Quality Control Inspector - Level 1 Nights D-Shift (Thu, Fri, Sat, alternating Wed)

Quality Control Inspector Level 1

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.

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.

Essential Duties:

• Functional Operations: 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
• Performance Optimization & Continuous Improvement: 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
• Training & Team Support: 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
• Cross-Functional Collaboration & Communication: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, engineering, and maintenance, to identify and support the resolution of quality issues in a timely manner
• Quality, Safety, & Compliance: 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
• Supervisory Responsibilities: None
• Travel Requirement: None

Education, Certifications, and Licenses:

• Required: High school diploma, GED, or 2 years of prior experience in functional area
• Preferred: Six Sigma Yellow Belt (or equivalent) OSHA 10-Hour or 30-Hour General Industry Certification

Essential Qualifications:

• 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)

Preferred Qualifications:

• 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

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements:

To ensure health and safety in the workplace and for employee protection, 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.

Physical Demands:

• Sit: 10%
• Walk: 30%
• Stand: 60%
• Required Lifting and Carrying: Up to 10 lbs.: Frequent Up to 20 lbs.: Frequent Up to 35 lbs.: Occasional Team-lift only (over 35 lbs.): Rare

In addition, employees are expected to participate in cross-training and may be assigned responsibilities in other areas as business needs evolve.