Skilled Machine Technician – Level 2

Panasonic•De Soto, KS

6d•Onsite

About The Position

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. Position Summary: The Skilled Machine Technician – Level 2 (SMT–2) is responsible for operating automated high-speed lithium-ion battery production machines in controlled clean-room environments. Responsibilities include machine maintenance, ensuring the cleanliness of work areas, and facilitating the safe and efficient production of high-quality batteries. Additionally, the SMT-2 performs basic equipment cleaning and maintenance procedures.

Requirements

Required: High School Diploma, General Education Development (GED), or 2 years of prior experience in functional area
1.5 years of prior experience in functional area
Proficient in the English language, encompassing adeptness in reading, writing, and verbal communication.
Prior experience in a manufacturing/production environment

Nice To Haves

2+ years of prior experience in functional area
Successful completion of Standard Work and Job Instruction training
An understanding of Kaizen and active participation in Standard Work Improvement activities
Experience utilizing hand tools, following technical instructions, and conducting quality control procedures

Responsibilities

Initiate, operate, recover, and shut down production machines according to defined procedures.
Independently operate multiple machines within assigned production areas with minimal supervision.
Operate and maintain all tools and equipment within the functional area to ensure consistent output.
Ensure compliance with and proper implementation of work instructions and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Support timely delivery of materials, supplies, and spare parts to maintain production flow.
Diagnose and troubleshoot machine errors following established escalation procedures.
Conduct intermediate preventive maintenance, including spare part changes, bearing inspections, and spindle/jig adjustments.
Utilize hand tools and precision measuring instruments to perform maintenance and calibration tasks.
Identify and communicate opportunities to improve machine reliability and process efficiency.
Train peers at the same or lower level on machine operations, quality checks, and safety procedures.
Facilitate knowledge transfer through peer-to-peer coaching and on-the-job instruction.
Support cross-training initiatives to build departmental versatility and coverage.
Collaborate with Production, Engineering, and Maintenance teams to resolve machine or quality-related issues.
Communicate promptly with Supervisors and Engineers to report process deviations, equipment issues, or quality concerns.
Maintain effective communication across shifts to ensure continuity of operations.
Perform visual quality checks and process monitoring to meet acceptance and compliance standards.
Maintain detailed inspection, deviation, and maintenance records within quality systems.
Uphold adherence to all plant policies, quality systems, and PECNA operational standards.
Maintain a clean, organized, and secure work area in alignment with 6S principles.
Follow all PPE requirements and physical safety protocols to ensure a safe working environment.
Maintain flexibility to work all scheduled shifts as business needs require.

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
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.