Analytical Chemist II

Location: Northbrook, IL
Department: Shared Technical Services – Analytical
Employment Type: Regular Full-Time

Bell Flavors & Fragrances, Inc. is seeking an Analytical Chemist II to join our Shared Technical Services – Analytical team in Northbrook, IL. This role supports analytical research for selecting Flavor, Fragrance, and Quality Control projects involving a wide range of sample types, including consumer goods, flavors, fragrances, raw materials, fresh culinary preparations, and botanicals.

The Analytical Chemist II will perform sample preparation, operate analytical instrumentation, analyze and interpret data, prepare reports, and communicate results to internal and external stakeholders. This position requires strong technical expertise, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively across departments while maintaining a safe, clean, and organized laboratory environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform analytical research for Flavor, Fragrance, and QC projects, including method selection, sample preparation, instrumentation operation, data analysis, interpretation, reporting, and result communication.
• Operate, maintain, and assist with troubleshooting chromatographic instrumentation, including GC-FID, GC-MS, LC-MS, and HPLC-MS.
• Support method optimization, chromatographic analysis, and sampling techniques.
• Participate in organoleptic evaluations as determined by project teams and the Sensory Department.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, QC, Sales, Evaluation, and customer-facing project teams.
• Create and maintain paper and electronic product folders.
• Maintain and order laboratory supplies, inventory, and equipment consumables.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment while following company safety guidelines and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Support Bell’s quality, food safety, and compliance programs, including GMPs, HACCP, SQF, Kosher, Halal, FDA, USDA, EPA, DOT, DEA, FSMA, and other applicable requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Food Science, or a related scientific field.
• 3–5 years of related analytical chemistry experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in the flavor or fragrance industry preferred.
• Experience operating and troubleshooting chromatographic and laboratory instrumentation, including GC-FID, GC-MS, LC-MS, HPLC-UV, HPLC-RI, HPLC/MS, SPME, headspace techniques, and thermal desorption.
• Working knowledge of laboratory software and Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience with ChemStation, MassHunter, AMDIS, and NIST preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and technical troubleshooting skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage timelines and communicate results effectively.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with cross-functional teams.
• Knowledge of chemistry laboratory SOPs and safe laboratory practices.

Why Join Us?

• Competitive Salary range $90K -$100K
• Be part of a collaborative team dedicated to innovation and quality.
• We offer opportunities for professional growth and a supportive work environment.
• Full-time employees are eligible for Bell’s comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, 401K, and additional benefit programs in accordance with plan eligibility requirements.