BAE Systems is hiring a Manufacturing Engineering Manager to support our Combat Mission Systems (CMS) business in Louisville, KY. In this role, you will lead our engineering team in the production of both Navy Barrels and Army Cannons. As a key member of our leadership team, you will be responsible for driving the development and implementation of manufacturing processes, leading cross-functional teams, and ensuring the highest quality and efficiency in our production operations along with ensuring compliance with defense industry standards.
Responsibilities:
- Manage and mentor a team of manufacturing engineers, providing guidance and direction to ensure the successful execution of production projects for both Navy Barrel and Army Cannon manufacturing operations.
- Develop, implement, and optimize manufacturing processes for ensuring efficiency, quality, and compliance with customer requirements.
- Drive the long-range strategic planning process for assigned operations by overseeing and managing aspects of engineering, manufacturing, quality control, and planning.
- Define goals, improve technologies, and resolve problems in conjunction with managers of quality, manufacturing, planning and program management.
- Coordinate and execute daily operations for both Navy Barrel and Army Cannon manufacturing operations, with direct employees across all operating shifts and assigned supporting functions.
- Maintain Safety, Health, Environmental compliance relating to the production facility and assigned area.
- Develop operations-related plans, budgets, policies, and procedures.
- Ensure that all production processes meet or exceed quality standards and implement quality control measures to prevent defects.
- Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement changes to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product quality.
- Collaborate with supply chain teams to ensure timely delivery of materials and components, and to resolve any supply chain-related issues.
- Manage engineering changes and ensure that all changes are properly implemented and documented.
- Develop and implement training programs to ensure that manufacturing engineers have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their jobs effectively.
- Manage performance metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs) to ensure that production
goals are met and exceeded.
Required Education, Experience, & Skills
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field (or equivalent deep technical machining leadership experience).
- Experience: 10+ years in precision machining, including 5+ years in a supervisory/leadership role.
- Technical Expertise:
- Proficiency in CNC programming, G-code, CAM software, and simulation tools.
- Experience managing high-complexity, high-volume manufacturing and machining operations.
- Proficiency in Oracle or similar ERP systems.
- Leadership: Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams in a matrix environment, manage daily value stream operations, and drive results through lean manufacturing and data-driven methods.
- Problem Solving: Strong ability to analyze, isolate, and resolve complex technical and systemic process issues.
Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills
- Industry Experience: Defense (DoD) or Government Contracting, specifically within gun barrel machining and manufacturing.
- Technical Tools: Experience with Vericut software and Design for Manufacturing (DfM) concepts for new product launches.
- Operational Excellence: Expertise in Lean Manufacturing deployment, Earned Value Management (EVM), and KPI/Metric-driven performance management.
- Quality & Communication: Strong knowledge of Manufacturing/Quality Engineering practices and a proven track record of effective customer interfacing.
Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $136000 - $231200
Please note: This range is based on our market pay structures. However, individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience.
Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20+ hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics.
About BAE Systems Platforms & Services
BAE Systems, Inc. is a defense, aerospace, and security company headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, with more than 40,000 employees worldwide. We serve, supply, and protect those who protect us. As one of the most geographically diverse international defense companies, we deliver a full range of products and services spanning air, land, maritime, space, and cyber, including advanced electronics, intelligence solutions, and dedicated customer support.
Our culture is performance-driven and values-led, built on curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Purpose isn't a tagline here. It's what drives us. We're developing breakthrough technologies that defend national security and make a lasting impact on our communities and our planet. When you join BAE Systems, you're not just building a career. You're contributing to a mission that truly matters.
This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field, or equivalent deep technical machining leadership experience
- 10 or more years of experience in precision machining
- At least 5 years of supervisory or leadership experience
- Proficiency in CNC programming, G-code, CAM software, and simulation tools
- Experience managing high-complexity, high-volume manufacturing and machining operations
- Proficiency in Oracle or similar ERP systems
- Ability to lead cross-functional teams in a matrix environment and manage daily value stream operations
- Experience driving results through lean manufacturing and data-driven methods
- Ability to analyze, isolate, and resolve complex technical and systemic process issues
- Defense or government contracting experience, specifically gun barrel machining and manufacturing
- Experience with Vericut software and Design for Manufacturing concepts for new product launches
- Expertise in Lean Manufacturing deployment, Earned Value Management, and KPI or metric-driven performance management
- Strong knowledge of manufacturing and quality engineering practices
- Track record of effective customer interfacing
BAE Systems, Inc. Compensation & Benefits Highlights
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Healthcare Strength — Medical, dental, and vision coverage is presented as comprehensive, paired with an EAP, fertility and transgender care options, and HSA‑compatible plans that can include employer contributions with coverage starting on day one in some cases. These resources are reinforced by wellness tools and immediate eligibility noted on official benefits materials.
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Retirement Support — A 401(k) savings plan is broadly available, with employer matching and other contributions that vary by business unit, and some U.S. employee groups retain pension arrangements. Company‑paid basic life insurance equal to 2x base salary (up to $1M) further strengthens financial security.
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Parental & Family Support — Paid parental leave (e.g., 160 hours for full‑time employees) sits alongside adoption and surrogacy reimbursement and Bright Horizons backup child and elder care. These benefits help reduce care gaps and complement PTO and applicable state programs.
BAE Systems, Inc. Insights
What We Do
Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it’s what we do. As a leading aerospace, defense, and security company, we work together to deliver a full range of products and services for air, land, space, and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. How we work is rooted in purpose – a purpose to protect those who protect us, to unite our community of colleagues and customers, and to drive forward the growth and development of our exceptional team members. It's where purpose connects.
Why Work With Us
We believe your career should be filled with innovation and discovery. And that's exactly what you'll find at BAE Systems. As you work to develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills and expand knowledge. On a sharp and collaborative team, you will be challenged – and supported – at every turn.
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Hybrid Workspace
Employees engage in a combination of remote and on-site work.
As the work place continues to evolve, so do we. Remote and hybrid opportunities are available at BAE Systems depending on the nature of the role. Check your job requisition to learn more.








