Lab Technician

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.

• Advanced Drainage Systems Inc. is the leading manufacturer of high-performance thermoplastic corrugated pipe providing a comprehensive suite of water management products and drainage solutions. The Material Science Lab Technician is part of a team responsible for all aspects of materials technology development including recycle material utilization and the design and formulation of low cost/higher performance material solutions. In this role the candidate will work closely with a team of technicians and engineers to process and test new resins, additive technologies, and formulations. This position has a dual focus including both processing of materials and performance testing. The candidate will be responsible for operating/maintaining process and test, documenting and analyzing results, and maintaining an organized and safe laboratory environment.

  Primary Responsibilities:

  • Operate laboratory process equipment such as extruders, injection molder, and lamination press.
  • Perform routine and non-routine material testing using a wide variety of laboratory test instruments involving chemical, mechanical, microstructural, and environmental equipment.
  • Record all data and results into a lab management system (LIMS).
  • Resolve problems by examining and evaluating data and identifying corrective actions.
  • Assist in developing and writing standard operating procedures.
  • Responsible for maintenance and calibration of assigned equipment.
  • Ensure all safety guidelines are always followed and maintain a clean and orderly work environment.
  • Update job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities and researching areas of business interest.

  Job Skills:

  • Ability to prioritize and manage time effectively.
  • Basic understanding of thermoplastic polymers and recycled materials.
  • Hands-on experience running laboratory and pilot scale extrusion equipment.
  • Technical curiosity & enthusiastic approach to solving technical challenges
  • Able to perform basic mathematical calculations (i.e., unit conversions).
  • Effective communication skills – verbal and written.
  • Proficient in MS Office software (Excel, Word, etc.)
  • Willing to travel as required.

  Education Requirements:

  • High school diploma or general education (GED), associate or bachelor's degree in a scientific field preferred.

  Minimum Preferred Experience:

  • 5-8 years lab experience with H.S. Diploma
  • 3-5 years lab experience with associates degree
  • Experience running lab process equipment (i.e., extruder, lamination press, extruder, injection molder, etc.)
  • Experience working with lab test equipment (i.e., chemical, physical, microstructural, environmental, etc).

  Physical Requirements:

  • Able to perform physically demanding work such as moving and lifting equipment, standing for long period of time, etc.

• #LI-CH1

  #LI-Onsite

Health & Welfare Benefits: Medical and prescription drug plans, telemedicine (with medical plan), dental and vision plans, virtual physical therapy*, an employee assistance program (EAP)*, and voluntary accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnification programs.

 Financial Benefits: Retirement 401k program with company match, an employee stock purchase plan (voluntary), financial wellness planning*, paid parental leave*, flexible spending accounts (FSA) for child care and health care, short-term and long-term disability*, basic life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D)*, adoption financial reimbursement*, tuition reimbursement*, voluntary life insurance (for employees, spouses, and children), and voluntary identity theft and fraud protection.

*100% paid by ADS.

Growth Opportunities & Global Presence: With a global network of approximately 70 manufacturing plants and 40 distribution centers, ADS offers extensive opportunities for career growth and development in various locations around the world.

Inclusive and Creative Work Culture: ADS fosters a culture of passion, innovation, and continuous improvement, empowering employees to shape industry-leading solutions. We value diverse perspectives, recognizing that they drive better ideas, processes, and performance. Our workplace is built on respect, inclusivity, and shared responsibility, ensuring every team member feels valued and contributes to our collective success.

Innovative & Sustainability Focused: Advanced Drainage Systems is one of the largest plastic recyclers in North America, ensuring over half a billion pounds of plastic is kept out of landfills every year.

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ADS supports an inclusive workplace that values diversity of thought, experience, and background. We celebrate the power of our differences to create better solutions for our customers by ensuring employees can be their authentic selves each day. ADS is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, pregnancy, veteran status, marital status, creed, status with regard to public assistance, genetic status or any other status protected by federal, state or local law.