Manufacturing Engineering Manager

X-Bow Launch Systems Inc.; Luling (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

X-Bow Systems in Luling, Texas, seeks a Manufacturing Engineering Manager to lead and scale the manufacturing engineering organization, ensuring disciplined execution from concept to production. You will guide technical programs across assembly, propulsion, energetics, and advanced manufacturing while partnering with Operations to deliver reliable, compliant hardware.

The role requires 10+ years in engineering leadership within aerospace/defense or related fields, with a strong background in

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive leadership in aerospace/defense or robotics.
• Experience leading manufacturing programs for launch vehicles, rocket motors, or advanced systems.
• Strong background in manufacturing infrastructure development and process improvement.

Responsibilities

• Lead and scale the production manufacturing engineering organization (assembly, propulsion, energetics, advanced manufacturing, mechanical/robotic systems).
• Develop and execute technical strategies to support growth, program delivery, and operational excellence.
• Mentor high-performance manufacturing engineering teams from startup to large-scale operations.
• Oversee complex manufacturing technology programs including solid rocket motor manufacturing and launch vehicle production.
• Drive infrastructure modernization including digital engineering, collaboration tools, and facility development.
• Ensure technical rigor and rapid iteration in product development and manufacturing.
• Collaborate with operations, supply chain, and program management to deliver conforming products.
• Manage engineering budgets, schedules, and resource allocation.

Skills

Aerospace leadership

Program management

Team building

Strategic planning

Communication

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical/Aeronautical/Industrial Engineering

Tools

Manufacturing automation

Digital engineering platforms

Lean Six Sigma

Job description

Job Title: Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Location: Luling, Texas

Reports To: Director of SRM Production and Operations

FLSA Status: Exempt

About X-Bow Systems: X-Bow Systems is a rapidly growing leader in defense technology, specializing in energetic material chemistry, solid rocket motor design and manufacturing, and sub-orbital launch vehicles. We are committed to technical excellence, innovation, and scaling high-performance engineering teams to deliver breakthrough solutions for government and commercial customers.

Position Summary: The Manufacturing Engineering Manager will lead and scale X-Bow's manufacturing engineering organization, overseeing all technical programs, infrastructure, and team development. This leader will be responsible for executing complex manufacturing technology programs, building a high-performance team, and turning innovative concepts into operational manufacturing systems. The Manager will work closely with the Director of SRM Production and Operations to ensure disciplined engineering execution, technical rigor, and rapid innovation across the Luling site.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead, manage, and scale the production manufacturing engineering organization (assembly, propulsion, energetics, advanced manufacturing, mechanical/robotic systems).
• Develop and execute technical strategies to support company growth, program delivery, and operational excellence.
• Build and mentor high-performance manufacturing engineering teams, from startup phase to large-scale operations.
• Oversee the execution of complex manufacturing technology programs, including solid rocket motor manufacturing, launch vehicle production, and advanced energy systems fabrication.
• Drive manufacturing engineering infrastructure modernization, including digital engineering, collaboration tools, and facility development.
• Ensure technical rigor, process discipline, and rapid iteration in product development and manufacturing.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (operations, supply chain, program management) to deliver reliable, conforming products.
• Manage engineering budgets, schedules, and resource allocation to meet business objectives.
• Lead design reviews, test planning, and engineering governance for mission-critical hardware and systems.
• Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Represent X-Bow Systems in customer, partner, and industry engagements.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical, Aeronautical, Industrial, or related Engineering discipline.
• 10+ years of progressive engineering leadership experience in aerospace, defense, advanced energy, or robotics.
• Technical expertise in manufacturing processes, automation, advanced energy systems, and mechanical/robotic systems.
• Experience leading successful manufacturing programs for launch vehicles, rocket motors, or advanced systems.
• Strong background in manufacturing engineering infrastructure development, digital engineering, and process improvement.
• Demonstrated ability to execute complex manufacturing technology programs and deliver operational systems.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and team-building skills.
• Experience with government contracts, DoD programs, and industry standards.
• Ability to work onsite in Texas and travel as needed.