor + Leadership

About the Opportunity

Work with an innovative global leader in food ingredients as a Principal Scientist to drive next-generation product innovation! This is a highly visible role blending hands-on research, commercialization, and strategic leadership. You’ll lead breakthrough product development, collaborate with global teams, and shape the future of food applications through cutting-edge enzyme technology.

This role is ideal for a PhD-level scientist who thrives at the intersection of lab work, innovation, and real-world impact.

What You’ll Do

• Lead end-to-end development of novel food applications, from concept through commercialization

• Conduct hands-on laboratory research (~75%), including bench-scale experimentation and analytical testing

• Develop new product applications annually to drive market growth and revenue

• Support intellectual property development, contributing data for patent filings

• Serve as a technical expert for internal teams, customers, and industry events

• Present research at domestic and international conferences

• Collaborate cross-functionally with Sales, Marketing, and global R&D teams

• Lead joint innovation projects with strategic customers and research institutions

• Mentor and develop junior scientists and laboratory staff

• Ensure compliance with GMP, SQF, and food safety standards

Leadership Impact

• Build and mentor a high-performing scientific team

• Guide technical strategy and research direction

• Influence innovation pipelines and long-term R&D priorities

• Support department performance, budgeting, and operational excellence

What We’re Looking For

Required:

• PhD in Food Science, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or related scientific discipline

• Strong background in R&D within food, ingredients, or biotech

• Proven success in product development and commercialization

• Experience leading cross-functional or customer-facing innovation projects

Preferred:

• Experience with industrial enzymes or enzyme applications

• Hands-on experience with GC, HPLC, or spectrophotometry

• Patent contributions or IP development experience

• Conference presentations or scientific publications
  
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