Lead Operator

About the role

Advanced Drainage Systems (ADS) is a leading manufacturer of stormwater and onsite septic wastewater solutions, committed to sustainability and innovation. We deliver high-quality products across multiple industries while recycling over half a billion pounds of plastic annually. This position reports directly to the shift Production Supervisor and requires flexibility to work 40+ hours per week, including weekends and varying shifts due to equipment changeovers.

Responsibilities

• Direct daily work activities of production personnel
• Practice proper PPE compliance and maintain a safe working record and environment
• Complete shift production and reporting paperwork
• Immediately communicate unsafe conditions, acts, or injuries to Production Supervisor
• Meet ADS and AASHTO quality specifications for all products produced
• Assist with Preventive Maintenance program as required
• Troubleshoot process and mechanical problems; perform repairs and adjustments to meet production needs
• Practice proper forklift operation and preventive maintenance
• Maintain ability to operate various production lines and processes effectively; earn certifications
• Maintain facility housekeeping
• Adhere to ADS product sampling schedule
• Maintain and build job skills through company training programs
• Perform tooling changeovers efficiently as required
• Meet or exceed standard production efficiencies on all production lines
• Understand and practice ADS CORE VALUES

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• 2-3 years experience as an ADS Line Operator or previous manufacturing operation/extrusion experience (preferred)

Skills

• Leadership, professionalism, organizational, and communication skills
• Mechanical troubleshooting and repair abilities
• Ability to operate heavy machinery (e.g., forklifts) safely
• Basic computer skills
• Reading and writing skills
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Self-motivated

Physical Requirements

• Ability to repeatedly lift 75 pounds to a height of 6 feet
• Ability to stand and be mobile for a minimum of 8-12 continuous hours
• Ability to perform physical labor for extended periods in temperature extremes
• Ability to use hands, arms, and legs to physically handle and transport finished goods
• Full range of body motion including twisting, bending, reaching, squatting, and ability to mount/dismount industrial equipment and vehicles

Benefits

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 physical therapy*
• Employee assistance program (EAP)*
• Voluntary accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnification programs

Financial Benefits

• Retirement 401k program with company match
• 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 and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D)* (100% paid by ADS)
• Adoption financial reimbursement*
• Tuition reimbursement*
• Voluntary life insurance (for employees, spouses, and children)
• Voluntary identity theft and fraud protection