Materials Science Engineer

Advanced Drainage Systems•Columbus, OH

36d•Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

Working knowledge of polymer materials (HDPE, PP, or similar thermoplastics), with experience in formulation, compounding, or recycling preferred.
Evaluate the chemical and physical properties of various resin raw materials as they impact end-product performance using several techniques like DSC, FTIR, TGA, Rheometer, DMA, QUV, etc.
Experience with material specifications, documentation control, and technical standards in a manufacturing or R&D environment.
Experience developing or qualifying recycled resin blends for extrusion or molding applications.
Familiarity with manufacturing processes for thermoplastics, including extrusion.
Experience working closely with purchasing, suppliers, and manufacturing operations.
Background in materials testing, formulation optimization, or process troubleshooting.
Demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively on teams by interacting with other scientists, engineers, and technicians.
Good problem-solving skills and the willingness to solve complex problems using a systematic approach.
Exhibits initiative, curiosity, and a positive attitude on how to get the job done.
Strong technical communication skills, including documentation, training delivery, and cross-functional collaboration.
Understanding of material specification standards such as ASTM.
Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science & Engineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
2-5 years of experience in a materials testing or analytical lab setting. Entry level will be considered based on qualifications and experience.

Responsibilities

Develop, maintain, and control raw material purchase specifications to ensure material consistency, quality, and supplier alignment.
Provide technical oversight for the raw material specification master documentation system, ensuring accuracy, and fitment for use.
Partner with quality to maintain resin mix guidelines, ensuring clear communication of guidelines across engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams.
Maintain raw material Bills of Material (BOMs) in alignment with Product requirements and approved formulations.
Develop and maintain pipe plant blend requirements and ensure clear, standardized documentation for manufacturing execution.
Provide technical support to manufacturing plants related to material selection, blend performance, and processing concerns.
Develop, qualify, and trial new material blend formulations to meet performance, cost, and sustainability objectives.
Support optimization and ongoing maintenance of material blends and mix strategies in collaboration with all relevant stakeholders.
Conduct material evaluations, laboratory testing, and plant trials to validate new vendors, formulations, and process robustness.