Rocket Manufacturing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Description: Maintenance Engineer (Rocket Factory & Assembly Plant)

About Us: 

X-Bow Systems is a cutting-edge aerospace technology company focused on revolutionizing propulsion systems for space exploration and defense applications. Our team of innovative engineers and scientists is committed to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in rocket propulsion. As we continue to expand our operations, we are seeking a talented and driven Maintenance Engineer to join our team.

Role Overview

The Maintenance Engineer provides engineering support for planned and unplanned repairs, modifications, and upgrades of production equipment at our rocket manufacturing and assembly plant in Luling, TX. Serving as the primary technical resource for maintenance technicians, you will resolve the most challenging technical issues facing the team. You will take end-to-end ownership of equipment improvement projects-from concept through design and implementation-to maximize critical production equipment availability and enable the team to rapidly pursue its mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Technical Leadership: Lead maintenance technicians to troubleshoot and resolve technically complex equipment failures, including automated assembly lines, high-precision machines, and specialized rocket testing hardware.

• Hands-On Troubleshooting: Complete hands-on, in-depth repairs of equipment mechanical, electrical, fluid, pneumatic, and robotic control system failures.

• Root Cause Analysis (RCA): Perform RCAs and action corrective measures to address equipment, process, and behavioral gaps to eliminate recurring failures.

• Project Management: Develop, scope, and execute complex equipment improvement and upgrade projects, coordinating both internal teams and 3rd party contractors.

• Design Collaboration: Collaborate with development engineering, Equipment Reliability, Tool Engineering, and Automation Engineering teams to build reliability and maintenance efficiency "up-front" into new assets.

• Reliability & Predictive Tools: Implement predictive tools (vibration analysis, cycle monitoring, telemetry) to drive a proactive Reliability Centered Maintenance (RCM) model.

• Process Optimization: Leverage technician feedback to update preventative maintenance instructions, streamline work processes, and eliminate low-value tasks.

• CMMS & Spares Management: Provide leadership for Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) utilization and build optimized machine spare parts lists, min/max levels, and parts criticality analyses.

• Production Support: Interface cross-functionally with engineering, quality, production, and procurement to resolve any hold factors blocking rocket manufacturing.

Basic Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline (Mechanical, Electrical, or Aerospace preferred).

• Experience: 2+ year of hands-on experience in a manufacturing environment (applicable internships, co-ops, and project work included).

• Legal Requirement: Due to ITAR regulations regarding rocket manufacturing technology, US Citizenship or Permanent Residency is strictly required.

Preferred Skills & Experience

• 4+ years of troubleshooting technical problems with automated industrial machinery in a high-precision manufacturing plant (aerospace, automotive, or semiconductor).

• Familiarity with cleanroom environments (ISO Class 7/8) and vacuum system maintenance.

• Proficiency using MRP, ERP, and CMMS software platforms (such as Fiix or UpKeep).

• Ability to interpret mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, GD&T, and P&IDs.

• Detail-oriented and organized, with strong interpersonal skills and a high sense of urgency in a fast-paced environment.

• Familiarity with DoD Contractors' Safety Manual for Ammunition and Explosives (specifically known as DoD 4145.26-M).

Physical & Working Conditions

• Effort: Physical effort required, including standing, lifting, and carrying equipment up to 25 lbs. unassisted.

• Environment: Active presence on the factory floor, with the ability to work in outdoor environments, confined spaces, or at heights as needed.

• Schedule: Must be available to work extended hours, occasional shift work, or weekends to support critical test and production schedules.

To 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.

X-Bow Launch Systems, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with X-Bow Launch Systems, Inc. is based on merit, competence, and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.