Panasonic Energy Corporation of North America
Quality Control Technician Lead - Level 5
Panasonic Energy Corporation of North America, De Soto, Kansas, United States, 66018
Quality Control Technician Lead - Level 5
2 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants
Overview Do you want to join a team that's changing the world? Do you have a strong background as a Quality Control Technician Lead – Level 5? Then we're looking for you! Check out the job description and apply now! Put your skills to meaningful use, gain unique experience, and work with world-class team members with diverse backgrounds and expertise who share the same vision. Join the PECNA team today!
Responsibilities 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.
Job Summary The Quality Control Technician Lead - Level 5 plays a key role in supporting day‑to‑day quality operations within a high‑volume lithium‑ion battery manufacturing environment. Reporting to the Quality Supervisor, this role ensures product compliance with customer specifications by driving root cause analysis, issue resolution, and process improvement. The position requires close collaboration with Operations, Engineering, and Maintenance teams to identify and address quality concerns. A strong focus on data interpretation, team leadership, and continuous improvement is essential to achieving quality and production goals.
Essential Duties Functional Operations
Operate and maintain tools and equipment within functional area
Perform product inspections and testing using appropriate measurement tools and methods
Ability to work all scheduled shift hours
Performance Optimization & Continuous Improvement
Interpret and analyze quality data tied to Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Develop and maintain process alarms using Python scripts and Foundry to proactively identify quality deviations
Utilize data visualization tools to track nonconformities and drive process improvements
Recommend and support corrective or preventive actions based on data analysis findings
Uphold 6S and plant cleanliness standards
Training & Team Support
Provide process guidance and technical support to QA Inspectors and Technicians
Conduct hands‑on training to others at same or lower level within functional area to improve inspection proficiency and adherence to standards
No authority to hire, transfer, suspend, lay off, recall, promote, discharge, reward, or discipline other employees
Cross‑Functional Collaboration & Communication
Collaborate with Operations, Engineering, and Maintenance to resolve quality issues in a timely manner
Lead containment and corrective actions for nonconforming materials and processes
Communicate effectively across departments and escalate issues as needed
Present quality findings, trends, and improvement recommendations to cross‑functional teams to support decision‑making
Quality, Safety, & Compliance
Support proper implementation of processes and procedures to ensure compliance with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and customer specifications
Execute product and process audits independently and document findings
Maintain accurate records of inspections, deviations, and corrective actions
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements
To ensure the health and safety in the workplace and for our employees’ 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.
Education Qualifications
Required: High school diploma, GED, or 2 years of prior experience in functional area
Preferred: Associate or Bachelor’s degree in a technical field (e.g., Engineering, Quality, Industrial Technology)
Essential Qualifications
4+ years of experience in quality assurance, quality control, or manufacturing inspection
Strong working knowledge of quality systems, inspection methods, and root cause analysis tools (e.g., 5 Whys, Fishbone, DMAIC)
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data visualization tools (e.g., Foundry AI, Tableau, Power BI)
Basic scripting knowledge, especially in Python, for data analysis and automation
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Ability to lead and train cross‑functional teams
Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage priorities, and make data‑driven decisions
Must have working‑level knowledge of the English language, including reading, writing, and speaking English
Preferred Qualifications
8+ years of related experience, including 3‑5 years in QA roles with a strong focus on corrective and containment actions
Six Sigma Green Belt or equivalent continuous improvement experience
Background in battery, automotive, or electronics manufacturing
Familiarity with ISO 9001, IATF 16949, and related quality systems
Proficient in SPC, FMEA, control plans, and PPAP
Advanced Python skills for automation and alarm development
Experience with MES and ERP systems
Alignment to Panasonic’s seven (7) core principles (contribution to society, fairness and honesty, cooperation and team spirit, untiring effort for improvement, courtesy and humility, adaptability, gratitude)
Preferred Certification(s)
Certified Quality Technician (CQT)
Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or higher)
Physical Demands Physical Activities:
Sit: 10%
Walk: 70%
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.: Frequent
Up to 20 lbs.: Frequent
Up to 35 lbs.: Occasional
Team‑lift only (over 35 lbs.): Occasional
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 onsite 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 onsite 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 onsite presence is valued, and we strive to make each moment count in your professional journey.
Benefits & Perks - What's In It For You
Health Benefits - Offering medical, dental, vision, prescription plans, plus Health Savings Account and Flexible Spending Account options.
Voluntary Benefits - Life, accident, critical illness, disability, legal, identity theft, and pet insurance.
Panasonic Retirement Savings & Investment Plan (PRSIP) - 401(k) plan with company matching contributions and immediate vesting.
Paid Time‑Off Benefits - Vacation, holidays, personal days, sick leave, volunteer, and parental & caregiver leave.
Educational Assistance - Tuition reimbursement for job‑related courses after six months of service.
Health Management and Wellbeing Programs - Lifestyle Spending Account, EAP, virtual health management, chronic condition, neurodiversity, tobacco cessation, substance abuse support, and life stage and fertility resources. Available to eligible employees starting the first day of the month following your start date. Eligibility for each benefit may vary based on employment status, location, and length of service.
Employee Recognition Program - High5 employee recognition and awards platform, quarterly and annual employee recognition.
Supplemental Information Pre‑employment drug testing is required.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, 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. R-103158
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Overview Do you want to join a team that's changing the world? Do you have a strong background as a Quality Control Technician Lead – Level 5? Then we're looking for you! Check out the job description and apply now! Put your skills to meaningful use, gain unique experience, and work with world-class team members with diverse backgrounds and expertise who share the same vision. Join the PECNA team today!
Responsibilities 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.
Job Summary The Quality Control Technician Lead - Level 5 plays a key role in supporting day‑to‑day quality operations within a high‑volume lithium‑ion battery manufacturing environment. Reporting to the Quality Supervisor, this role ensures product compliance with customer specifications by driving root cause analysis, issue resolution, and process improvement. The position requires close collaboration with Operations, Engineering, and Maintenance teams to identify and address quality concerns. A strong focus on data interpretation, team leadership, and continuous improvement is essential to achieving quality and production goals.
Essential Duties Functional Operations
Operate and maintain tools and equipment within functional area
Perform product inspections and testing using appropriate measurement tools and methods
Ability to work all scheduled shift hours
Performance Optimization & Continuous Improvement
Interpret and analyze quality data tied to Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Develop and maintain process alarms using Python scripts and Foundry to proactively identify quality deviations
Utilize data visualization tools to track nonconformities and drive process improvements
Recommend and support corrective or preventive actions based on data analysis findings
Uphold 6S and plant cleanliness standards
Training & Team Support
Provide process guidance and technical support to QA Inspectors and Technicians
Conduct hands‑on training to others at same or lower level within functional area to improve inspection proficiency and adherence to standards
No authority to hire, transfer, suspend, lay off, recall, promote, discharge, reward, or discipline other employees
Cross‑Functional Collaboration & Communication
Collaborate with Operations, Engineering, and Maintenance to resolve quality issues in a timely manner
Lead containment and corrective actions for nonconforming materials and processes
Communicate effectively across departments and escalate issues as needed
Present quality findings, trends, and improvement recommendations to cross‑functional teams to support decision‑making
Quality, Safety, & Compliance
Support proper implementation of processes and procedures to ensure compliance with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and customer specifications
Execute product and process audits independently and document findings
Maintain accurate records of inspections, deviations, and corrective actions
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements
To ensure the health and safety in the workplace and for our employees’ 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.
Education Qualifications
Required: High school diploma, GED, or 2 years of prior experience in functional area
Preferred: Associate or Bachelor’s degree in a technical field (e.g., Engineering, Quality, Industrial Technology)
Essential Qualifications
4+ years of experience in quality assurance, quality control, or manufacturing inspection
Strong working knowledge of quality systems, inspection methods, and root cause analysis tools (e.g., 5 Whys, Fishbone, DMAIC)
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data visualization tools (e.g., Foundry AI, Tableau, Power BI)
Basic scripting knowledge, especially in Python, for data analysis and automation
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Ability to lead and train cross‑functional teams
Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage priorities, and make data‑driven decisions
Must have working‑level knowledge of the English language, including reading, writing, and speaking English
Preferred Qualifications
8+ years of related experience, including 3‑5 years in QA roles with a strong focus on corrective and containment actions
Six Sigma Green Belt or equivalent continuous improvement experience
Background in battery, automotive, or electronics manufacturing
Familiarity with ISO 9001, IATF 16949, and related quality systems
Proficient in SPC, FMEA, control plans, and PPAP
Advanced Python skills for automation and alarm development
Experience with MES and ERP systems
Alignment to Panasonic’s seven (7) core principles (contribution to society, fairness and honesty, cooperation and team spirit, untiring effort for improvement, courtesy and humility, adaptability, gratitude)
Preferred Certification(s)
Certified Quality Technician (CQT)
Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or higher)
Physical Demands Physical Activities:
Sit: 10%
Walk: 70%
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.: Frequent
Up to 20 lbs.: Frequent
Up to 35 lbs.: Occasional
Team‑lift only (over 35 lbs.): Occasional
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 onsite 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 onsite 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 onsite presence is valued, and we strive to make each moment count in your professional journey.
Benefits & Perks - What's In It For You
Health Benefits - Offering medical, dental, vision, prescription plans, plus Health Savings Account and Flexible Spending Account options.
Voluntary Benefits - Life, accident, critical illness, disability, legal, identity theft, and pet insurance.
Panasonic Retirement Savings & Investment Plan (PRSIP) - 401(k) plan with company matching contributions and immediate vesting.
Paid Time‑Off Benefits - Vacation, holidays, personal days, sick leave, volunteer, and parental & caregiver leave.
Educational Assistance - Tuition reimbursement for job‑related courses after six months of service.
Health Management and Wellbeing Programs - Lifestyle Spending Account, EAP, virtual health management, chronic condition, neurodiversity, tobacco cessation, substance abuse support, and life stage and fertility resources. Available to eligible employees starting the first day of the month following your start date. Eligibility for each benefit may vary based on employment status, location, and length of service.
Employee Recognition Program - High5 employee recognition and awards platform, quarterly and annual employee recognition.
Supplemental Information Pre‑employment drug testing is required.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, 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. R-103158
#J-18808-Ljbffr