Quality Control Inspector - Level 1

Panasonic • De Soto, KS

8h • 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 Quality Control Inspector – Level 1 performs basic inspection tasks to support product quality in a high-volume lithium-ion battery manufacturing environment. Reporting to the Quality Supervisor, this role follows established procedures to check products for defects and ensure they meet specifications. The inspector works closely with production teams to help maintain compliance with quality standards. This is an entry-level position focused on learning and applying core inspection techniques while contributing to overall quality goals.

Requirements

• High school diploma, GED, or 2 years of prior experience in functional area
• Basic understanding of quality control and inspection procedures
• Familiarity with common measurement tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers, gauges)
• Ability to read and follow simple technical documents and work instructions
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to recognize defects
• Safety-conscious attitude and ability to follow PPE and safety requirements
• Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively in a team environment
• Willingness to learn, accept feedback, and follow guidance from others
• Ability to meet physical job requirements
• Willingness to work assigned shifts and follow all safety protocols
• 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

• Six Sigma Yellow Belt (or equivalent)
• OSHA 10-Hour or 30-Hour General Industry Certification
• 1-2 years of experience in manufacturing or inspection roles (especially in battery, automotive, or electronics industries)
• Exposure to ISO 9001 or other quality management systems
• Basic knowledge of Statistical Process Control (SPC) or root cause analysis
• Familiarity with MES or ERP systems

Responsibilities

• Perform visual and manual inspections following Control Plans and SOPs
• Use basic inspection tools (e.g., gauges, calipers) to verify product conformity
• Operate inspection tools and equipment correctly and safely within functional area
• Perform tasks independently within established procedures
• Communicate inspection results clearly and promptly to team members
• Support identification and timely resolution of quality issues
• Follow guidance from senior inspectors and supervisors to resolve issues
• Assist in training and supporting other entry-level team members within the functional area
• Participate in on-the-job training to build inspection skills
• Assist with onboarding and basic training of entry-level inspectors
• Remain open to feedback and demonstrate willingness to learn
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, engineering, and maintenance, to identify and support the resolution of quality issues in a timely manner
• Support proper implementation of processes and procedures
• Maintain adherence to all quality, general plant, and company policies and procedures
• Uphold 6S initiatives and ensure area cleanliness is maintained to safety and operational standards
• Ability to work all scheduled shift hours

Benefits

• Health Benefits – Offering medical, dental, vision, prescription plans, plus Health Savings Account and Flexible Spending Account options.
• Voluntary Benefits – Life, accident, critical illness, disability, legal, identity theft, and pet insurance.
• Panasonic Retirement Savings & Investment Plan (PRSIP) – 401(k) plan with company matching contributions and immediate vesting.
• Paid Time-Off Benefits – Vacation, holidays, personal days, sick leave, volunteer, and parental & caregiver leave.
• Educational Assistance – Tuition reimbursement for job-related courses after six months of service.
• Health Management and Wellbeing Programs –Lifestyle Spending Account, EAP, virtual health management, chronic condition, neurodiversity, tobacco cessation, substance abuse support, and life stage and fertility resources. Available to eligible employees starting the first day of the month following your start date. Eligibility for each benefit may vary based on employment status, location, and length of service.
• Employee Recognition Program - High5 employee recognition and awards platform, quarterly and annual employee recognition
• Annual Bonus Program - Opportunity for an annual performance-based bonus.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees