Manufacturing Associate-Production Control at Soode Kansas Corporation – De Soto, Kansas

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 within Gigafactory of Panasonic Energy of North America Inc at DeSoto, Kansas.

We are Soode Kansas Corporation, fully owned by Alconix Corporation (https://www.alconix.com/en/) which is listed in Tokyo Stock Exchange Prime Market.

We are going to manufacture/supply top cap parts of lithium-ion battery cells to Panasonic Energy.

We are looking for people who can enjoy the new challenge, not afraid of new things, and are flexible about unexpected happenings in a start-up environment.

Summary

The Manufacturing Associate – Product Control role is responsible for inventory and production control, material handling, and shipping operations, with additional responsibility for visual inspection of precision metal components. This position plays a critical role in ensuring accurate inventory tracking, production flow coordination, and on-time shipment execution. While not a full Quality Inspector role, it requires strong attention to detail, excellent visual acuity, and the ability to consistently identify surface defects while supporting production control activities.

Key Responsibilities

Production & Inventory Control

Maintain accurate inventory records of raw materials, work-in-process (WIP), and finished goods.

• Monitor and track production flow to ensure timely movement of materials between operations.
• Coordinate with production and operations teams to prioritize work orders and meet production schedules.
• Perform cycle counts and inventory audits, investigating and resolving discrepancies.
• Ensure proper material identification, labeling, and traceability throughout the production process.
• Update and maintain production control data in ERP systems and/or Microsoft Excel.
• Support implementation and adherence to FIFO (First-In, First-Out) and other inventory control practices.
• Assist in production planning support activities, including staging materials and tracking order status.

Material Handling & Shipping

• Unpack parts from cartons and transfer them into designated containers.
• Stack, organize, and palletize containers according to shipment requirements.
• Prepare materials for internal movement and customer shipment.
• Verify shipment quantities and documentation to ensure accuracy and traceability.
• Record shipping and handling data accurately using Microsoft Excel or internal systems.
• Coordinate with logistics or shipping personnel to ensure on-time deliveries.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area following 5S/6S principles.

Visual Inspection Responsibilities

• Perform visual inspections of small precision metal components to identify surface defects, deformation, scratches, contamination, or abnormalities.
• Conduct basic quality checks prior to packaging or shipment.
• Follow inspection criteria and work instructions provided by Quality or Operations.
• Segregate and report non-conforming material according to established procedures.
• Communicate inspection findings clearly to supervisors or quality personnel.

Equipment & Process Support

• Assist with operation and monitoring of inspection or processing equipment as assigned.
• Support packaging, labeling, and staging of finished goods.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve workflow efficiency and material flow.
• Adapt to evolving responsibilities as production, inspection, and control processes expand.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Prior experience in manufacturing, production control, inventory management, material handling, or shipping preferred but not required.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to perform consistent visual inspection tasks.
• Good vision and ability to identify small defects on metal components.
• Ability to read and follow written work instructions and production schedules.
• Basic computer skills; proficiency in Microsoft Excel and/or ERP systems preferred.
• Ability to work reliably in a fast-paced, team-oriented manufacturing environment.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Dependable attendance and strong work ethic.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand, bend, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods.
• Ability to visually inspect small parts for extended periods with sustained concentration.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Required to wear safety shoes, gloves, safety glasses, and hearing protection as designated.

Benefit Provided by the Company

• Company-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 6% 401(k) company match
• Company-paid Life and Disability Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Supplemental Information

• Pre-employment drug testing is required. All candidates must have valid authorization to work in the U.S. without restriction.

E-Verify Statement

• SOODE Kansas Corporation participates in E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. To learn more about E-Verify, please visit https://www.e-verify.gov/.

EEOC Statement

• At Soode Kansas Corporation, diversity is one of our greatest strengths. We believe that different backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives drive innovation and growth. We proudly provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and team members, and we make employment decisions based on merit, qualifications, and business needs.