ROLE MISSION: 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
A successful Production Lead will:
- Ensure safe, stable, and efficient daily production operations
- Achieve 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
QUALIFICATIONS
Required:
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
- Ability to work reliably in a production environment with physical processes and equipment
- 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
About Blackwave Texas Inc.
Blackwave stands for passion and innovation in aerospace. What began as a small start-up in Munich, Germany, has evolved into a global player in the aerospace industry. Our focus is on developing and manufacturing standardized pressure vessels (COPVs) and advanced carbon structures. With our “off-the-shelf” approach, we set new standards—efficient, reliable, and future-oriented. Progress drives us: with courage, creativity, and technical excellence, we are shaping the next generation of space technologies.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
Blackwave Texas Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.
ITAR Eligibility
Because we work on technologies that are subject to U.S. export regulations (ITAR), this role can only be filled by individuals who meet specific eligibility criteria.
To be considered, you must be one of the following:
- a U.S. citizen or U.S. national,
- a U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder),
- a refugee or asylee admitted under U.S. law,
- or otherwise authorized to receive U.S. export-controlled information from the Department of State.
At Blackwave Texas Inc., we hire for talent, curiosity, and the drive to build what’s next. Employment decisions are based on merit, competence, and qualifications — never on what makes people different.
We’re proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, and we do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
If you’d like to review our affirmative action plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or if you require an accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact us at [email protected]
For this U.S.-based role, your application will be managed by our global People Team in Germany.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $60,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- What is your desired salary?
- What is the earliest date you are available to start this position?
Work Location: In person
