Panasonic Energy Corporation of North America · 2 days ago
Quality Control Technician Lead - Level 5
Panasonic Energy Corporation of North America is expanding its operations to De Soto, Kansas, to build the world’s largest lithium-ion battery factory. The Quality Control Technician Lead - Level 5 will support day-to-day quality operations in a high-volume manufacturing environment, ensuring product compliance and driving process improvements through collaboration with cross-functional teams.
Information Technology & Services
Responsibilities
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
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
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
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
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
Qualification
Required
High school diploma, GED, or 2 years of prior experience in functional area
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
Associate or Bachelor's degree in a technical field (e.g., Engineering, Quality, Industrial Technology)
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)
Certified Quality Technician (CQT)
Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or higher)
Benefits
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.
Employee Recognition Program - High5 employee recognition and awards platform, quarterly and annual employee recognition
Company
Panasonic Energy Corporation of North America
Panasonic Energy Corporation of North America (PECNA) is a large-scale, advanced battery manufacturer, operating in Sparks, Nevada and De Soto, Kansas, known for its quality of life and expansive outdoor adventures.