Fabrication Specialist

Fabrication Specialist / Senior R&D Technician

The Fabrication Specialist / Senior R&D Technician plays a pivotal role in independently executing advanced fabrication and testing tasks, acting as a technical expert both in the shop and in the field. This position is responsible for ensuring that prototype builds are of exceptional quality and test procedures are carried out reliably and efficiently. In addition to supporting daily operations, the Senior R&D Technician mentors and guides junior technicians, continuously enhancing processes, tools, and methodologies to drive innovation and improvement. We are seeking a proactive and adaptable individual with a keen eye for detail, patience, and curiosity; a self-starter who thrives in a dynamic environment and enjoys collaborating with diverse teams. The Senior R&D Technician supports the Engineering and R&D shop in constructing and testing product and component prototypes, as well as developing fixtures for structural analysis, market research, and sales support. This role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to cutting-edge projects and be part of a team that values continuous learning and professional growth.

Core responsibilities include:

• Independently fabricate, assemble, and modify complex prototypes and test systems
• Lead setup, breakdown, and execution of outdoor and shop-based testing (burial, structural, long-term durability, etc.), including setup and breakdown of data acquisition hardware
• Diagnose and resolve issues related to prototype builds, installations, and test setups
• Ensure accuracy and consistency of test data collection, video/data capture, report generation, and documentation
• Perform post-test duties including data review, video retrieval, organization of results, and preparation of test summaries and reports
• Maintain proficiency with tools and software used to capture, organize, and communicate test results
• Provide guidance and training to R&D Technicians
• Support design teams by translating concepts into manufacturable/testable prototypes
• Maintain and troubleshoot shop tools and equipment; ensure proper setup and readiness
• Identify and implement improvements in fabrication methods, test setups, and efficiency
• Coordinate logistics for test setups (materials, equipment, site preparation)
• Stay abreast of new technology that will enhance our ability to visually capture testing moving toward an all-digital system.
• Support 2nd off-site test facility with building and testing of prototypes, including water collection for analysis and monitoring systems at facility.

Position impact and expected outcomes:

• Accelerate prototype development and iteration using proven and new, state-of-the-art fabrication methods
• Improve reliability and repeatability of R&D testing, applying measurement system evaluations and statistical principles
• Improve data capture and documentation practices with modern IT tools and systems
• Expand R&D shop capacity and capability for prototyping both large components and complex functional systems as found in advanced treatment systems
• Improve fabrication and testing efficiency for faster paced innovation in wastewater treatment systems
• Strengthen knowledge transfer and technical development for junior R&D Technicians

Experience, educational, and technical qualifications:

• Strong hands-on fabrication skills (wood, plastic, metal)
• Experience with mechanical and shop equipment including mills, bandsaws, lathes, jigsaws, table saws, drills, and other fabrication tools
• Familiarity in the trades (carpentry, plumbing, mechanical, etc.)
• Welding ability is a plus (will train)
• Ability to read and interpret drawings, schematics, and CAD outputs
• Report generation, editing & revisioning with MS Office software
• Technical troubleshooting and problem-solving
• Leadership through influence and mentoring
• Technical training or equivalent hands-on experience in fabrication, construction, or mechanical field
• Strong understanding of safe shop practices and field work requirements; forklift license preferred or ability to obtain certification
• Valid driver's license
• 4–8+ years in fabrication, R&D support, construction, or similar environment
• Demonstrated experience leading builds or coordinating field installations/testing

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.

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.