Quality Control Technician - Level 4 -Shift; Sun, Mon, Tue, alternating Wed

Overview

We are looking for a Quality Control Technician – Level 4 to join Panasonic Energy’s new lithium‑ion battery manufacturing facility in De Soto, Kansas. This position offers an opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge battery technology and electric vehicle sustainability.

Summary: Build and maintain high‑quality processes at a high‑volume manufacturing environment. Support product and process compliance through inspections, audits, and continuous improvement.

Job Summary: The Technician performs advanced quality analysis, process validation, and problem‑solving to ensure product and process compliance. Responsibilities include managing nonconformances, root cause analysis, and effective corrective actions. The role extends across functional areas and contributes to the improvement of quality systems.

Essential Duties — Functional Operations:

• Perform inspections, testing, and verification across products and processes.
• Manage complex nonconformance activities, including evaluation, containment coordination, and disposition support.
• Conduct detailed failure analysis and defect characterization.
• Execute product and process audits with minimal supervision.
• Validate inspection methods, test procedures, and measurement systems (e.g., support MSA activities).
• Support new product introduction, process changes, and equipment qualifications from a quality perspective.
• Ensure accuracy, completeness, and traceability of quality records and documentation.
• Operate and maintain tools and equipment within the functional area.

Performance Optimization & Continuous Improvement:

• Perform advanced data analysis using statistical methods to assess process capability.
• Drive root cause analysis for complex or recurring issues using structured methodologies.
• Execute and follow through with CAPA, including effectiveness verification.
• Identify systemic issues and implement sustainable process improvements.
• Support development and refinement of control plans, process controls, and quality standards.
• Contribute to process validation activities and continuous improvement initiatives.

Training & Team Support:

• Train and mentor Quality Technicians and Inspectors across multiple levels.
• Serve as a technical resource for quality standards, data analysis, and problem-solving methodologies.
• Provide guidance to Operations and Engineering on quality requirements and best practices.
• Support development and standardization of training materials, SOPs, and control plans.
• Identify skill gaps and recommend workforce development.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration & Communication:

• Partner closely with Operations, Engineering, and Maintenance to resolve complex quality and process issues.
• Provide data‑driven insights and recommendations to support decision‑making.
• Drive implementation of process improvements, equipment changes, and design updates.
• Escalate high‑risk or systemic quality concerns with clear analysis and proposed solutions.
• Contribute to cross‑functional initiatives involving process optimization and quality performance.

Quality, Safety, & Compliance:

• Ensure adherence to quality management systems such as ISO 9001 and IATF 16949.
• Support internal and external audits, including preparation and response activities.
• Maintain and review quality documentation to ensure audit readiness.
• Support continuous improvement of quality procedures and systems.
• Uphold 6S standards, maintain a clean, safe environment, and follow all safety protocols and PPE requirements.
• Ability to work all scheduled shift hours.

Required:

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

Preferred:

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Quality, Manufacturing, Engineering, or related field.
• Certified Quality Technician (CQT).
• Six Sigma Green Belt or higher.
• OSHA General Industry Certification (10‑ or 30‑hour).

• 3+ years of related work experience in quality inspection or control.
• Strong understanding of quality systems, manufacturing processes, and inspection methodologies.
• Proficiency with measurement tools and inspection equipment.
• Experience managing nonconformances and supporting resolution…