Panasonic Energy Corporation of North America
Director of Cell and Process Engineering
Panasonic Energy Corporation of North America, De Soto, Kansas, United States, 66018
Director of Cell and Process Engineering
Join us at Panasonic Energy as we expand to De Soto, Kansas, where we’re building the world’s largest lithium-ion battery factory. This is an exciting opportunity to grow your career while contributing to the future of electric vehicles. As part of our team, you’ll help push the limits of battery technology, enhancing performance and efficiency in sustainable transportation.
Our state‑of‑the‑art facility, just outside the Kansas City Metro, will be a hub for innovation in green energy solutions. If you’re passionate about sustainability and eager to contribute to the electric vehicle revolution, we invite you to be part of our dynamic team. Join us and make a meaningful impact on the future of energy and transportation.
Job Summary The Director of Cell and Process Engineering leads the cell and process engineering organization within a high‑volume lithium‑ion battery manufacturing environment. This role provides strategic and operational leadership across multiple engineering teams responsible for process design, optimization, and technology deployment. The Director develops and implements strategies that improve production capability, quality, and efficiency while ensuring alignment with site and corporate objectives. Through effective leadership, collaboration, and technical excellence, this position drives innovation, standardization, and continuous improvement to support the company’s growth and long‑term manufacturing success.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical, Materials, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s or Ph.D. in Chemical, Materials, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
Six Sigma Black Belt or Master Black Belt
Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE – ASQ)
Project Management Professional (PMP – PMI)
Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE – SME)
Essential Qualifications
10+ years of progressive experience in process engineering, manufacturing engineering, or product development within high‑volume manufacturing environments
Proven experience managing multiple engineering teams or functions with accountability for planning and performance
Demonstrated success developing and executing technical strategies that improve production capability, efficiency, and quality
Strong collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to partner effectively with senior leaders and cross‑functional stakeholders
Recognized expertise in process optimization, automation, and manufacturing system integration
Proficiency in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and structured problem‑solving (DOE, SPC, MSA)
Strong financial and business acumen with experience managing budgets and capital projects
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and engineering/data systems (e.g., MES, SCADA, SQL, Tableau, Ignition)
Alignment with Panasonic’s seven core principles (contribution to society, fairness and honesty, cooperation and team spirit, untiring effort for improvement, courtesy and humility, adaptability, gratitude)
Additional Preferred Qualifications
Leadership experience in large‑scale battery, electronics, or precision manufacturing industries
In‑depth knowledge of lithium‑ion cell design, materials, and manufacturing processes
Experience implementing Industry 4.0 or digital manufacturing initiatives
Strong understanding of ISO, IATF, OSHA, and other regulatory standards
Proficiency in both English and Japanese, enabling effective communication with domestic and international stakeholders
Travel Requirement
This position may require up to 20% domestic travel and occasional international travel to support cross‑site collaboration, supplier engagement, and industry events
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements
To ensure health and safety in the workplace and for employee protection, wearing PPE is a possibility and includes equipment such as a full Tyvek suit, safety shoes, gloves, safety glasses, face mask, and a full hazmat suit that includes a respirator. A respirator fit test will be required based on functional area.
Physical Demands Physical Activities:
Percentage of time (equaling 100%) during the normal workday the employee is required to:
Sit: 40%
Walk: 30%
Stand: 20%
Lift: 10%
Required Lifting and Carrying:
Not required (0%), Occasional (1‑33%), Frequent (34‑66%), Continuous (67‑100%)
For this position, the required frequency is:
Up to 10 lbs.: Occasional
Up to 20 lbs.: Occasional
Up to 35 lbs.: Occasional
Team‑lift only (over 35 lbs.): Not Required
Who We Are Meet Panasonic Energy! At Panasonic Energy, you’ll do work that matters as we are dedicated to transforming the world through the acceleration of sustainable energy. By producing safe, high‑quality lithium‑ion batteries, you become part of a team that plays a crucial role in creating technologies that move us.
This is an exciting time to join us as we expand our operations to De Soto, Kansas and build the world’s largest lithium‑ion battery factory. We will provide you with the opportunity to experience career growth in more ways than one.
As an innovative thinker, you’ll thrive here, as we continually push the boundaries of lithium‑ion battery technology and production capabilities to enhance efficiency and performance in EVs.
Being part of Panasonic Energy means positively contributing to society, aligning with our commitment to building a better world through sustainable energy solutions.
We care about what you care about, fostering an environment where your contributions make a meaningful impact on the future of energy and transportation. Join us and be part of a team that values your work, encourages innovation, and actively contributes to a positive societal impact.
In addition to an environment that is as innovative as our products, we offer competitive salaries and benefits.
We Take Opportunity Seriously At Panasonic Energy, we are committed to a workplace that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. Fairness and Honesty have been part of our core values for more than 100 years and we are proud of our diverse culture as an equal opportunity employer.
We understand that your career search may look different than others and embrace the professional, personal, educational, and volunteer opportunities through which people gain experience. If you are actively looking or starting to explore new opportunities, submit your application!
Where You’ll Be For our on‑site roles, Panasonic Energy is committed to fostering an ideal working environment that goes beyond the conventional. We understand the significance of moments that matter in your on‑site experience, and we prioritize creating a workspace that not only promotes productivity but also ensures a fulfilling and positive work atmosphere. Join us at Panasonic Energy, where your on‑site presence is valued, and we strive to make each moment count in your professional journey.
Benefits & Perks – What’s In It For You
Highly inclusive and class‑leading healthcare options to include family planning, mental health, and pet insurance
Employee assistance programs that support total well‑being with complimentary sessions offered each and every month
Company‑matched and fully vested 401K retirement program that starts immediately from date of enrollment
Annual bonus program, High5 employee recognition and awards platform, quarterly and annual employee recognition
Simplified access to self‑guided and representative‑supported short and long‑term financial wellness and retirement planning
Educational Assistance & Reimbursement Program
Inclusion programs and associated employee resource groups that promote representation and belonging
Leadership, career, and mentorship development programs opportunities at all levels across the organization
Collaborative and motivating culture rooted in continuous personal and professional growth and much more
Supplemental Information Pre‑employment drug testing is required.
Equal Employment Opportunity Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. All qualified individuals are required to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.
Due to the high volume of responses, we will only be able to respond to candidates of interest. All candidates must have valid authorization to work in the U.S. without restriction.
Thank you for your interest in Panasonic Energy Corporation of North America.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Our state‑of‑the‑art facility, just outside the Kansas City Metro, will be a hub for innovation in green energy solutions. If you’re passionate about sustainability and eager to contribute to the electric vehicle revolution, we invite you to be part of our dynamic team. Join us and make a meaningful impact on the future of energy and transportation.
Job Summary The Director of Cell and Process Engineering leads the cell and process engineering organization within a high‑volume lithium‑ion battery manufacturing environment. This role provides strategic and operational leadership across multiple engineering teams responsible for process design, optimization, and technology deployment. The Director develops and implements strategies that improve production capability, quality, and efficiency while ensuring alignment with site and corporate objectives. Through effective leadership, collaboration, and technical excellence, this position drives innovation, standardization, and continuous improvement to support the company’s growth and long‑term manufacturing success.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical, Materials, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s or Ph.D. in Chemical, Materials, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
Six Sigma Black Belt or Master Black Belt
Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE – ASQ)
Project Management Professional (PMP – PMI)
Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE – SME)
Essential Qualifications
10+ years of progressive experience in process engineering, manufacturing engineering, or product development within high‑volume manufacturing environments
Proven experience managing multiple engineering teams or functions with accountability for planning and performance
Demonstrated success developing and executing technical strategies that improve production capability, efficiency, and quality
Strong collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to partner effectively with senior leaders and cross‑functional stakeholders
Recognized expertise in process optimization, automation, and manufacturing system integration
Proficiency in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and structured problem‑solving (DOE, SPC, MSA)
Strong financial and business acumen with experience managing budgets and capital projects
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and engineering/data systems (e.g., MES, SCADA, SQL, Tableau, Ignition)
Alignment with Panasonic’s seven core principles (contribution to society, fairness and honesty, cooperation and team spirit, untiring effort for improvement, courtesy and humility, adaptability, gratitude)
Additional Preferred Qualifications
Leadership experience in large‑scale battery, electronics, or precision manufacturing industries
In‑depth knowledge of lithium‑ion cell design, materials, and manufacturing processes
Experience implementing Industry 4.0 or digital manufacturing initiatives
Strong understanding of ISO, IATF, OSHA, and other regulatory standards
Proficiency in both English and Japanese, enabling effective communication with domestic and international stakeholders
Travel Requirement
This position may require up to 20% domestic travel and occasional international travel to support cross‑site collaboration, supplier engagement, and industry events
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements
To ensure health and safety in the workplace and for employee protection, wearing PPE is a possibility and includes equipment such as a full Tyvek suit, safety shoes, gloves, safety glasses, face mask, and a full hazmat suit that includes a respirator. A respirator fit test will be required based on functional area.
Physical Demands Physical Activities:
Percentage of time (equaling 100%) during the normal workday the employee is required to:
Sit: 40%
Walk: 30%
Stand: 20%
Lift: 10%
Required Lifting and Carrying:
Not required (0%), Occasional (1‑33%), Frequent (34‑66%), Continuous (67‑100%)
For this position, the required frequency is:
Up to 10 lbs.: Occasional
Up to 20 lbs.: Occasional
Up to 35 lbs.: Occasional
Team‑lift only (over 35 lbs.): Not Required
Who We Are Meet Panasonic Energy! At Panasonic Energy, you’ll do work that matters as we are dedicated to transforming the world through the acceleration of sustainable energy. By producing safe, high‑quality lithium‑ion batteries, you become part of a team that plays a crucial role in creating technologies that move us.
This is an exciting time to join us as we expand our operations to De Soto, Kansas and build the world’s largest lithium‑ion battery factory. We will provide you with the opportunity to experience career growth in more ways than one.
As an innovative thinker, you’ll thrive here, as we continually push the boundaries of lithium‑ion battery technology and production capabilities to enhance efficiency and performance in EVs.
Being part of Panasonic Energy means positively contributing to society, aligning with our commitment to building a better world through sustainable energy solutions.
We care about what you care about, fostering an environment where your contributions make a meaningful impact on the future of energy and transportation. Join us and be part of a team that values your work, encourages innovation, and actively contributes to a positive societal impact.
In addition to an environment that is as innovative as our products, we offer competitive salaries and benefits.
We Take Opportunity Seriously At Panasonic Energy, we are committed to a workplace that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. Fairness and Honesty have been part of our core values for more than 100 years and we are proud of our diverse culture as an equal opportunity employer.
We understand that your career search may look different than others and embrace the professional, personal, educational, and volunteer opportunities through which people gain experience. If you are actively looking or starting to explore new opportunities, submit your application!
Where You’ll Be For our on‑site roles, Panasonic Energy is committed to fostering an ideal working environment that goes beyond the conventional. We understand the significance of moments that matter in your on‑site experience, and we prioritize creating a workspace that not only promotes productivity but also ensures a fulfilling and positive work atmosphere. Join us at Panasonic Energy, where your on‑site presence is valued, and we strive to make each moment count in your professional journey.
Benefits & Perks – What’s In It For You
Highly inclusive and class‑leading healthcare options to include family planning, mental health, and pet insurance
Employee assistance programs that support total well‑being with complimentary sessions offered each and every month
Company‑matched and fully vested 401K retirement program that starts immediately from date of enrollment
Annual bonus program, High5 employee recognition and awards platform, quarterly and annual employee recognition
Simplified access to self‑guided and representative‑supported short and long‑term financial wellness and retirement planning
Educational Assistance & Reimbursement Program
Inclusion programs and associated employee resource groups that promote representation and belonging
Leadership, career, and mentorship development programs opportunities at all levels across the organization
Collaborative and motivating culture rooted in continuous personal and professional growth and much more
Supplemental Information Pre‑employment drug testing is required.
Equal Employment Opportunity Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. All qualified individuals are required to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.
Due to the high volume of responses, we will only be able to respond to candidates of interest. All candidates must have valid authorization to work in the U.S. without restriction.
Thank you for your interest in Panasonic Energy Corporation of North America.
#J-18808-Ljbffr