Panasonic Energy Corporation of North America
Manufacturing Engineer II
Panasonic Energy Corporation of North America, De Soto, Kansas, United States, 66018
Overview
Do you want to join a team that's changing the world? Do you have a strong background as a Manufacturing Engineer II? Then we're looking for you. Put your skills to meaningful use and work with world-class team members who share the same vision. Join the PECNA team today! Responsibilities
Meet the Recruiter: Eric Laffey Job Summary
The Manufacturing Engineer II is a self-directed professional responsible for optimizing production processes, driving efficiency, and maintaining high product quality in a fast-paced lithium-ion battery manufacturing facility. With a minimum of two years of experience, this engineer leads small-scale projects, resolves complex technical issues, and implements sustainable process improvements. The role collaborates cross-functionally and mentors junior engineers, contributing to a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement. Success in this role requires strong problem-solving skills, hands-on engineering ability, and a proactive approach to operational excellence. Essential Duties
Process Optimization & Documentation:
Independently analyze and improve manufacturing processes to reduce waste and increase efficiency; conduct data-driven process analysis, including time studies and capability assessments; develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions; lead root cause analysis and implement corrective/preventive actions with minimal supervision Equipment Troubleshooting & Maintenance Support:
Diagnose and resolve equipment malfunctions independently; work with maintenance teams to support and improve preventative maintenance strategies; support initiatives to improve equipment reliability and maximize uptime Automation & Technology Integration:
Participate in and support the implementation and maintenance of automated systems; lead small-scale automation tasks and coordinate with controls teams to optimize production technology; apply understanding of control strategies, PLCs, sensors, and actuator systems in automation initiatives Quality Assurance & Compliance:
Implement and maintain quality control systems to ensure product conformance to specifications; use tools such as SPC, FTA, and FMEA to proactively identify and address quality issues; collaborate with quality teams to monitor key process parameters and ensure regulatory compliance Project Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration:
Lead small process improvement and equipment upgrade projects from planning through execution; collaborate effectively with production, maintenance, quality, and engineering teams to ensure alignment and timely project delivery; communicate technical findings and progress updates clearly across teams Safety & Mentorship:
Promote a safe working environment by adhering to and supporting site safety regulations and initiatives; participate in safety-related activities and equipment commissioning with an emphasis on safety compliance; provide informal guidance to junior engineers, especially in areas of safety, equipment troubleshooting, and process optimization Qualifications
Education Required: Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a closely related field. Preferred: Master’s degree in Engineering or related discipline Essential Qualifications 2+ years of engineering experience in a manufacturing environment Proven engineering skills with a track record of independently leading tasks and small projects Solid understanding of manufacturing principles and hands-on experience applying them Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot mechanical/electrical systems and interpret engineering documentation (CAD, MPI, P&IDs, etc.) Experience conducting root cause analysis and implementing effective corrective actions Strong data analysis capabilities using SPC, capability studies, and process mapping tools Excellent communication skills with the ability to collaborate across departments Adaptable and proactive in managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment Must have working-level knowledge of the English language, including reading, writing, and speaking English Alignment to Panasonic’s seven core principles (contribution to society, fairness and honesty, cooperation and team spirit, untiring effort for improvement, courtesy and humility, adaptability, gratitude) Preferred Qualifications 3 - 5 years of engineering experience, ideally in a high-volume manufacturing environment Practical experience applying Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies Experience designing and deploying fixtures, jigs, and custom tooling Involvement in the installation, commissioning, and validation of production equipment Familiarity with control systems, PLCs, and sensor-based automation Exposure to Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) or basic industrial data analysis Hands-on experience in high-volume manufacturing (1M+ units/day) such as batteries, semiconductors, or electronics Practical experience with basic fabrication or machine shop tools and techniques Preferred Certification(s) Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certified Manufacturing Technologist (CMfgT) PLC Programming Certification (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens) Certified Automation Professional (CAP) - ISA OSHA 30-Hour General Industry Certification Physical Demands
Sit: 30% Walk: 30% Stand: 30% Lift: 10% Benefits & Perks - What's In It For You Comprehensive healthcare options including family planning, mental health, and pet insurance Employee assistance programs with complimentary sessions each month Company-matched 401K retirement program that starts at enrollment Annual bonus program and employee recognition platforms Financial wellness and retirement planning resources Educational Assistance & Reimbursement Program Inclusion programs and employee resource groups Leadership, career, and mentorship development opportunities Where You'll Be
Onsite roles at Panasonic Energy focus on creating a productive and fulfilling work environment that supports growth and a positive atmosphere. Who We Are
Panasonic Energy is dedicated to transforming the world through sustainable energy by producing safe, high-quality lithium-ion batteries. We are expanding to De Soto, Kansas and offer opportunities for career growth and innovation in EV technology. Supplemental Information
Pre-employment drug testing is required. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law. All qualified individuals must perform essential functions with or without accommodation. R-102074
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Do you want to join a team that's changing the world? Do you have a strong background as a Manufacturing Engineer II? Then we're looking for you. Put your skills to meaningful use and work with world-class team members who share the same vision. Join the PECNA team today! Responsibilities
Meet the Recruiter: Eric Laffey Job Summary
The Manufacturing Engineer II is a self-directed professional responsible for optimizing production processes, driving efficiency, and maintaining high product quality in a fast-paced lithium-ion battery manufacturing facility. With a minimum of two years of experience, this engineer leads small-scale projects, resolves complex technical issues, and implements sustainable process improvements. The role collaborates cross-functionally and mentors junior engineers, contributing to a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement. Success in this role requires strong problem-solving skills, hands-on engineering ability, and a proactive approach to operational excellence. Essential Duties
Process Optimization & Documentation:
Independently analyze and improve manufacturing processes to reduce waste and increase efficiency; conduct data-driven process analysis, including time studies and capability assessments; develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions; lead root cause analysis and implement corrective/preventive actions with minimal supervision Equipment Troubleshooting & Maintenance Support:
Diagnose and resolve equipment malfunctions independently; work with maintenance teams to support and improve preventative maintenance strategies; support initiatives to improve equipment reliability and maximize uptime Automation & Technology Integration:
Participate in and support the implementation and maintenance of automated systems; lead small-scale automation tasks and coordinate with controls teams to optimize production technology; apply understanding of control strategies, PLCs, sensors, and actuator systems in automation initiatives Quality Assurance & Compliance:
Implement and maintain quality control systems to ensure product conformance to specifications; use tools such as SPC, FTA, and FMEA to proactively identify and address quality issues; collaborate with quality teams to monitor key process parameters and ensure regulatory compliance Project Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration:
Lead small process improvement and equipment upgrade projects from planning through execution; collaborate effectively with production, maintenance, quality, and engineering teams to ensure alignment and timely project delivery; communicate technical findings and progress updates clearly across teams Safety & Mentorship:
Promote a safe working environment by adhering to and supporting site safety regulations and initiatives; participate in safety-related activities and equipment commissioning with an emphasis on safety compliance; provide informal guidance to junior engineers, especially in areas of safety, equipment troubleshooting, and process optimization Qualifications
Education Required: Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a closely related field. Preferred: Master’s degree in Engineering or related discipline Essential Qualifications 2+ years of engineering experience in a manufacturing environment Proven engineering skills with a track record of independently leading tasks and small projects Solid understanding of manufacturing principles and hands-on experience applying them Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot mechanical/electrical systems and interpret engineering documentation (CAD, MPI, P&IDs, etc.) Experience conducting root cause analysis and implementing effective corrective actions Strong data analysis capabilities using SPC, capability studies, and process mapping tools Excellent communication skills with the ability to collaborate across departments Adaptable and proactive in managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment Must have working-level knowledge of the English language, including reading, writing, and speaking English Alignment to Panasonic’s seven core principles (contribution to society, fairness and honesty, cooperation and team spirit, untiring effort for improvement, courtesy and humility, adaptability, gratitude) Preferred Qualifications 3 - 5 years of engineering experience, ideally in a high-volume manufacturing environment Practical experience applying Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies Experience designing and deploying fixtures, jigs, and custom tooling Involvement in the installation, commissioning, and validation of production equipment Familiarity with control systems, PLCs, and sensor-based automation Exposure to Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) or basic industrial data analysis Hands-on experience in high-volume manufacturing (1M+ units/day) such as batteries, semiconductors, or electronics Practical experience with basic fabrication or machine shop tools and techniques Preferred Certification(s) Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certified Manufacturing Technologist (CMfgT) PLC Programming Certification (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens) Certified Automation Professional (CAP) - ISA OSHA 30-Hour General Industry Certification Physical Demands
Sit: 30% Walk: 30% Stand: 30% Lift: 10% Benefits & Perks - What's In It For You Comprehensive healthcare options including family planning, mental health, and pet insurance Employee assistance programs with complimentary sessions each month Company-matched 401K retirement program that starts at enrollment Annual bonus program and employee recognition platforms Financial wellness and retirement planning resources Educational Assistance & Reimbursement Program Inclusion programs and employee resource groups Leadership, career, and mentorship development opportunities Where You'll Be
Onsite roles at Panasonic Energy focus on creating a productive and fulfilling work environment that supports growth and a positive atmosphere. Who We Are
Panasonic Energy is dedicated to transforming the world through sustainable energy by producing safe, high-quality lithium-ion batteries. We are expanding to De Soto, Kansas and offer opportunities for career growth and innovation in EV technology. Supplemental Information
Pre-employment drug testing is required. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law. All qualified individuals must perform essential functions with or without accommodation. R-102074
#J-18808-Ljbffr