Associate Scientist

fairlife, LLC is a Chicago‑based nutrition company that creates great‑tasting, nutrition‑rich and dairy products to nourish consumers.

With over $3B in annual retail sales, fairlife's portfolio of delicious, lactose‑free, real dairy products includes:
fairlife ultra‑filtered milk
; Core Power High Protein Shakes, a sports nutrition drink to support post‑workout recovery;
fairlife nutrition plan
, a nutrition shake to support the journey to better health.

A wholly owned subsidiary of The Coca‑Cola company, fairlife, LLC has been recognized by both Fast Company and Nielsen for its industry leading innovation.

To learn more about fairlife and its complete line of products, please visit

The Associate Scientist will be applying scientific principles, conducting research experiments, and producing reliable test results. The primary objectives of this position are to resolve technical challenges, develop new products, improve existing products, validate testing methods, or enhance efficiency. The candidate should be comfortable working with a team and should have a passion for creativity and innovation within a fast‑paced environment.

The successful candidate will learn to interpret and apply scientific findings to dairy systems, to translate findings into innovative manufacturing processes and products.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.

• Design and conduct benchtop experiments and perform tests according to research plan.
• Up‑scale trials from benchtop to pilot plant and perform tests according to research plan.
• Design and execute shelf‑life studies on selected products including routine analysis and sensory evaluations.
• Keeping up to date with relevant scientific and technical developments.
• Analyzing and summarizing research data.
• Presenting scientific findings to the R&D team and to other functions when needed.
• Consistently deliver concise, accurate and complete reporting of work in the specified format (written and/or electronic).
• Operating benchtop and pilot plant equipment.
• Adhering to GMP and other safety regulations.
• Maintaining a safe, clean, and sanitary work area.
• Organizing, storing, and handling all chemical substances, fluids, and compressed gases according to safety instructions.
• Ensuring that safety guidelines are adhered to at all times within the laboratory.
• Cleaning, sterilizing, maintaining, and calibrating laboratory equipment.
• Providing technical support when necessary.
• Performing other duties assigned by supervisor.

• BS or MS degree in food science with either a focus on dairy science or a working experience in dairy.
• 0–1 years' experience in a lab/pilot plant environment.
• Previous working knowledge related to at least one of the following: food science, product recipe/formulation, process research, experimental design and/or plant trials.
• Hands‑on experience operating electrical and non‑electrical laboratory equipment.
• In‑depth knowledge of QHSE management systems, preventative measures, and laboratory best practices.
• Ability to handle ambiguity and work in a fast paced, entrepreneurial environment.
• Working knowledge of MS Office Suite and database systems.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Willingness to travel overnight, and to work night and weekend shifts for special projects.

• 8+ hours sitting/standing/walking.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.
• Exposure to hazards (machinery, flammable liquids, biohazards, etc.).

Position location:

Chicago, IL

Reports to:

Director, R&D

Travel requirements: 5–15%

Exempt/Nonexempt: exempt

* Base pay offered may vary depending on geography, job‑related knowledge, skills, and experience. A full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position, is offered.

Base pay range: $75,000—$90,000 USD

fairlife, LLC is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other…