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Innovation Scientist - Sr

Hoffman Estates, IL, US  
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Job ID 5788 Date posted 07/22/2025 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 - Sr

Hoffman Estates, IL, US  
Job ID 5788 Date posted July 21, 2025 Job Category Research and Development

At Sensient BioNutrients, we develop and manufacture yeast and plant-derived extracts for use in Human, Plant and Animal Nutrition applications. 

We are seeking a Senior Innovation Scientist to execute on a broad range of R&D projects in the areas of biotechnology and fermentation, provide technical insights to promote sales wins, and work cross-functionally to support Operations and Quality. 

What you’ll do

  • Lead experimental design and execution of fermentation projects across a diverse set of microorganisms, media formulations, and downstream applications  
  • Support the sales team with technical know-how and engage in customer interactions to promote science-based selling 
  • Showcase technical capabilities to internal and external stakeholders and customers. Represent Sensient Global BioNutrients at conferences through posters and presentations
  • Provide hands-on guidance and mentorship to junior scientists, including direct support on experimental execution and data interpretation
  • Troubleshoot manufacturing challenges by applying analytical support and engineering principles

What you’ll bring

  • MS or PhD in Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Biochemistry or a related field
  • Minimum of 1 years with PhD or 4 years with MS of industrial experience in a laboratory research setting
  • Hands-on experience with enzymatic reactions, fermentation, bioprocess scale-up and drying technologies
  • In-depth knowledge of analytical equipment like Flow cytometry, HPLC, LC-MS.
  • Proven ability to work with cross-functional teams in an inclusive and collaborative environment
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills to work across disciplines and explain complex ideas clearly to diverse stakeholders and customers
  • Experience with JMP or similar modeling/design tools is a plus

What you’ll get

  • Competitive compensation and benefits designed to support your financial and personal well-being
  • A comprehensive training program and continued learning opportunities to help you grow
  • The chance to be part of a team that values creativity, curiosity, and practical innovation
  • A culture that encourages you to take ownership of your work and make an impact
  • Opportunities to engage with global teams and build meaningful relationships across disciplines
  • This position is based on site at our location, where hands-on work, in-person collaboration, and access to specialized equipment are key to success.

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 Global BioNutrients

Sensient Global BioNutrients provides a broad portfolio of consistent, innovative, and tailored nutrient solutions to meet your diverse application needs and deliver value through improved productivity, processing time and product performance.

The salary range for this position is $108,000 - $130,000 USD.  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.  

U.S. Relocation Package Available - Visa Sponsorship Available

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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