Quality Control Technician Lead - Level 5

Panasonic • De Soto, KS

6h • Onsite

About The Position

The Quality Control Technician Lead – Level 5 serves as the primary technical authority for quality processes within a high-volume lithium-ion battery manufacturing environment. Working independently, this role owns process-level quality performance, including oversight of nonconformance management, advanced data analysis, and sustained process improvement. The technician applies deep expertise to identify systemic issues, implement robust solutions, and ensure alignment with internal standards and customer requirements. This position drives consistency across functional areas and provides technical direction, mentorship, and guidance to support overall quality performance.

Requirements

• High school diploma, GED, or 2 years of prior experience in functional area
• 4+ years of experience in quality assurance, quality control, or manufacturing inspection
• Deep understanding of quality systems, manufacturing processes, and inspection methodologies
• Strong experience managing complex nonconformances and driving resolution of systemic quality issues
• Demonstrated ability to apply advanced root cause analysis and problem-solving methodologies
• Advanced knowledge of statistical process control (SPC) and process capability analysis (Cp/Cpk)
• Proficiency with advanced quality tools (e.g., PFMEA, Control Plans, MSA, PPAP)
• Experience developing or improving quality systems, standards, or procedures
• Strong analytical and decision-making skills with the ability to influence outcomes across teams
• Ability to work independently with a high level of ownership and accountability
• Effective communication and collaboration skills across all organizational levels
• Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, MES, data visualization platforms)
• Safety-conscious mindset with adherence to all safety requirements
• Ability to meet physical job requirements
• 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)
• Wearing PPE is required 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.

Nice To Haves

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Quality, Manufacturing, Engineering, or related field
• Certified Quality Technician (CQT) or Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)
• Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt
• OSHA 10- or 30-Hour General Industry Certification
• 8+ years of experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment (battery, automotive, or electronics preferred)
• 3-5 years of experience in quality assurance roles with a strong focus on corrective and containment actions
• Progression from a Level 4 Quality Technician role or equivalent experience
• Experience developing data visualization tools, dashboards, or automated monitoring systems (e.g., Power BI, Tableau)
• Familiarity with scripting or automation tools (e.g., Python) for data analysis or process monitoring
• Experience supporting customer quality requirements and audits
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel (advanced data analysis, reporting, modeling)
• Experience driving plant-level or cross-functional continuous improvement initiatives

Responsibilities

• Ensure consistent application and execution of quality standards and requirements across products and processes
• Own evaluation and disposition processes for complex nonconformances, including coordination of containment and resolution activities
• Perform and oversee product and process audits to ensure compliance and effectiveness of quality controls
• Provide direction on inspection methods, testing strategies, and measurement system application
• Support new product introduction (NPI), process changes, and equipment qualifications with quality requirements and risk assessment
• Ensure accuracy, consistency, and traceability of quality records and documentation
• Operate and maintain tools and equipment within the functional area
• Own analysis of quality performance using advanced statistical methods (e.g., SPC, Cp/Cpk, trend analysis) to monitor and improve process capability
• Drive resolution of complex or systemic quality issues using structured problem-solving methodologies (e.g., 5 Whys, Fishbone, DMAIC)
• Own corrective and preventive action (CAPA) processes, including effectiveness and standardization
• Identify gaps in process controls and implement standardized improvements across functional areas
• Develop and maintain data monitoring systems, including dashboards, alarms, or automated tools to proactively detect quality risks
• Contribute to development and standardization of quality systems, control plans, and procedures
• Provide technical mentorship and guidance to Quality Technicians and Inspectors across multiple levels
• Serve as a primary resource for advanced quality tools, data analysis, and problem-solving methodologies
• Support development and standardization of training programs, materials, and qualification processes
• Provide direction to cross-functional teams on quality standards, requirements, and best practices
• Identify organizational capability gaps and recommend development strategies
• Partner with Operations, Engineering, and Maintenance to align and address systemic quality challenges and improve process performance
• Influence decision-making through clear communication of data insights, risks, and recommendations
• Facilitate alignment of quality standards and practices across functional areas
• Escalate critical risks or systemic issues with well-supported analysis and proposed solutions
• Present quality performance, trends, and improvement initiatives to leadership and cross-functional stakeholders
• Ensure consistent application and adherence to quality management systems across functional areas
• Play a key role in internal and external audits, including preparation, execution, and response coordination
• Ensure quality processes, documentation, and records meet audit and regulatory expectations
• Drive standardization and continuous improvement of quality procedures and systems
• Uphold 6S standards and maintain a safe, clean, and organized work environment
• Follow all safety protocols and PPE requirements during all activities
• Ability to work all scheduled shift hours

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 rooted in continuous personal and professional growth

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED