Creative Program Manager Jobs in Columbus, OH (NOW HIRING)

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.

We are seeking a Forklift Program Manager to lead ADS’s enterprise-wide forklift and material handling program. This role oversees a fleet of 700+ powered industrial vehicles, driving operational excellence, safety, and reliability. The position focuses on preventative maintenance, vendor partnerships, and data-driven improvements to ensure compliance, optimize performance, and support continuous improvement initiatives across the ADS network.

• Lead the ADS Forklift Program, managing lifecycle and performance of 700+ industrial vehicles.
• Develop and maintain preventative maintenance protocols and work order systems.
• Ensure accurate asset creation and compliance with Fixed Asset accounting standards.
• Collaborate with vendors to optimize predictive service and fleet reliability.
• Partner with safety teams to integrate mobile equipment safety programs.
• Analyze maintenance and asset data to identify trends and forecast needs.
• Create and publish SOPs; lead training for consistent program execution.
• Cultivate vendor relationships to drive innovation and cost efficiency.
• Provide reporting on key initiatives, asset history, and performance metrics.
• Champion continuous improvement initiatives for long-term sustainability.

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent work experience.
• Minimum 5 years in a manufacturing environment.
• Preferred: Experience as Reliability Engineer or Maintenance Manager.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work safely around plant equipment.
• Willingness to travel up to 25%.

• Proven leadership in fleet maintenance programs.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing operations and material handling systems.
• Experience with telematics integration and CMMS systems.
• Project management expertise with ability to lead cross-functional initiatives.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and business analytics tools.
• Skilled in problem-solving and root cause analysis.
• Ability to develop business cases for capital investments.
• Excellent communication and vendor relationship management skills.
  

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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.

Learn More: https://www.adspipe.com/about-us

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.