Skilled Machine Technician

Panasonic • De Soto, KS

4d • 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 Skilled Machine Technician – Level 2 (SMT–2) is responsible for operating automated, high-speed lithium-ion battery production equipment within controlled clean-room environments. This role includes ensuring clean and organized work areas and supporting the safe, efficient production of high-quality batteries. The SMT-2 performs basic equipment cleaning and supports equipment readiness in alignment with production needs.

Requirements

• High school diploma, GED, or 2 years of prior experience in functional area
• 1.5 years of prior experience in functional area
• Prior experience in a manufacturing/production environment
• Safety-conscious attitude and ability to work effectively in a team environment
• 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

• OSHA 10-Hour or 30-Hour General Industry Certification
• 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 equipment in accordance with established procedures
• Independently operate multiple machines within assigned production areas with minimal supervision
• Operate tools and equipment within the functional area to ensure consistent, reliable output
• Ensure strict adherence to work instructions and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Support the timely delivery of materials, supplies, and spare parts to sustain production flow
• Identify and respond to machine issues, following established escalation procedures
• Monitor equipment performance and report abnormalities to appropriate teams
• Utilize hand tools and basic measuring instruments as needed for operational support (non-maintenance)
• Identify and communicate opportunities to enhance equipment reliability and process efficiency
• Train peers at the same or lower level on machine operations, quality checks, and safety procedures
• Promote knowledge transfer through peer coaching and hands-on instruction
• Support cross-training efforts to strengthen team versatility and operational coverage
• Collaborate with Production, Engineering, and Maintenance teams to resolve equipment and quality-related issues
• Communicate promptly with Supervisors and Engineers regarding process deviations, equipment concerns, or quality issues
• Maintain clear and effective shift-to-shift communication to ensure operational continuity
• Perform visual inspections and process monitoring to ensure compliance with quality standards
• Accurately document inspections, deviations, and production-related activities within quality systems
• Adhere to all plant policies, quality systems, and PECNA operational standards
• Maintain a clean, organized, and secure work environment in alignment with 6S principles
• Follow all PPE requirements and safety protocols to promote a safe workplace
• Remain flexible to work all assigned shifts based on business needs

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 that is rooted in continuous personal and professional growth and much more.

What This Job Offers

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