Process Technician

Overview

Advanced Drainage Systems is a leading manufacturer of stormwater and onsite septic wastewater solutions, committed to sustainability and innovation. With a vast manufacturing and distribution network, we deliver high-quality products across multiple industries while recycling over half a billion pounds of plastic annually. At ADS, we foster a culture where diverse perspectives drive better ideas, ensuring every employee feels valued, heard, and empowered to make an impact.

Position Summary
The Process Technician plays a critical role in supporting ADS manufacturing operations through process optimization, technical troubleshooting, preventive maintenance support, and employee development. This position serves as a technical resource for production teams, driving safe operations, product quality, productivity, operational excellence, and continuous improvement across the facility. The Process Technician works closely with production, maintenance, engineering, and leadership teams to maximize equipment performance and ensure customer requirements are consistently met.

Key Responsibilities

• Promote and model a strong safety culture through compliance with PPE requirements, safe work practices, 6S standards, and ADS policies.
• Support training and development of production associates on safety, quality, equipment operation, and standard work practices.
• Conduct routine inspections of production equipment, process parameters, heaters, temperatures, pressures, and operating conditions.
• Troubleshoot processes, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, thermal, and electrical issues that impact productivity, quality, or safety.
• Perform equipment adjustments and minor repairs to maintain operational efficiency and minimize downtime.
• Support preventive and predictive maintenance activities and collaborate with Maintenance Technicians and Engineering resources.
• Assist with product changeovers and process startups to ensure efficient transitions and product conformance.
• Analyze process performance and recommend improvements that increase throughput, quality, reliability, and cost effectiveness.
• Maintain compliance with ADS, AASHTO, customer, and regulatory quality requirements.
• Provide technical leadership and coaching to team members while supporting a collaborative, continuous improvement of culture.
• Operate forklifts and other material handling equipment safely and effectively.
• Maintain housekeeping standards and support operational excellence initiatives.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED.
• 3+ years of manufacturing experience in plastics extrusion, injection molding, industrial processing, maintenance, or related technical environment.
• Strong mechanical, electrical, and process troubleshooting abilities.
• Ability to read and interpret technical documents, procedures, and operating parameters.
• Basic computer proficiency including Microsoft Office and production systems.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate degree in Industrial Maintenance Technology, Manufacturing Technology, Engineering Technology, or related field.
• Experience with PLC troubleshooting, automation systems, robotics, AGVs, AMRs, or industrial controls.
• Experience with hydraulics, pneumatics,
  welding, fabrication, machining
  , and thermal control systems.
• Forklift certification, OSHA training, Lean Manufacturing, and/or Six Sigma experience.

Key Competencies

• Leadership and accountability
• Continuous improvement mindset
• Technical expertise and troubleshooting
• Communication and teamwork
• Attention to detail and quality focus
• Adaptability and customer focus

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds on a frequent basis.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, squat, reach, climb, and work throughout a 12-hour shift.
• Ability to work in varying temperatures and manufacturing environments.
• Ability to operate industrial equipment and safely perform physical job duties.

Health & Welfare Benefits: Medical and prescription drug plans, telemedicine (with medical plan), High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) and Health Savings Account (HSA), dental and vision plans, virtual…