Equipment Specialist I (Manufacturing)

Location: Onsite in De Soto, Kansas, United States. Valid authorization to work in the U.S. without restriction is required.

Company

Panasonic Energy is expanding a lithium-ion battery manufacturing facility focused on sustainable energy solutions and electric vehicles.

What you will do

• Troubleshoot, repair, maintain, and recover manufacturing equipment under established procedures.
• Inspect equipment, install improvement parts, perform measurements, and support machine modifications and startup activities.
• Identify routine mechanical issues involving sensors, bearings, gearboxes, linear guides, conveyors, and related components.
• Analyze equipment and process performance data using Excel, charts, and graphs.
• Participate in PDCA problem solving, root-cause investigations, and corrective and preventive actions.
• Collaborate with production, maintenance, engineering, and quality teams while documenting repairs and equipment status.

Requirements

• High school diploma, GED, three years of technical or apprenticeship training, or equivalent hands-on mechanical experience.
• At least two years of manufacturing, industrial maintenance, equipment support, automation, mechatronics, or related technical experience, or qualifying apprenticeship experience.
• Working knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems, hydraulics, and pneumatic equipment.
• Ability to troubleshoot equipment, interpret technical documents, collect performance data, and perform basic mathematical calculations.
• Computer proficiency with Microsoft Office, manufacturing execution systems, and production support software.
• Working-level English reading, writing, and speaking skills and unrestricted U.S. work authorization are required.

Nice to have

• Associate’s degree in electronic technology, mechatronics, industrial maintenance, manufacturing technology, or a related field.
• PLC training or certification and experience with automation, machine controls, or vision systems.
• Experience with mechanical or electrical drawings, MES, Tableau, Excel data analysis, Python, JMP, Lean Manufacturing, PDCA, or Six Sigma.
• Experience with welding, fabrication, machining, or equipment repair.

Culture & Benefits

• Onsite work in a new lithium-ion battery manufacturing facility.
• Technical training, cross-training, mentorship, leadership development, and career growth opportunities.
• Healthcare options including family planning, mental health, and pet insurance.
• Company-matched, fully vested 401(k), annual bonus program, and financial wellness support.
• Educational assistance, employee recognition programs, inclusion programs, and employee resource groups.
• PPE, respirator fit testing, pre-employment drug testing, and strict safety and lockout/tagout procedures are required.