Equipment Specialist - KS

Panasonic•De Soto, KS

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Equipment Specialist supports equipment reliability, defect reduction, productivity improvement, and safe manufacturing operations at Panasonic Energy’s De Soto, Kansas lithium-ion battery factory. This entry-level technical engineering support role applies developing mechanical, troubleshooting, and data analysis skills to routine equipment repairs, recovery, inspections, and improvement activities while building expertise in manufacturing systems and processes. The specialist works with production teams, maintenance personnel, engineers, and senior specialists to investigate root causes, implement corrective actions, and support continuous improvement using methods such as PDCA. Responsibilities also include recording repair and inspection work, analyzing basic performance data, supporting equipment readiness, communicating equipment status, and following quality, environmental, and safety procedures. The role involves cross-training and may include responsibilities in other areas as business needs evolve. No supervisory duties or travel are required.

Requirements

High school diploma, GED, three years of technical or apprenticeship training, or equivalent hands-on mechanical experience.
At least 2 years of manufacturing, industrial maintenance, equipment support, automation, mechatronics, or related technical experience; alternatively, completion of the PECNA Maintenance Apprenticeship Program, or completion of the Skilled Machine Technician Apprenticeship Program plus at least 6 months as a Skilled Machine Technician.
Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and basic understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, hydraulics, and pneumatic equipment.
Successful completion of the Ramsay mechanical or electrical aptitude assessment.
Ability to troubleshoot routine equipment issues using established procedures and guidance.
Computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office, manufacturing execution systems (MES), and other production support software.
Ability to collect, organize, and interpret basic operational and equipment performance data.
Ability to read and interpret technical documents, work instructions, and standard operating procedures.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
Effective verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented manufacturing environment.
Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations, including ratios, percentages, and measurements, and interpret charts and graphs.
Working-level English proficiency, including reading, writing, and speaking.
Alignment with Panasonic’s seven core principles: contribution to society; fairness and honesty; cooperation and team spirit; untiring effort for improvement; courtesy and humility; adaptability; and gratitude.
Must wear required PPE, including a full Tyvek suit, safety shoes, gloves, safety glasses, face mask, and, where applicable, a full hazmat suit with respirator; a respirator fit test is required based on functional area.
The role requires standing 60% of the workday, walking 30%, and sitting 10%.
Lifting and carrying requirements: up to 10 lbs. and 20 lbs. continuously; up to 35 lbs. frequently; loads over 35 lbs. require team lifting and occur frequently.
Must have valid authorization to work in the United States without restriction.
Pre-employment drug testing is required.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree in Electronic Technology, Mechatronics, Industrial Maintenance, Manufacturing Technology, or a related technical field.
Completion of the PECNA Maintenance Apprenticeship Program.
PLC training or certification.
PECNA-approved technical training.
At least 4 years of industrial maintenance experience in a manufacturing environment.
Experience interpreting mechanical or electrical drawings.
Experience with MES, Tableau, or similar production data systems.
Exposure to PLCs, automation systems, machine controls, or vision systems.
Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, PDCA, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies.
Experience supporting defect reduction, equipment reliability, or productivity improvement initiatives.
Experience using Excel for basic data analysis and reporting.
Experience with welding, fabrication, machining, or equipment repair.
Exposure to Python, JMP, or other data analysis tools.

Responsibilities

Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain manufacturing equipment under established procedures and guidance from senior team members.
Develop working knowledge of assigned production equipment, machine functions, and process operations.
Perform equipment recovery and verify machine functionality after maintenance, repairs, or improvements.
Install improvement parts, take measurements, and assist with equipment modifications.
Identify and troubleshoot routine mechanical issues involving sensors, bearings, gearboxes, linear guides, conveyors, and related components.
Use precision measurement and diagnostic tools, including dial indicators, calipers, and micrometers.
Document equipment repairs, adjustments, inspections, and improvement activities accurately.
Support machine startup, qualification, and operational readiness activities.
Participate in PDCA-based problem solving and root cause investigations.
Monitor equipment and process performance data, identify abnormalities, and verify corrective-action effectiveness.
Use basic Excel functionality, charts, and graphs to analyze and communicate equipment performance trends.
Assist with corrective and preventive actions to reduce defects, alarms, downtime, and productivity losses.
Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on equipment reliability, safety, quality, and operational performance.
Escalate complex technical issues to senior specialists, engineers, or leadership.
Participate in technical training and develop expertise across equipment platforms and production processes.
Share information and lessons learned; support training, audits, and certifications as assigned.
Complete shift pass-downs and provide accurate updates on equipment status and unfinished work.
Coordinate equipment-related activities with production, maintenance, engineering, and quality teams, and communicate concerns, performance issues, and repair status to stakeholders.
Support engineering projects by collecting data, providing technical observations, and assisting with implementation.
Follow company, departmental, environmental, quality, and safety policies; maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
Comply with equipment safety requirements, lockout/tagout procedures, and safe work practices.
Identify and address equipment-related sources of defects and variation, and complete work according to established standards and documentation requirements.
Participate in cross-training and perform other-area responsibilities as business needs evolve.

Benefits

Comprehensive healthcare options, including family planning, mental health, and pet insurance.
Employee assistance programs with complimentary sessions offered each month.
Company-matched, fully vested 401(k) retirement program beginning upon enrollment.
Annual bonus program.
High5 employee recognition and awards platform, plus quarterly and annual employee recognition.
Financial wellness and retirement planning resources.
Educational Assistance & Reimbursement Program.
Inclusion programs and employee resource groups.
Leadership, career, and mentorship development programs.
Collaborative culture focused on continuous personal and professional growth.