Application Chemist

The Applications Chemist will play a pivotal role in working with caramel coloring, supporting both research and development as well as customer communication. The position involves assisting customers with their application challenges, contributing to R&D projects, and maintaining accurate records of test results.

Responsibilities

• Assist both internal and external customers in resolving application-related issues by identifying and implementing optimal solutions.
• Participate in R&D projects and product improvement initiatives.
• Operate laboratory equipment to perform tests, including viscosity, pH, and spectrophotometric absorption (color).
• Work directly with customers to provide solutions and apply chemistry techniques.
• Collaborate with other departments, such as the sales and laboratory teams.
• Assist customers with pilot projects and applications.

• Experience with chemistry involving sugars and carbohydrates.
• Proficiency in viscosity, assay, and spectrophotometry.
• Three years of food science experience, specifically in sugars and carbohydrates.
• Knowledge of wet chemistry, gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, and high-performance liquid chromatography.

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry/Food Science or related field with 2-3 years of industry-based experience working with sugars and carbohydrates.
• Alternatively, a Master's degree in Chemistry or Food Science with research experience in sugars and carbohydrates.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Sales skills and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently and manage research schedules.
• Collaborative mindset and willingness to learn.

The role is based on a Monday to Friday daytime shift with flexible hours. The chemist will work with a laboratory team of 4-5 people. Domestic and international travel will be required, with 1-2 trips in the first 12 months alongside a colleague. International destinations include France, India, and China.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Clinton, IA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $31.25 - $34.62/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job
classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be
subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Clinton,IA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Dec 16, 2025.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

Salary : $31 - $35