Research Assistant, Analytical

Professional Areas Research & Development

Louis Dreyfus Company is a leading merchant and processor of agricultural goods. Our activities span the entire value chain from farm to fork, across a broad range of business lines, we leverage our global reach and extensive asset network to serve our customers and consumers around the world. Structured as a matrix organization of six geographical regions and ten platforms, Louis Dreyfus Company is active in over 100 countries and employs approximately 18,000 people globally.

Job Description Overall Purpose and Objective of Position

This role is responsible for conducting analytical testing of food materials and products, including proteins, starches, fibers, oils, and micro‑analytes, following established standard operating procedures. The position involves performing both routine and advanced physicochemical and functional analyses, accurately interpreting data, and maintaining precise laboratory documentation. The individual will operate, maintain, and troubleshoot analytical instruments, ensure proper calibration, and uphold cleanliness and safety standards across all lab areas.

Adherence to company safety protocols is essential.

This position is a safety sensitive position and is subject to random drug testing.

Primary Responsibilities/Essential Functions

• Understand and execute analytical tests as directed and as laid out in standard operating procedures of proteins, starch, fibers, ash, oils and various micro‑analytes.
• Perform routine and non‑routine physicochemical and functional analysis of food materials and products. Analyze analytical data accurately and comprehensively.
• Report quality results in a timely manner and organize comprehensive laboratory records and documentation with precision.
• Operate, maintain and carry out basic troubleshooting of all analytical instruments and equipment. Perform instrument calibration and routine maintenance tasks as required.
• Keep all work areas organized and clean.
• Practice LDC’s safety standards at all times.

Company Conformance Statements

• Perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision.
• Interact professionally with co‑workers, Company business associates and the general public.
• Work together in a cooperative spirit to serve the best interests of the Company.
• Operate in a fully responsible manner and comply with the law and Company policy.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities (including any physical demands)

• A genuine desire to work in plant‑based ingredients and food space.
• Capacity to work independently within defined experimental frame.
• Display of proficient bench skills.
• Adaptability and accountability.
• Analytical mindset with proven ability to gather, interpret and synthesize large volumes of data.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively as an individual or collaborate as part of a team.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with spreadsheet and word‑processing software (e.g., Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks to meet strict monthly deadlines.
• Proactively approaches job duties and potential problems.
• Detail oriented with strong organizational and documentation skills.
• Ability to provide basic maintenance to lab equipment in use.

Education/Professional Certifications/Licenses

Associate’s degree in analytical chemistry, biochemistry, food science or other related field.

Preferred qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in analytical chemistry, biochemistry, food science or other related field.

Experience

• Prior experience working in a research laboratory.
• Two (2) or more years of experience in a laboratory.
• Experience in chemistry analysis.
• Experience in food research analysis.
• Experience with LC and GC chromatography systems.

Additional Information Equipment Used

• Centrifuge, Spectrophotometer, LC, GC, PH meters and other lab equipment.
• Typical office equipment: PC, printer/scanner.

Working Conditions

Time split between pilot plant, office and lab environments. There may be extended periods of sitting or standing at a computer screen or counter. Interacts closely with personnel in other departments and Company…