Director of Programs and Engineering - X-Bow Solid Rocket Motor Division Company OverviewX-Bow Launch Systems, Inc. (pronounced "Crossbow") is a U.S. defense technology and rocket propulsion company that has developed an innovative, low-cost method to manufacture solid rocket motors. Our propulsion technology, space launch capabilities, and modular boost platforms make us unique and highly desirable aerospace supplier to the defense and national security industries. Position SummaryX-Bow is seeking an exceptional Director of Programs and Engineering to join our Defense Systems Sector. Reporting directly to the VP of Solid Rocket Motor Programs and Production, this senior leadership position will provide strategic direction and operational oversight for both program management and engineering functions. This role requires a dynamic leader capable of bridging technical excellence with program execution, managing multiple rocket motor development and production programs from initial customer interaction through final delivery while simultaneously leading engineering teams to deliver innovative solutions on accelerated timelines. Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic LeadershipProvide strategic direction and leadership for integrated program management and engineering operations across the Defense Systems SectorSupport the VP of Solid Rocket Motor Programs and Production in developing and executing organizational strategyDrive alignment between engineering capabilities and program requirements to ensure successful deliveryFoster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement across programs and engineering teamsProgram Management LeadershipDirect and oversee multiple rocket motor development and production programs simultaneouslyDevelop comprehensive program portfolios that outline goals, timelines, resources, and budget requirements across all programsEnsure programs are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget while maintaining technical excellenceServe as senior escalation point for program challenges and strategic customer engagementsLead proposal development efforts and strategic customer interactionsEngineering LeadershipProvide technical leadership and direction for SRM Engineering and SRM Mechanical Engineering teamsEnsure engineering deliverables meet rigorous design, analysis, testing, and validation requirements for solid rocket motorsDrive technical innovation in solid rocket motor design, development, and manufacturing processesBalance engineering resources across multiple programs to optimize technical outcomes and schedule performanceEstablish and maintain engineering standards, processes, and best practicesCross-Functional Team LeadershipLead and coordinate cross-functional teams across Solid Large Motor Programs, Small Motor Programs, SRM Engineering, SRM Mechanical Engineering, Business Management, and ProductionManage and develop program managers and engineering leaders within the organizationCollaborate effectively with Program Scheduling, Production Scheduling, Logistics, EHS, and Quality Management functionsBuild and maintain high-performing teams capable of executing on compressed timelinesStakeholder Communication and EngagementServe as a senior point of contact for critical program stakeholders, including executives, government representatives, and external partnersCommunicate program and engineering status, challenges, and outcomes to the VP and senior leadershipMaintain transparency and collaboration across all organizational interfacesRepresent X-Bow at customer meetings, technical reviews, and industry forumsRisk Management and Problem SolvingIdentify, analyze, and mitigate strategic and technical risks across the program portfolioResolve complex technical and programmatic issues, applying advanced problem-solving skillsProactively address challenges related to requirements, technical development, and manufacturingImplement risk mitigation strategies that protect program objectives and organizational interestsQuality Assurance and ComplianceEnsure all program and engineering activities comply with organizational standards, industry regulations, and government requirementsImplement quality assurance processes to maintain the highest standards in program deliverablesOversee rigorous design, analysis, testing, and validation of solid rocket motorsWork closely with Quality Management and EHS teams to ensure compliance and safety across all operationsResource Management and Business OperationsManage departmental budgets and resources effectively to meet organizational objectivesOptimize resource allocation across programs and engineering functionsSupport business development activities and strategic growth initiativesDrive operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness while maintaining technical excellenceContinuous ImprovementEvaluate program and engineering performance and identify areas for improvementImplement best practices and lessons learned into future programs and engineering processesChampion organizational learning and knowledge management initiativesContribute to the advancement of X-Bow's innovative manufacturing methodologies Required Qualifications EducationBachelor's degree in Engineering (Aerospace, Mechanical, or related field) requiredMaster's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or related field strongly preferred ExperienceMinimum of 10-12 years of progressive experience in the aerospace or defense industryMinimum of 5-7 years in leadership roles managing programs and/or engineering teamsExtensive experience in program or project management, with demonstrated success managing complex, multi-million dollar programsStrong technical expertise in solid rocket motor design, development, and manufacturing highly desiredProven experience in proposal development and management in the aerospace/defense sectorExperience managing cross-functional teams and multiple concurrent programsTrack record of successful customer engagement and relationship management with government and commercial clients Skills and CompetenciesExceptional leadership and people management skills with ability to inspire and develop high-performing teamsDeep understanding of project management principles, methodologies, and tools (Agile, Waterfall, Earned Value Management)Strong technical acumen with ability to make sound engineering and programmatic decisionsExcellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skillsStrategic thinking with ability to balance long-term vision with near-term executionProven ability to work independently and make decisions with minimal oversight in fast-paced environmentsStrong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilitiesAbility to manage multiple priorities and deliver results under compressed timelinesExperience with government contracting, ITAR compliance, and defense industry regulations Location RequirementsThis position may be based in the vicinity of existing X-Bow offices, including:Luling, TXSalt Lake City, UTHuntsville, ALOthers ITAR RequirementsTo conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., a protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. What We OfferSenior leadership opportunity in a cutting-edge rocket propulsion technology companyDirect impact on national defense and security initiativesFast-paced, innovative environment with significant growth potentialCollaborative culture with opportunity to shape organizational directionCompetitive compensation and benefits packageOpportunity to work with world-class engineering and program management teams
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