Analytical Laboratory Supervisor

Overview

The Analytical Laboratory Supervisor is responsible for effectively leading a team of scientists and engineers by performing qualitative and quantitative analyses to support daily production activities, materials development, and critical failure analysis. Additionally, the Supervisor will apply technical knowledge to assist in developing and updating standard work instructions, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and troubleshooting guides, while leading short‑term and long‑term initiatives to meet business targets.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of highly talented and motivated scientists and engineers in a Panasonic battery laboratory facility. The duties of the team include:
  • Provide chemistry support related to daily production and materials development activities.
  • Develop new testing and evaluation methods using existing and new analytical tools.
  • Demonstrate solid troubleshooting skills and ability to quickly solve unknown problems.
  • Apply knowledge and method development to handle failure analysis and root cause issues from factories and customers.
  • Develop and maintain clear and standard work instructions, SOPs and troubleshooting guides.
  • Utilize relevant production data where needed to evaluate performance of new material suppliers.
  • Ensure safe operation of the laboratory through hierarchy of controls and continuous personnel management.
  • Develop team capabilities through training, data review discussions, technical report review, and new/novel method development.
  • Develop and execute strategies aligned with team missions and projects.
  • Lead by example with a strong work ethic and a “get the job done” approach.
  • Demonstrate excellent time and project management skills, including effectively allocating time and resources, tracking project progress, and delivering accurate results by deadlines.
  • Develop effective short‑term and long‑term plans for the team to achieve business targets.
  • Effectively communicate and collaborate with management teams, team members, and related divisions.
  • Foster a high‑performance culture through servant leadership.

PPE Requirements

• Wearing PPE may include a full Tyvek suit, safety shoes, gloves, safety glasses, face mask, bump cap, and a full hazmat suit that includes a respirator.

Qualifications

Education, Certifications, and Licenses

• Required: Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Polymer Science, or related field.
• Preferred: Master’s or PhD. in Chemistry, Material Science, or related field.

Essential Qualifications

• Minimum of 5+ years of chemistry and laboratory experience.
• Ability to follow Panasonic’s culture of full‑cycle engineering with full responsibility and accountability for projects from start to finish.
• Strong analytical and decision‑making abilities. Able to influence others toward a common goal.
• Self‑motivation and resourcefulness required.
• Able to manage multiple concurrent tasks in a fast‑paced environment, effectively prioritize work, and deliver quality results.
• Intuitive, adaptable, creative, collaborative with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Extensive chemical and/or materials science background and working knowledge of battery materials.

Preferred Qualifications

• 3+ years of leadership experience.
• Understanding of chemical analysis methods such as GC, ICP, FTIR, UV‑Vis, IC, titrations, etc.
• In‑depth knowledge of battery materials and cells, including structures, characterization, and troubleshooting.
• Background knowledge in materials characterization techniques such as XRD, DSC, TGA, X‑ray CT, PSD.
• Knowledge of polymer systems and how to characterize different systems.
• Familiarity with Six Sigma methodologies and tools.
• Strong data analysis skills with tools such as JMP, Minitab, Python, or MATLAB desired.
• Track record of managing budgets and resources to achieve results.
• Experience with battery production or R&D (or other high‑volume manufacturing fields).
• Experience working in a multi‑national company across multiple work cultures.

Physical Demands

• Sit: 30%
• Walk: 30%
• Stand: 30%
• Lift: 10%

Required Lifting and Carrying

• Up to 10 lbs.: Frequent
• Up to 20 lbs.: Frequent
• Up to 35 lbs.: Frequent
• Team‑lift only (over 35 lbs.): Frequent

Benefits & Perks

• Health Benefits – medical, dental, vision, prescription plans, HSA, FSA.
• Voluntary Benefits – life, accidental, critical illness, disability, legal, identity theft, pet insurance.
• 401(k) plan with company matching contributions and immediate vesting.
• Paid Time‑Off – vacation, holidays, personal days, sick leave, volunteer, parental & caregiver leave.
• Educational Assistance – tuition reimbursement after six months of service.
• Well‑Being Programs – lifestyle spending account, EAP, virtual health management, chronic condition, neurodiversity, tobacco cessation, substance abuse support, fertility resources.
• Employee Recognition Program – High5 platform, quarterly and annual awards.
• Annual Bonus Program – performance‑based bonus.
• On‑site Food Options – cafes, snack kitchens, vendor visits, employee events.
• Free Shuttle – rides to and from work.

Location

Panasonic Energy, De Soto, Kansas.

Pre‑employment drug testing is required.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. All qualified individuals are required to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.