Director of Advanced Manufacturing

X-Bow Launch Systems Inc.; Magna (UT); Remote; USD 170,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

X-Bow Launch Systems Inc. seeks a Director of Advanced Manufacturing to lead the drive toward automated, scalable production. You will shape the strategy, oversee automation tech selection, and champion data-driven continuous improvement across manufacturing operations.

The role demands a track record launching and operating automated facilities, expertise in robotics, PLCs, MES/ERP, and cybersecure OT environments. Remote work with required on-site visits to Luling, TX is expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field; Master's preferred.
• 10+ years in advanced manufacturing with 5+ in leadership.
• Proven experience launching and operating automated facilities.
• Strong knowledge of robotics, machine vision, and PLCs.
• Experience with MES, ERP, and real-time data analytics.
• Excellent project management and leadership skills.
• Strong safety and regulatory compliance understanding.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the advanced manufacturing strategy aligned with goals.
• Lead transformation toward lights-out manufacturing with minimal human intervention.
• Oversee selection, installation, and integration of automation tech (PLCs, robotics, vision).
• Manage MES and ERP integration and real-time production data systems.
• Design reliable processes with defined operating limits and maintenance programs.
• Lead cross-functional teams in commissioning, validation, and ramp-up.
• Manage budgets, timelines, and vendor relationships for projects.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards; implement OT cybersecurity measures.
• Utilize OEE, downtime and quality data for continuous improvement.
• Mentor manufacturing engineers and foster innovation and collaboration.

Skills

Advanced manufacturing leadership

Program management

Industrial automation

Robotics

Machine vision

PLCs

MES / ERP systems

Real-time data analytics

Safety & regulatory compliance

Digital twin / APC

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

MES

ERP systems

Real-time data analytics

Job description

Job Title: Director of Advanced Manufacturing

Location: Remote (with required on-site visits to Luling, Texas)

Position Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Director of Advanced Manufacturing to lead our efforts in implementing and scaling "lights-out" manufacturing processes. The ideal candidate will have a robust background in industrial automation, manufacturing systems, and process engineering, with a proven track record of launching and operating automated facilities.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and execute the advanced manufacturing strategy aligned with company goals.
• Lead the transformation towards "lights-out" manufacturing, ensuring minimal human intervention in production processes.

Technology Implementation

• Oversee the selection, installation, and integration of advanced manufacturing technologies, including PLCs, robotics, machine vision, and industrial networks.
• Manage MES, ERP integration, and real-time production data systems.

Process Optimization

• Design and improve reliable, repeatable manufacturing processes with clearly defined operating limits.
• Implement predictive and preventive maintenance programs to ensure equipment reliability.

Project Management

• Lead cross-functional teams in the commissioning, validation, and ramp-up of new manufacturing processes and technologies.
• Manage budgets, timelines, and vendor relationships for manufacturing projects.

Safety and Compliance

• Ensure all manufacturing processes comply with safety and regulatory standards.
• Implement industrial cybersecurity measures to protect OT networks and automated systems.

Data Analytics

• Utilize OEE, downtime analysis, and quality monitoring to drive continuous improvement.
• Implement computer vision and other data analytics tools for real-time defect detection and process optimization.

Team Leadership

• Mentor and develop a team of manufacturing engineers and automation specialists.
• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence in manufacturing operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in advanced manufacturing, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Proven experience in launching and operating automated manufacturing facilities.
• Strong knowledge of industrial automation technologies, including robotics, machine vision, and PLCs.
• Experience with MES, ERP systems, and real-time data analytics.
• Excellent project management and leadership skills.
• Strong understanding of safety and regulatory compliance in manufacturing environments.

Preferred Experience

• Experience in high-hazard manufacturing environments (aerospace, defense, chemicals).
• Familiarity with digital twin simulation, generative design, and advanced process control (APC).