Senior Manufacturing Engineering Leader – Rocket Propulsion

X-Bow Systems; Luling (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

X-Bow Systems, a defense technology leader in energetic material chemistry and solid rocket motor design, is seeking a Manufacturing Engineering Manager in Luling, Texas. You will scale the manufacturing engineering organization, oversee critical programs, and drive modernization across the site, partnering with operations and program management to deliver high-assurance hardware.

The role requires 10+ years in engineering leadership within aerospace/defense, strong automation and digital

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, energy, or robotics.
• Technical expertise in manufacturing processes, automation, and mechanical/robotic systems.
• Experience leading successful manufacturing programs for launch vehicles or rocket motors.

Responsibilities

• Lead and scale the manufacturing engineering organization (assembly, propulsion, energetics, advanced manufacturing).
• Develop and execute technical strategies to support growth and operations.
• Mentor high-performance manufacturing engineering teams.
• Oversee complex manufacturing technology programs including rocket motor and launch vehicle production.
• Drive modernization of manufacturing infrastructure and digital engineering tools.
• Ensure rigor, discipline, and rapid iteration in product development and manufacturing.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver compliant products.
• Manage budgets, schedules, and resources.
• Lead design reviews, test planning, and governance for hardware and systems.
• Foster innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Skills

Manufacturing leadership

Aerospace experience

Automation

Digital engineering

Program management

Education

Bachelor's in Mechanical/Aero/Industrial

Master's degree preferred

Tools

AutoCAD

MATLAB/Simulink

PLC systems

Job description

X-Bow Systems, a defense technology leader in energetic material chemistry and solid rocket motor design, is seeking a Manufacturing Engineering Manager in Luling, Texas. You will scale the manufacturing engineering organization, oversee critical programs, and drive modernization across the site, partnering with operations and program management to deliver high-assurance hardware.

The role requires 10+ years in engineering leadership within aerospace/defense, strong automation and digital