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Innovation Scientist II

Carpentersville, IL, US   Hoffman Estates, IL, US  
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Job ID 5854 Date posted 08/07/2025 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
  • Glassdoor Reviews and Company Rating

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

Innovation Scientist II

Carpentersville, IL, US   Hoffman Estates, IL, US  
Job ID 5854 Date posted August 5, 2025 Job Category Research and Development

Innovation Scientist II 

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:

We are looking for an Innovation Scientist II to Develop food and beverage products to demonstrate Sensient’s flavor and taste technologies in support of new business growth opportunities. This person will provide leadership in driving flavor and taste modulation technologies for our flavors business. They will work well in a team environment and actively contribute ideas while exhibiting subject matter expertise.  They will effectively develop and communicate features & benefits of new technologies and assist in delivering presentations to internal management and customers. Must work independently, with minimal supervision, and balance a multi-task workload.     

What you’ll do
• Lead the creation of new food and beverage concepts that highlight innovative flavor and taste solutions
• Guide and mentor junior scientists to help them grow their skills and confidence
• Collaborate across teams to share knowledge, train others, and support development of new ideas
• Evaluate and apply new ingredients or technologies that bring solutions to real-world product challenges
• Present insights, results, and product concepts to internal and external partners in engaging ways
• Organize and document project work clearly and consistently
• Travel occasionally to support customers and showcase innovation

What you’ll get

  • Degree in Food Science (or closely related discipline) with 7-10+ years of product development/innovation experience.
  • A strong understanding of flavors, ingredients, and food formulation techniques
  • A creative and curious mindset with a passion for solving problems
  • The ability to manage multiple projects and adapt to changing priorities
  • Excellent communication skills and a collaborative approach to working with teams
  • Interest in mentoring others and leading by example
  • A proactive attitude with the confidence to work independently when needed

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 $73,750 - $98,325.  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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