R&D Chemist Visa Sponsorship Jobs in Illinois
R&D chemist visa sponsorship jobs in Illinois are concentrated in the Chicago metro area and the North Shore corridor, where companies like Abbott Laboratories, Baxter International, and Dow Chemical maintain active research operations. The state's deep pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and specialty materials sectors generate consistent demand for chemists with advanced degrees and sponsorship-ready employers.
Find R&D Chemist JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 7+ R&D Chemist Jobs in Illinois with Visa Sponsorship
See all R&D Chemist Jobs in Illinois with Visa Sponsorship
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new R&D Chemist Jobs in Illinois with Visa Sponsorship.
Get Access To All JobsJOB SUMMARY
Perform laboratory tests in support of commercializing manufacturing processes and improving existing lubricant additive manufacturing processes and products including chemical reaction products and formulations. Comfortable handling laboratory and working near commercial equipment operating at high pressures, up to 1200 psig of flammable and corrosive materials. Commercialize products at Afton and toller facilities. Develop strategies for conducting laboratory evaluations including analysis of samples, data collection and complete preliminary analysis. Work closely with senior technical staff and management in Process Development. Organization skills, being able to prioritize activities, track data and prepare summaries are important attributes. Position requires a broad skill set that spans the entire R&D, scale up, commercialization, quality, cost control and manufacturing support of Afton products. Must be comfortable and want to work in the lab and the commercial process. There will be extensive on the job training. This will be a highly visible position. Success will be determined by the candidate’s ability and motivation.
Responsibilities
- Perform industry and other laboratory tests using established procedures. Assist in development and modification of tests as needed. Develop project plan for testing and/or additive formulation.
- Complete preliminary analysis and interpretation of test results. Prepare reports, memos, presentations, etc., and/or enter into database(s), to communicate results to appropriate parties. Handles requests and reports results in a timely fashion.
- Operate specialized test equipment specific to product area in accordance with established procedure. Perform tests accurately to insure reproducibility.
- Purchase, maintain, and/or obtain adequate inventory of samples and lab supplies for testing and work area. Maintain work area in a neat, clean, and safe condition.
- Maintain adequate level of specific as well as general technical expertise through training, seminars, etc., to support required activity.
- May represent Afton with customers, industry organizations at the direction of the manager and may train other personnel as necessary.
- Assume responsibilities for the maintenance and troubleshooting of the laboratory equipment and/or instrumentation necessary to perform the laboratory tests. Capable of conducting specific analytical tests and understanding the performance of all analytical tests relevant for the products in area of responsibility.
- Assure that complete ISO/quality/regulatory documentation is maintained on all ISO / quality / regulatory related activities. Participate in ISO / quality / regulatory related activities and maintain an up-to-date understanding of the ISO function.
- Assess commercial process for cost, quality and environmental improvement opportunities. Determine feasibility of the improvement and implement the improvement.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE MINIMUMS
- BS in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering
- Laboratory synthesis experience
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE PREFERRED
- Experience with experimental design, statistical analysis of data, report writing and presentation skills.
- Determining economic impact of process modifications.
SKILLS/ABILITIES
- Consistent practice of safe laboratory techniques and safe actions in the manufacturing site.
- Consistent practice of odor control when handling odoriferous chemicals.
- Demonstrates ability to use Afton's routine computer applications effectively in assigned area.
- Demonstrates effective oral and written communication skills
- Able to work with minimum supervision and maximum attention to detail
- Demonstrates a basic understanding of assigned product/work area
- Demonstrates working knowledge of all equipment in assigned area
- Demonstrates the ability to work productively in team situations
- Ideal candidate would have exposure to Lean and Six Sigma, for the right candidate will provide the training in these process improvement methodologies.
Working at Afton
Who We Are - We're a diverse, global family of individuals, who share a passion for developing innovative solutions. We build our professional relationships on respect, integrity and a commitment to safety and quality. Just as these values apply to our professional relationships, they also apply to the way we feel about our neighbors and communities.
Our Work - At Afton, our innovative R&D programs lead to global growth. Our lubricant and fuel additives are among the most highly developed and widely used in the petroleum industry. Afton is a recognized and trusted supplier of driveline lubricant additives, engine oil additives, fuel additives and industrial lubricant additives.
Benefits / Compensation - Our employees are our most treasured asset and we are committed to recognizing and rewarding our employees for their commitment on an ongoing basis. In addition to the salary listed above, we offer the following benefits to all full-time employees:
- 100% Company funded Pension Plan
- 401k Savings Plan including a company match
- Medical, Dental, Vision insurance
- Paid Vacation
- Short Term Disability
- Long Term Disability
- Life Insurance
- Dependent and Personal Accident Insurance
- Identity Theft insurance
Pay Range: $73,000 - $80,000
The pay range displayed on each job posting reflects the previously determined minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries; within the range, individual pay is determined by factors including job scope, job-related skills, experience and relevant education or training. Please note that the pay range listed in this posting reflects the base salary only and does not include the value of benefits that are provided in addition to the salary for this position.
An Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to the individual’s race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit-based factors.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
JOB SUMMARY
Perform laboratory tests in support of commercializing manufacturing processes and improving existing lubricant additive manufacturing processes and products including chemical reaction products and formulations. Comfortable handling laboratory and working near commercial equipment operating at high pressures, up to 1200 psig of flammable and corrosive materials. Commercialize products at Afton and toller facilities. Develop strategies for conducting laboratory evaluations including analysis of samples, data collection and complete preliminary analysis. Work closely with senior technical staff and management in Process Development. Organization skills, being able to prioritize activities, track data and prepare summaries are important attributes. Position requires a broad skill set that spans the entire R&D, scale up, commercialization, quality, cost control and manufacturing support of Afton products. Must be comfortable and want to work in the lab and the commercial process. There will be extensive on the job training. This will be a highly visible position. Success will be determined by the candidate’s ability and motivation.
Responsibilities
- Perform industry and other laboratory tests using established procedures. Assist in development and modification of tests as needed. Develop project plan for testing and/or additive formulation.
- Complete preliminary analysis and interpretation of test results. Prepare reports, memos, presentations, etc., and/or enter into database(s), to communicate results to appropriate parties. Handles requests and reports results in a timely fashion.
- Operate specialized test equipment specific to product area in accordance with established procedure. Perform tests accurately to insure reproducibility.
- Purchase, maintain, and/or obtain adequate inventory of samples and lab supplies for testing and work area. Maintain work area in a neat, clean, and safe condition.
- Maintain adequate level of specific as well as general technical expertise through training, seminars, etc., to support required activity.
- May represent Afton with customers, industry organizations at the direction of the manager and may train other personnel as necessary.
- Assume responsibilities for the maintenance and troubleshooting of the laboratory equipment and/or instrumentation necessary to perform the laboratory tests. Capable of conducting specific analytical tests and understanding the performance of all analytical tests relevant for the products in area of responsibility.
- Assure that complete ISO/quality/regulatory documentation is maintained on all ISO / quality / regulatory related activities. Participate in ISO / quality / regulatory related activities and maintain an up-to-date understanding of the ISO function.
- Assess commercial process for cost, quality and environmental improvement opportunities. Determine feasibility of the improvement and implement the improvement.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE MINIMUMS
- BS in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering
- Laboratory synthesis experience
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE PREFERRED
- Experience with experimental design, statistical analysis of data, report writing and presentation skills.
- Determining economic impact of process modifications.
SKILLS/ABILITIES
- Consistent practice of safe laboratory techniques and safe actions in the manufacturing site.
- Consistent practice of odor control when handling odoriferous chemicals.
- Demonstrates ability to use Afton's routine computer applications effectively in assigned area.
- Demonstrates effective oral and written communication skills
- Able to work with minimum supervision and maximum attention to detail
- Demonstrates a basic understanding of assigned product/work area
- Demonstrates working knowledge of all equipment in assigned area
- Demonstrates the ability to work productively in team situations
- Ideal candidate would have exposure to Lean and Six Sigma, for the right candidate will provide the training in these process improvement methodologies.
Working at Afton
Who We Are - We're a diverse, global family of individuals, who share a passion for developing innovative solutions. We build our professional relationships on respect, integrity and a commitment to safety and quality. Just as these values apply to our professional relationships, they also apply to the way we feel about our neighbors and communities.
Our Work - At Afton, our innovative R&D programs lead to global growth. Our lubricant and fuel additives are among the most highly developed and widely used in the petroleum industry. Afton is a recognized and trusted supplier of driveline lubricant additives, engine oil additives, fuel additives and industrial lubricant additives.
Benefits / Compensation - Our employees are our most treasured asset and we are committed to recognizing and rewarding our employees for their commitment on an ongoing basis. In addition to the salary listed above, we offer the following benefits to all full-time employees:
- 100% Company funded Pension Plan
- 401k Savings Plan including a company match
- Medical, Dental, Vision insurance
- Paid Vacation
- Short Term Disability
- Long Term Disability
- Life Insurance
- Dependent and Personal Accident Insurance
- Identity Theft insurance
Pay Range: $73,000 - $80,000
The pay range displayed on each job posting reflects the previously determined minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries; within the range, individual pay is determined by factors including job scope, job-related skills, experience and relevant education or training. Please note that the pay range listed in this posting reflects the base salary only and does not include the value of benefits that are provided in addition to the salary for this position.
An Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to the individual’s race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit-based factors.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
R&D Chemist Job Roles in Illinois
See all R&D Chemist Jobs in Illinois
Sign up for free to filter by visa type, set job alerts, and find employers with verified sponsorship history.
Search R&D Chemist Jobs in IllinoisR&D Chemist Jobs in Illinois: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies sponsor visas for r&d chemists in Illinois?
Abbott Laboratories, Baxter International, Dow Chemical, BASF, and Abbvie are among the Illinois employers with documented histories of sponsoring work visas for research chemists. Smaller specialty chemical and pharmaceutical companies in the Chicago suburbs, particularly along the Interstate 294 corridor, also file sponsorship applications. Reviewing DOL Labor Condition Application disclosure data helps identify which employers have filed for chemist roles specifically.
Which visa types realistically fit r&d chemist roles in Illinois?
R&D chemist roles in Illinois qualify as specialty occupations under the H-1B visa, which requires a bachelor's degree or higher in chemistry or a directly related field. Canadian and Mexican nationals may qualify for TN visa status under the USMCA Chemist category, provided they hold the required degree. Employers filing for H-1B must submit a Labor Condition Application certifying prevailing wage compliance. F-1 students may use OPT or STEM OPT if their degree is STEM-designated. EB-2 and EB-3 green card pathways are also available for longer-term sponsorship.
How to find r&d chemist visa sponsorship jobs in Illinois?
Migrate Mate lists Illinois employers with verified sponsorship histories for r&d chemist roles, letting you search by location and role type without sifting through postings from companies that don't sponsor. The platform focuses specifically on visa-sponsoring employers, which is especially useful in Illinois where research chemistry hiring is spread across pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and materials sectors in the Chicago metro and North Shore areas.
Which cities in Illinois have the most r&d chemist sponsorship jobs?
The Chicago metropolitan area accounts for the largest share of r&d chemist sponsorship activity in Illinois. North Shore suburbs including Abbott Park, North Chicago, and Deerfield are home to major pharmaceutical research campuses. Naperville and the broader I-88 research corridor also host specialty chemical and materials science employers. Smaller concentrations exist near university-affiliated research parks in Champaign-Urbana, connected to the University of Illinois chemistry programs.
Are there state-specific factors that affect r&d chemist visa sponsorship in Illinois?
Illinois benefits from a dense cluster of research universities, including the University of Illinois, Northwestern, and the University of Chicago, which create direct pipelines from graduate chemistry programs into sponsored industry roles. The state's established pharmaceutical and agrochemical sectors mean many Illinois employers have in-house immigration counsel experienced with H-1B visa and TN filings for chemists. Candidates with doctoral or master's degrees in chemistry may qualify for the H-1B advanced degree exemption, which draws from a separate annual allocation.
What is the prevailing wage for sponsored r&d chemist jobs in Illinois?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.