Process Improvement Lead

Process Improvement Lead

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.

Responsibilities

We are looking for a Process Improvement Lead to join our team! The Process Improvement Lead is a key member of the Network Optimization function, driving operational excellence across 30+ manufacturing plants and managing $200M in tooling assets. You'll lead the execution of tooling maintenance, vendor development, and logistics strategy to improve asset reliability and reduce costs. This position will collaborate closely with teams across our various facilities and offers the flexibility to work remotely or from any of our locations throughout the United States.

Key Responsibilities : Lead Tooling Operations : Train teams and vendors on tooling repair and reliability. Optimize Logistics : Align tooling inventory with production schedules and manage freight budgets. Develop Standards & Training : Create training content and coach teams on best practices. Execute Projects : Manage high-impact tooling maintenance and upgrade initiatives. Collaborate Cross-Functionally : Work with engineering, supply chain, and plant teams to drive improvements. Strengthen Data Systems : Improve asset tracking and data accuracy in Oracle and CMMS platforms. Influence Leadership : Present results and recommendations to senior leaders. Promote Excellence : Uphold safety, Lean principles, and company values.

Travel up to 40% of the time visiting our manufacturing facilities throughout the United States.

Qualifications : 3-5+ years in manufacturing, maintenance, logistics, or project management. Bachelor's degree (Engineering or Supply Chain preferred). Experience with tooling, fabrication, or plastics extrusion. Strong skills in vendor management, ERP / CMMS systems, and data analysis. Excellent communication, coaching, and project leadership abilities.

Skills & Competencies : Expertise in industrial equipment maintenance, manufacturing operations, and logistics. Proficiency with ERP / CMMS Systems (Oracle Inventory and Maintenance Connection) Advanced capability in vendor management and proven cross functional project leadership Ability to multi-task with excellent time management and organization Strong communication, coaching, and presentation skills with the ability to influence at all organizational levels Strong aptitude with Microsoft Office suite of applications for business and technical writing Ability to mine, analyze, and reconcile large datasets to drive cost savings

Company Benefits

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

Why Join 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.

EEO Statement

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.