Quality Laboratory Technician - Level 5

Overview

Do you want to join a team that's changing the world? Do you have a strong background as a Quality Laboratory Technician - 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

Summary: We are proud to announce the establishment of a state-of-the-art Li-ion battery factory, set amidst the beautiful Kansas City Metro. This groundbreaking green-field factory will serve as a pioneering hub for innovation in sustainable energy solutions.

If you are passionate about contributing to a sustainable future and being part of a dynamic team shaping the electric vehicle revolution, this opportunity is tailor-made for you. We are seeking dedicated individuals to join us as full-time, on-site team members at our new, state-of-the-art factory located in the thriving city of DeSoto, Kansas.

Job Summary: The Quality Laboratory Technician - Level 5 is responsible for performing advanced testing, inspections, and data analysis to ensure products meet internal and customer quality standards. This position supports quality assurance by operating sophisticated lab instruments, interpreting complex data, and identifying defects or process deviations. The Technician collaborates with cross-functional teams to resolve issues, supports quality improvement initiatives, and ensures compliance with regulatory and safety standards. Additionally, this role provides training and mentorship to junior team members while maintaining a high level of independence and technical expertise.

Essential Duties:

Laboratory Operations & Equipment Management

• Operate and maintain advanced lab instruments (e.g., X-ray particle analyzer, CT scanner, GC-MS, SEM)
• Prepare and inspect samples per SOPs; identify contaminants using various analytical techniques
• Perform equipment calibration, routine maintenance, and ensure proper tool functionality
• Follow sample handling, labeling, and storage procedures
• Maintain area cleanliness and comply with 6S and safety standards

Data Analysis & Reporting

• Interpret complex data tied to Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
• Maintain detailed records of methods, results, and observations
• Use scripts or visualization tools to drive containment and defect analysis
• Report quality issues or deviations to supervisors and engineers promptly

Quality Systems & Compliance

• Support proper implementation of quality control processes and procedures to ensure compliance with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and customer specifications
• Assist in internal audits and ensure adherence to plant and PECNA policies
• Lead or contribute to quality improvement projects focused on product and process enhancements.

Problem Solving & Communication

• Troubleshoot lab issues and assist others in root cause analysis and resolution
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, engineering, and maintenance, to identify and resolve quality issues in a timely manner
• Operate independently without written SOPs when necessary; make sound data-based decisions
• Communicate results and technical concepts effectively to various organizational levels

Team Support

• Train others at the same or lower level within functional area
• Ensure team readiness through the ability to work all scheduled shifts, covering others as needed
• Meet physical demands of the role and maintain PPE compliance
• No authority to hire, transfer, suspend, lay off, recall, promote, discharge, reward, or discipline other employees

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.

The foregoing description is not intended and should not be construed to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills and efforts or work conditions associated with the job. It is intended to be an accurate reflection of the general nature and level of the job.

Qualifications: Requirements - Required and/or Preferred

Education

• Required: High school diploma, GED, or 2 years of prior experience in functional area
• Preferred: Associate's degree or technical certification in chemistry, materials science, or a related field

Essential Qualifications

• Minimum of 6 years of relevant laboratory or quality experience
• Proficient in documenting test results and maintaining accurate records per SOPs and regulatory standards
• Strong understanding of lab safety, 6S practices, quality control, and basic engineering principles
• Skilled in interpreting complex data, conducting root cause analysis, and applying basic statistical methods
• Experience with metrology tools, measurement techniques, and inspection processes
• Familiar with quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001, IATF 16949) and regulatory standards (e.g., UL, CE, RoHS)
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint) and capable of clear verbal and written communication across organizational levels
• Able to work independently, troubleshoot issues, and make sound, data-driven decisions
• Must have working-level knowledge of the English language, including reading, writing, and speaking English

Preferred Qualifications:

• 8+ years of relevant laboratory, quality, or manufacturing experience
• Experience in lithium-ion battery or advanced manufacturing environments
• Background in continuous improvement initiatives or quality improvement projects
• Proficiency in data analysis or dashboard tools (e.g., Power BI, Foundry, Tableau)
• Experience mentoring or training team members
• Working knowledge of statistical process control (SPC) and quality metrics (e.g., Cp, Cpk, Pp, Ppk)
• Familiarity with quality audits and compliance with ISO and regulatory standards
• Exhibit PECNA High-Performance Culture (HPC) principles
• 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 License(s):

• None

Preferred Certification(s):

• Six Sigma Green Belt

Physical Demands

Physical Activities: Percentage of time (equaling 100%) during the normal workday the employee is required to:

• Sit: 20%
• Walk: 40%
• Stand: 30%
• 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

About Us: At the heart of this visionary project, Panasonic is committed to manufacturing cutting-edge cylindrical lithium-ion cells that will power the future of electric mobility. These cells will be meticulously crafted to meet the growing demands of the automotive industry, supporting various electric vehicle manufacturers in their quest for eco-friendly transportation solutions.

This role presents a unique chance to be at the forefront of innovation, working within a forward-thinking organization that is committed to environmental responsibility and the advancement of green technology. Be a part of our mission to power the future and make a difference in the world of electric mobility with Panasonic!

Supplemental Information: Pre-employment drug testing is required. 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.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to characteristics protected by law.

Thank you for your interest in Panasonic Energy Corporation of North America.

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