1

Downstream Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Downstream Technician

Clifford, MI · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

A Plastic Manufacturing Technician is also required to assist Line Operators with line start-ups, shutdowns and tooling changeovers. Partners closely with the Line Operator to meet established ...

Downstream Technician

Owosso, MI · On-site

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

A Plastic Manufacturing Technician is also required to assist Line Operators with line start-ups, shutdowns and tooling changeovers. Partners closely with the Line Operator to meet established ...

Downstream Technician

Owosso, MI · On-site

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

A Plastic Manufacturing Technician is also required to assist Line Operators with line start-ups, shutdowns and tooling changeovers. Partners closely with the Line Operator to meet established ...

Downstream Technician

Perry, GA · On-site

$19.50 - $26/hr

A Plastic Manufacturing Technician is responsible for the packaging, labeling and visual quality inspection of all products produced on their respective production line. A Plastic Manufacturing ...

Downstream Technician

Owosso, MI

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

A Plastic Manufacturing Technician is also required to assist Line Operators with line start-ups, shutdowns and tooling changeovers. Partners closely with the Line Operator to meet established ...

Downstream Technician

Owosso, MI

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

A Plastic Manufacturing Technician is also required to assist Line Operators with line start-ups, shutdowns and tooling changeovers. Partners closely with the Line Operator to meet established ...

Downstream Technician

Sebring, FL · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

A Plastic Manufacturing Technician is responsible for the packaging, labeling and visual quality inspection of all products produced on their respective production line. A Plastic Manufacturing ...

Downstream Technician

Findlay, OH · On-site

$20.50 - $27/hr

A Plastic Manufacturing Technician is also required to assist Line Operators with line start-ups, shutdowns and tooling changeovers. Partners closely with the Line Operator to meet established ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Downstream Technician information

See salary details

$5

$14

$18

How much do downstream technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for downstream technician in the United States is $14.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $15.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a downstream technician?

Downstream Technicians are professionals responsible for the processing, purification, and packaging of products in industries such as oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, or chemical manufacturing. They operate and maintain equipment used in the downstream phase, which occurs after the initial production or extraction of raw materials. Their duties often involve monitoring systems, troubleshooting issues, ensuring quality control, and adhering to safety regulations. Downstream Technicians play a crucial role in ensuring that finished products meet industry standards before reaching consumers.

What are some of the typical challenges a downstream technician faces during daily operations?

Downstream Technicians often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and adhering to rigorous safety protocols in a fast-paced production environment. Working with complex machinery requires quick problem-solving and strong attention to detail, especially during product changeovers or unexpected process interruptions. Collaboration with upstream operators, maintenance teams, and quality control staff is essential to minimize downtime and ensure smooth workflow throughout the shift.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a downstream technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Downstream Technician, you generally need a solid understanding of mechanical processes, quality control, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or technical degree. Familiarity with extrusion equipment, measuring tools, and production monitoring systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure consistent product quality, efficient operations, and a safe working environment in manufacturing settings.

What is the difference between Downstream Technician vs Upstream Technician?

AspectDownstream TechnicianUpstream Technician
CertificationsRelevant safety and technical certifications, such as HAZWOPER, OSHASimilar safety certifications, often including HAZWOPER and industry-specific licenses
Work EnvironmentRefineries, processing plants, and distribution facilitiesOil rigs, drilling sites, and exploration locations
Industry UsageRefining and distribution sectors of the oil and gas industryExploration and extraction sectors of the oil and gas industry

Downstream Technicians focus on refining, processing, and distributing petroleum products, working mainly in refineries. Upstream Technicians are involved in exploration and extraction activities at drilling sites. Both roles require safety certifications and industry-specific knowledge, but they operate in different parts of the oil and gas industry.

More about Downstream Technician jobs

What are popular job titles related to Downstream Technician jobs?

For Downstream Technician jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Downstream Technician job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,171 per year, or $15 per hour.

Downstream Technician

Clifford, MI • On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Advanced Drainage Systems rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 85 rated plastic manufacturers


Job description

Overview

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

A Plastic Manufacturing Technician is responsible for the packaging, labeling and visual quality inspection of all products produced on their respective production line. A Plastic Manufacturing Technician is also required to assist Line Operators with line start-ups, shutdowns and tooling changeovers. Partners closely with the Line Operator to meet established production goals.

AFTERNOONS - 3PM - 11:30PM

This position requires the flexibility to work 40+ hours per week and weekends as required. 

 

Responsibilities:

The responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:

  • Embrace a culture of safety
  • Ensure quality by conducting final visual inspections and labeling all finished goods
  • Track quantity of units produced from the production line to ensure efficiency
  • Utilize standard operating procedures to package pipe to be delivered to customers
  • Maintain a safe working environment that includes the consistent use of Personal Protection Equipment to ensure your safety
  • Assist with line tooling changes, start-ups, shutdowns and down-stream equipment set-up
  • Ability to learn and stay current on pipe specifications and packaging requirements
  • Practice continuous improvement which not only includes the line but also facility housekeeping
  • Invest in your career with ADS. Build and maintain job skills and additional earning potential through company training programs

 

Job Skills:

This position should possess the following skills/knowledge:

  • Self-motivated and the ability to work independently
  • Energetic and thrive in a fast-paced environment
  • Dependability
  • Ability to learn new skills
  • Team oriented
  • Basic Mathematical skills

Preferred Experience:

  • Previous industrial or manufacturing experience

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to perform physical labor for extended periods of time in fluctuating temperatures.
  • Position requires full range of body motion including twisting, bending, reaching, squatting and ability to mount/dismount industrial equipment and vehicles.
  • Ability to stand and be mobile throughout an 8-12-hour shift.
  • Ability to use hands, arms and legs to physically handle and transport finished goods.

Benefits:

We offer a competitive salary and an excellent benefits program including:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Retirement Plan
  • Paid Holidays/ Vacation Days
  • And much more
Company 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*, 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.

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.

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

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.

Employment Type: OTHER

What Advanced Drainage Systems employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom