Scientist Jobs in Illinois
Scientist jobs in Illinois are in strong demand, concentrated in life sciences, pharmaceutical research, environmental science, and materials science, with openings at every level from entry-level research associate through senior principal scientist. Chicago, the North Shore suburbs including Waukegan and Lake County, and the Champaign-Urbana region anchor most of the hiring, where employers like AbbVie, Baxter International, and the University of Chicago consistently bring on scientific talent. The most sought-after specialties in Illinois include analytical chemistry, biomedical research, and environmental testing. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Founded in 1932, Xttrium Laboratories has been dedicated to promoting health and well-being through high-quality products. Recognized as a trusted supplier of disinfectants to hospitals and healthcare providers, Xttrium has expanded its offerings to pharmacies nationwide. With over 40 years of expertise in manufacturing FDA-registered healthcare solutions, the company is a leader in ensuring safety and quality in a health-conscious world.
Xttrium is looking for an R&D Scientist.
Description:
- Execute Analytical Method Verification / Validation activities of Pharmaceutical Drug Products as per current ICH / FDA requirements.
- Formulate Lab scale batches of Products and placeboes to support Analytical and formulation development.
- Document analytical activities and maintain data integrity as an integral part of GLP compliance.
- Ensure all analytical data (including electronic data and audit trial) generated in the Laboratory are meeting current standards of compliance.
- Keep inventory of reference standards, reagents, columns, equipment parts and order as needed.
- Ensure all duties and activities associated with R&D Department are carried out in compliance to FDA, OSHA, and GMP systems.
- Timely and effective communication to escalate Quality issues to the appropriate level of the management.
Knowledge:
-
Experience with the following analytical techniques:
UV/Vis, IR, pH meter, wet chemistry techniques, titration, Karl Fisher titration, GC, and HPLC. - Knowledge of the most current FDA/ICH guidelines and Pharmacopoeias is required.
- Understanding and familiarity with analytical regulatory requirement for ANDA submissions.
- Must possess good written and verbal communication skills.
Education:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in scientific disciplines such as Analytical Chemistry, Pharmaceutics or Biochemistry.
- Minimum 1 year of experience in formulation / Analytical Chemistry, with significant knowledge of analytical chemistry techniques demonstrated through a combination of industry and academic performance.
Expected compensation for this role will be $75,000 and 95,000 on a full-time basis plus applicable health and ancillary benefits offered by the company. Final compensation may differ based on a number of various factors.
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Find Scientist JobsScientist Jobs by City in Illinois
Where Illinois roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Scientist Job Market in Illinois
A snapshot from current Illinois openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- AbbVie22

- Kraft Heinz8

- Northwestern Medicine6

- Hospital Sisters Health System5

- Fresenius Kabi USA4

Top Industries Hiring
- Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals11
- Technology & Software4
- Science & Research3
- Healthcare & Medical Services3
- Insurance1
What Illinois Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in scientist jobs across Illinois.
- Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, environmental science, or a closely related scientific discipline
- Experience with laboratory techniques such as PCR, chromatography, spectroscopy, or cell culture
- Familiarity with Illinois EPA or IEPA regulatory standards for environmental or industrial roles
- Proficiency in data analysis software including R, Python, SAS, or laboratory information management systems
- Strong written communication skills for technical reports, SOPs, and regulatory submissions
- Ability to maintain accurate laboratory records and comply with GLP or GMP guidelines
Scientist Jobs in Illinois: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a scientist in Illinois?
Becoming a scientist in Illinois typically begins with a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or environmental science, with many research roles requiring a master's or doctoral degree. Environmental scientists working in regulated capacities may interact with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency for compliance purposes. Laboratory roles in clinical settings may require certification through bodies such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology, which is recognized by Illinois employers as a standard credential.
Which companies hire scientists in Illinois?
Employers hiring scientists in Illinois right now include AbbVie, Kraft Heinz, and Northwestern Medicine, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. Illinois's concentration of pharmaceutical headquarters, biotech firms, and major research universities means hiring is consistent across both corporate and academic settings throughout the state.
Which Illinois cities have the most scientist jobs?
Chicago, North Chicago, and Glenview have the most scientist openings in Illinois. Chicago leads because of its dense concentration of hospitals, research institutions, and corporate life sciences headquarters, while Lake County and the North Shore suburbs reflect the presence of large pharmaceutical employers like AbbVie and Baxter, and Champaign-Urbana draws academic and biotech research roles anchored by the University of Illinois.
Are there remote scientist jobs in Illinois?
Yes, but they're rare. Most scientist roles require hands-on laboratory or fieldwork that cannot be done remotely. About 60% of scientist openings tied to Illinois are remote or hybrid as of August 2026, and those positions tend to be in data-heavy specialties such as bioinformatics, scientific writing, regulatory affairs, or computational research.
How can I get hired as a scientist in Illinois with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is applying to research associate or laboratory technician roles, which are designed for candidates with a degree but limited professional experience. Large Illinois employers like AbbVie and Baxter regularly recruit new graduates into structured associate scientist programs. Universities across Illinois, including Northwestern and the University of Illinois, offer research assistant positions that build hands-on credentials. Earning an American Society for Clinical Pathology certification or completing relevant coursework in GMP practices gives candidates a concrete edge in early applications.
Where can I find and apply to scientist jobs in Illinois?
You can find and apply to scientist jobs in Illinois on Migrate Mate, which lists current Illinois openings across industries and experience levels. Find roles that fit your background and apply directly to the employers posting them.
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