Technical Manager, R&D Ops Excellence Carbs - Decatur, IL

Job Overview

ADM is seeking a Technical Manager of R&D Operational Excellence – Carbohydrates Solutions to support and influence corn processing cost margins by improving operational capability via R&D initiatives. In this role, you will leverage deep knowledge of corn processing to develop R&D initiatives that reduce unit cost and drive adoption of cutting‑edge technologies. Success in this position implements initiatives to create durable competitive advantage through higher asset productivity, lower variability, and improved cost discipline.

This role will partner with Operations (Engineering, Technology Center), Global Ops, Supply Chain, and Finance to reduce cost per unit, improve asset utilization, and embed a culture of continuous improvement. It ensures that operational improvements translate into verified financial impact by bridging R&D innovation with manufacturing execution.

• Lead and support R&D initiatives to reduce cost per ton/unit across corn processing facilities by applying scientific process knowledge and novel R&D technologies.
• Lead and support R&D initiatives on yield variance using scientific principles and advanced data analytics.
• Identify and drive implementation of R&D initiatives that directly improve OEE, yield, labor productivity, and overhead absorption through rigorous technical analysis and advanced manufacturing integration.
• Drive waste elimination and by‑product optimization through innovative technical solutions.
• Use standard productivity metrics and benchmarking across plants to evaluate the success of newly adopted technologies against established KPIs.
• Establish technical cost baselines and performance scorecards for R&D‑driven corn processing operational initiatives.
• Ensure R&D lead initiatives identify high‑level countermeasures to ensure sustainment for project scale‑up.
• Partner with Finance and Operations to validate savings, prevent double counting, and track sustainment of R&D‑driven initiatives.
• Network with similar corn processing locations to promote replication, implementation and sustainment of high‑impact R&D initiatives.

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Sciences, or Technology, with preference for Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Chemistry, or Food Science.
• 10+ years of experience in corn processing or similar manufacturing.
• Deep technical and scientific understanding of corn process manufacturing, reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and scale‑up methodologies.
• Financial understanding of corn processing operational KPIs and their impact on P&Ls to support R&D‑driven initiatives.

Base pay offered may vary depending on location, job‑related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly and salaried non‑exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours.

The pay range for this position is expected to be between $92,800.00 and $.

The total compensation package for this position will also include an annual bonus and a long‑term incentive plan.

• Physical wellness – medical/Rx, dental, vision and on‑site wellness center access or gym reimbursement (as applicable).
• Financial wellness – flexible spending accounts, health savings account, 401(k) with matching contributions and cash balance plan, discounted employee stock purchasing program, life insurance, disability, workers’ compensation, legal assistance, identity theft protection.
• Mental and social wellness – Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), and Colleague Giving Programs (ADM Cares).

• Paid time off, including paid holidays.
• Adoption assistance and paid maternity and parental leave.
• Tuition assistance.
• Company‑sponsored training and development resources, such as Linked In Learning, language training, and mentoring programs.

Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are cornerstones of ADM’s efforts to continue innovating, driving growth, and delivering outstanding performance. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and creating welcoming, truly inclusive work environments that enable every colleague to feel comfortable on the job, make meaningful contributions, and grow their career. We respect and value the unique backgrounds and experiences that each person can bring to ADM because we know that diversity of perspectives makes us better, together.

We welcome everyone to apply. We are committed to ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, language, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.