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Senior Application Scientist I

Hoffman Estates, IL, US  
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Job ID 7173 Date posted 08/21/2026 Category Research and Development

Sensient Technologies Corporation is a global leader in colors, flavors, and extracts. Our R&D teams drive innovation by developing advanced systems, ingredients, and technologies that transform food, personal care, and pharmaceutical products. Join us to be part of a dynamic group shaping the future across a variety of teams, including:

Analytics Team: Lead flavor research and analysis using instrumentation like HPLC, GC, and GC-MS. Improve and develop lab workflows and methodologies. Mentor staff to ensure both technical excellence and financial success through collaborative efforts.

Flavor Creation Team: Develop innovative flavors across diverse market segments, including Beverage, Savory, and Sweet. Work closely with customers and our Applications Teams to deliver impactful, tailored solutions which drive growth and exceed market expectations.

Sensory Team: Design and execute sensory and consumer research to provide in-depth understanding of products and consumers for product development, optimization and maintenance. Conduct panels and apply statistical analysis to deliver actionable insights. Lead training of cross-functional teams and customers in flavor language.

Innovation Team: Utilize scientific expertise to develop cutting-edge ingredients, formulations, and technologies. Contribute to groundbreaking product advancements. Collaborate with a global network of Sensient scientists to shape our industry's future.

Applications Team: Partner with customers in labs and at their facilities to bring their product visions to life. Solve challenges, provide creative solutions to deliver innovative products which align with customer goals across various industries.

  • Job Type: Full Time
  • Job Level: Entry, Mid, Senior
  • Travel : Depends on Role

success profile

We are looking for team members who are:

  • Results-focused
  • Collaborative
  • Skilled communicators
  • Analytically rigorous
  • Detail-oriented
  • Intensely curious

Your journey

career path

This is a sample of the R&D Career paths at Sensient.

  • Lab Technician
  • Application Scientist (multiple levels)
  • Technical Service Manager (multiple levels)
  • Technical Director
  • Senior Technical Director or
  • Innovation Intern
  • Innovation Associate (multiple levels)
  • Innovation Scientist (multiple levels)
  • Innovations Manager

cultural points

The Sensient Six are the core values that drive us in our mission.

  • Entrepreneurial
  • Customer focused
  • Develop self and others
  • Collaborative
  • Results driven
  • Know your job
My job gives me the unique opportunity to develop products that I feel passionate about. Being part of an international team, with access to so much know-how and the most innovative technologies, encourages me every day to do my best and to drive innovation.
Lisa Innovation Manager, Germany

Senior Application Scientist I

Hoffman Estates, IL, US  
Job ID 7173 Date posted August 20, 2026 Job Category Research and Development

Senior Applications Scientist I

At Sensient Technologies, we are experts in the science, art and innovation of color and flavor. We are market-savvy and visionary. We are problem solvers. And we will be better with you.

Position Summary
If you are energized by turning creative ideas into innovative beverage solutions and bringing new products to life, we are looking for a Senior Application Scientist to:

•     Develop innovative and standard beverage products for customer growth opportunities, with a focus on foodservice and away-from-home beverage     applications.
•    Leverage expertise in flavors and beverage ingredients to create compelling solutions.
•    Manage multiple projects independently while balancing priorities.
•    Collaborate with customers, sales, and internal teams to solve challenges and drive innovation.
•    Communicate product benefits and technical insights through customer presentations and demonstrations.
•    Contribute ideas, technical expertise, and hands-on support in a collaborative team environment.
•    Help drive new business growth by demonstrating the value of Sensient’s products.

This role is based on-site in a collaborative lab environment, where cross-functional teamwork and direct interaction with production teams and commercial partners are part of everyday work. Occasional travel may be required for customer visits and plant support.

What you’ll do:
•    Manage projects and drive new product development and innovation, including beverage development for foodservice and away-from-home applications.
•    Guide junior scientists, lab technicians, and interns on projects.
•    Lead customer workshops, sensory panels, pilot plant, and plant runs.
•    Collaborate with sales, product management, and plant teams; travel to customer sites as needed.
•    Operate, calibrate, and interpret benchtop and analytical laboratory equipment.
•    Maintain accurate documentation, organized workspaces, and compliance with laboratory protocols.
•    Demonstrate strong organization, attention to detail, communication, time management, and basic mathematical skills.

What you’ll bring:
•    BS degree in Food Science, Biology, Chemistry or similar field, and a working knowledge of food applications as well as a basic knowledge of food     processing.
•    At least 10 years prior experience working in a laboratory environment, with demonstrated experience developing beverages, preferably for foodservice/away-from-    home applications.
•    Strong hands-on knowledge of beverage formulation, flavors, and beverage ingredients.
•    Attention to detail and effective time management are critical for success.
•    Must be able to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
•    Must be able to stand for prolonged periods and be able to occasionally lift up to 25 lbs.

What you’ll get:
•    A dynamic, creative environment with the opportunity to innovate and impact real products.
•    Direct involvement with cross-functional teams and customer-facing activities.
•    Access to a well-equipped pilot plant and application labs.
•    Opportunities to grow through leadership, mentoring, and exposure to diverse product categories.
•    A culture that values safety, collaboration, and scientific curiosity.
•    Competitive compensation and benefits tailored to support your well-being and development.

About Sensient
Sensient Technologies Corporation is a leading global manufacturer and marketer of colors, flavors, and extracts. Sensient employs advanced technologies at facilities around the world to develop specialty food and beverage systems, cosmetic and pharmaceutical systems, specialty colors, and other specialty and fine chemicals. The Company's customers include major international manufacturers representing most of the world's best-known brands.

About Sensient Flavors:
Sensient Flavors offers innovative, global taste solutions and specialized flavor delivery systems that help bring life to your food and beverage products. Our leading-edge technologies reflect our core philosophies to be dynamic and innovative and to add value to your applications.

The salary range for this position is $125,000 - $145,000. Pay within the range is based on several factors, which may include, but are not limited to, education, work experience, specialized training, and labor market conditions.  In addition to salary, Sensient is proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits program to support the holistic well-being of our employees and their families.

THIRD PARTY AGENCY: Any unsolicited submissions received from recruitment agencies will be considered property of Sensient Technologies, and we will not be liable for any fees or obligations related to those submissions.

Sensient is an Equal Opportunity Employer, headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.

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