Dock Operator Lead - Level 4

Panasonic Corporation of North America•De Soto, KS

45d•Onsite

About The Position

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. Join us and make a meaningful impact on the future of energy and transportation. Job Summary: The Dock Operator Lead - Level 4 is responsible for overseeing daily dock activities and ensuring efficient material handling operations. This role works closely with the Dock Supervisor to meet operational goals while maintaining high standards for safety, quality, and compliance. The Dock Operator Lead manages equipment, documentation, and dock personnel while troubleshooting issues and resolving operational discrepancies. As a frontline leader, they drive continuous improvement and effective communication across internal teams and external partners to optimize dock performance.

Requirements

High School Diploma, GED, or 2 years of prior experience in a functional area
3+ years of experience in a manufacturing or warehouse environment with forklift experience
Proven leadership, team motivation, and conflict resolution skills
Familiarity with Lean principles, 6S methodology, and change management
Proficient in Microsoft Office and department-specific systems
Strong math skills and attention to detail for inventory accuracy
Experience with RF scanners, WMS, and shipping/receiving systems
Knowledge of CTPAT, FTZ standards, and international shipping
Must have working-level knowledge of the English language, including reading, writing, and speaking English
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)

Nice To Haves

Associate's degree in relevant field
6+ years in a high-volume manufacturing or warehouse environment
Prior experience as a Shift Lead, Team Lead, or similar role
Experience with MES, SCADA, SAP, and data visualization tools
Knowledge of Standard Work, Job Instruction, and continuous improvement practices
Ability to operate or learn high-quality material handling equipment
OSHA Forklift Certification
Material Handling Equipment (MHE) Certification

Responsibilities

Operate and maintain tools, equipment, and systems within functional area
Coordinate receipt, storage, movement, and shipment of goods to ensure efficient dock operations
Monitor daily shipping and receiving schedules to maintain on-time workflow
Approve and manage inbound/outbound appointments, including international shipments
Ensure accurate material presentation for production and compliance with FIFO standards
Address delivery issues and ensure compliance with CTPAT and safety standards
Ability to work all scheduled shift hours
Monitor KPIs and suggest operational improvements to increase efficiency and accuracy
Identify and implement small-scale process enhancements that support lean initiatives, 6S practices, and cost control strategies
Assist with audits and participate in cross-functional improvement projects
Foster a collaborative and safe team environment, promoting accountability and adherence to standards
Ability to train others at same or lower level within functional area
No authority to hire, transfer, suspend, lay off, recall, promote, discharge, reward, or discipline other employees
Communicate effectively with internal departments and external partners to support workflow and shipping requirements
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify and resolve issues in a timely manner
Participate in meetings and provide dock status updates to supervisors and cross-functional stakeholders as needed
Assist with inventory counts and ensure accurate documentation of shipments and receipts
Validate and record materials accurately using barcode scanners, RFID, Automated Warehouses, or manual entry methods
Maintain updated inventory records, proper storage practices, and support audit readiness through accurate documentation

Benefits

Highly inclusive and class-leading healthcare options to include family planning, mental health, and pet insurance
Employee assistance programs that support total well-being with complimentary session offered each and every month
Company-matched and fully vested 401K retirement program that starts immediately from date of enrollment
Annual bonus program, High5 employee recognition and awards platform, quarterly and annual employee recognition
Simplified access to self-guided and representative-supported short and long-term financial wellness and retirement planning
Educational Assistance & Reimbursement Program
Inclusion programs and associated employee resource groups that promote representation and belonging
Leadership, career, and mentorship development programs opportunities at all levels across the organization
Collaborative and motivating culture routed in continuous personal and professional growth and much more.

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