Machine Operator

Job Description

Panasonic Energy is seeking a full‑time, on‑site Machine Operator for its new lithium‑ion battery production facility in De Soto, Kansas.

Responsible for operating automated high‑speed lithium‑ion battery production machines in a clean‑room environment. Tasks include machine maintenance, ensuring work‑area cleanliness, and supporting safe, efficient production of high‑quality batteries.

• A‑Shift: 6:30 am – 7:15 pm or 6:45 am – 7:30 pm (Sun, Mon, Tues, alternating Wed)
• B‑Shift: 6:30 pm – 7:15 am or 6:45 pm – 7:30 am (Sun, Mon, Tues, alternating Wed)
• C‑Shift: 6:30 am – 7:15 pm or 6:45 am – 7:30 pm (alternating Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat)
• D‑Shift: 6:30 pm – 7:15 am or 6:45 pm – 7:30 am (alternating Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat)

• Initiate, operate, recover, and shut down machines
• Diagnose and troubleshoot machine errors following escalation procedures
• Use hand tools and precision instruments for basic maintenance and quality control
• Adhere strictly to safety policies and procedures
• Maintain a clean, secure work area using 6S principles
• Understand department workflows and processes
• Ensure timely delivery of materials, supplies, and spare parts to production
• Assist Maintenance Technicians with preventative maintenance
• Monitor processes, conduct visual inspections, and uphold acceptance standards
• Execute work instructions and SOPs
• Complete end‑of‑day reporting and documentation
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to resolve quality issues
• Report quality issues and deviations to Supervisors and Engineers promptly
• Maintain detailed inspection and quality records
• Ensure adherence to quality, plant, and PECNA policies
• Train others at the same or lower level within the functional area
• Work all scheduled shifts and meet physical demands and PPE requirements
• No authority to hire, transfer, suspend, lay off, recall, promote, discharge, reward, or discipline other employees

• Full Tyvek suit, safety shoes, gloves, safety glasses, face mask, and full hazmat suit with respirator (fit test required)

• Required: High school diploma, GED, or 2 years of prior experience in a functional area

• Proficient English (reading, writing, speaking)
• Experience in warehouse, manufacturing, automation, or assembly preferred
• Ability to analyze workload and multitask
• Basic arithmetic (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) in all units of measure
• Knowledge of Metric and Standard measurement systems
• Basic MS Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook) skills preferred

• 1–2 years of prior functional experience
• Completion of Standard Work and Job Instruction training, familiarity with Kaizen and参与 in improvement activities
• Proficiency with hand tools, technical instructions, and quality control

• None

• None

• Sit: 5%
• Walk: 10%
• Stand: 75%
• Lift: 10%

Required lifting:
Up to 10 lbs Frequent;
Up to 20 lbs Frequent;
Up to 35 lbs Occasional;
Team‑lift over 35 lbs Occasional.

• Medical, dental, vision, and family planning coverage
• Mental health and pet insurance options
• Health‑benefit employee assistance programs
• 401(k) plan with company match and full vesting
• Annual bonus program and employee recognition platform
• Financial wellness and retirement planning resources
• Educational assistance and tuition reimbursement
• Employee resource groups and inclusion programs
• Leadership, career, and mentorship development initiatives
• Regular employee events and a collaborative culture

Pre‑employment drug testing is required.

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 characteristic protected by law. All qualified individuals are required to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

All candidates must have valid authorization to work in the U.S. without restriction.