Lead Production - Advanced Composite Materials

The Production Lead will lead the manufacturing composite team in Texas. They will have a team of operators that need to be trained to operate the machines. About Blackwave Blackwave designs, manufactures and ships flight-qualified, commercial off-the-shelf composite overwrapped pressure vessels (COPVs) for launch vehicles and satellites. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Munich, Germany, the company delivers COPVs from a standardized portfolio with flight heritage. The approach reduces lead time from months to days while ensuring that each tank is qualified and flight-ready. Blackwave's mission is to end COPV failure in spaceflight. The company employs more than 150 people across manufacturing facilities in Germany and Texas. More information at Blackwave.com and the procurement platform COPV.com. Description The mission of the Production Lead is to ensure stable, efficient, and high-quality production of advanced material products by leading on-site manufacturing operations, processes, and teams. The role is responsible for operational excellence, process reliability, and continuous improvement in a hands-on production environment. Expected Outcomes Safe, stable, and efficient daily production operations Consistent product quality in line with specifications and standards Meet production targets for output, efficiency, and yield Identify and resolve production issues proactively Establish clear structures, processes, and responsibilities on the shop floor Support scalability and operational readiness as production grows Key Responsibilities Lead and oversee on-site production operations and workflows Ensure compliance with production plans, work instructions, and quality requirements Monitor and improve production performance, efficiency, and output Identify deviations, root causes, and implement corrective actions Coordinate closely with engineering, quality, logistics, and operations teams Ensure proper use, setup, and maintenance of production equipment Enforce safety, cleanliness, and workplace standards Train, guide, and support production staff on-site Contribute to continuous improvement of processes, layouts, and workflows Support introduction of new processes, materials, or production methods Competencies Technical And Operational Know-how Strong understanding of manufacturing and production processes Ability to work with technical equipment, materials, and process parameters Experience with structured production environments and documentation Understanding of quality, safety, and process control principles Leadership And Professional Skills Hands-on leadership approach with strong presence on the shop floor Structured, reliable, and solution-oriented working style Ability to prioritize tasks and manage daily operational challenges Strong communication and coordination skills Ability to lead by example in an on-site environment Required Qualifications Education and Experience Technical education, vocational training, or engineering background Several years of experience in production, manufacturing, or industrial operations Proven experience in a lead, supervisor, or senior operator role Experience working in structured, process-driven environments Language Skills English is required Ability to communicate clearly in spoken English in a production environment Ability to read, understand, and apply technical documentation in English Work Model On-site work is mandatory Willingness to work closely with production teams and equipment on a daily basis Our current facility is located in Lockhart, Texas (near Austin/San Antonio) In mid-2026, Blackwave will relocate to a new site in the Port San Antonio aerospace hub Equal Opportunity Employer Blackwave Texas Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected characteristics under applicable law. ITAR Requirement This position requires eligibility under U.S. export regulations (ITAR). Candidates must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. permanent resident, or otherwise authorized to access export-controlled information. For this U.S.-based role, your application will be managed by our global People Team in Germany. #J-18808-Ljbffr Blackwave