Senior Propulsion Applications Engineer

Ursa Major is seeking a Senior Propulsion Applications Engineer within Advanced Programs to evaluate new applications for Ursa Major’s propulsion systems and derivatives. This role blends systems engineering and design engineering to evaluate challenging new mission concepts, functional needs, environments, and risks. You will work cross-functionally with business development, design, test, manufacturing, and program teams to develop new concepts and proposals, as well as help initiate the early phases of new programs. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Work directly with customers and business development teams to brainstorm and evaluate new opportunities spanning liquid rocket engines, satellite thrusters, solid rocket motors, and other propulsion products.
• Produce original sizing and scoping analyses which estimate performance, cost, and schedule for Ursa Major product variants and derivatives.
• Perform basic CAD tasks to sketch and modify system-level concepts.
• Lead system-level risk analysis and mitigation plans for proposed concepts.
• Work with the business development, program, technical, legal, and finance teams to lead new opportunities through a gate review process which advocates for a program bid.
• Provide “gap-filling” engineering leadership for early programs which develop as a result of Advanced Programs proposals.
• Lead execution of hardware test and/or development campaigns to increase technology readiness levels as necessary.  

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• 4-8+ years of experience in the aerospace industry.
• Experience with propulsion systems, launch vehicles, or defense aerospace programs. 
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration abilities. 

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Comprehensive knowledge of systems engineering processes, including requirements development and verification.
• Familiarity with aerospace industry standards (AS9100, NASA, MIL-STD, etc.).
• Competency in basic mechanical design principles and CAD (NX, etc).
• Hands-on experience with testing and validation of high-performance hardware.
• Experience performing system level modeling and simulation. 

Work Environment: 

• This role is available as a hybrid (3+ days on-site) or fully on-site position in Berthoud, Colorado. Relocation assistance provided. 

Colorado law requires us to tell you the base compensation range of this role, which is $125,000 - $150,000, determined by your education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities. The salary range for this role is intentionally wide as we are evaluating individuals based on their unique experience and abilities to fit our needs. Most importantly, we are excited to meet you, and see if you are a great fit for our team. What we can’t quantify for you are the exciting challenges, supportive team, and amazing culture we enjoy. Click here for more information about our awesome benefits.