Draper Engineering

Summer 2026 Propulsion Engineering Intern, Draper

Berthoud, CO

Apply Now

The future of aerospace and defense starts here.

Ursa Major was founded to revolutionize how America and its allies access and apply high-performance propulsion, from hypersonics to solid rocket motors, satellite maneuvering and launch. We design and deliver propulsion and defense systems that solve the most urgent and critical national security demands.

Join us for a hands-on, full-time summer internship experience at our Berthoud, CO location!
Ursa Major’s Summer 2026 Internship Program offers students the opportunity to gain real-world experience in the aerospace and defense industry while contributing to meaningful, high-impact projects that support our mission and drive innovation in propulsion and advanced manufacturing.

As a Propulsion Engineering Intern, you will work alongside the design team on one of our engine programs. You will learn and practice a range of skills in support of architecture trade studies, CAD model management, test data analysis, structural/fluid/thermal analysis, and engine cycle modeling to gain an integrated understanding of closed cycle, pump fed rocket engines.

Job Expectations:

Learn fundamentals of engine design and test.
Learn and perform test data reviews and correlate data to the engine cycle model. 
Perform component inspections alongside Responsible Engineers and assess engine-level interactions. 
Desire to learn quickly and become a contributor to the success of the program.

Required Skills: 

3D modeling experience. 
Junior level exposure to fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, mechanics of materials, etc.
Knowledge of Python/MATLAB.

Desired Skills: 

Experience with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
Hands on experience taking an engineering project through the design, build, and test process.
Completion of an undergraduate or graduate level rocket propulsion course. 
Experience with Siemens NX.

Program Details:

Location: On-site at our Berthoud, CO facility
Duration: Approximately 10–12 weeks
Schedule: Full-time, Monday–Friday
This is a paid internship

Colorado law requires us to tell you the base compensation range of this role, which is $29.00/hour, 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.  

Benefits Include: (Please note, Interns are not eligible for benefits)

Unlimited PTO - Vacation, Sick, Personal, and Bereavement
Paid Parental and Adoptive Leave
Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
Tax Advantage Accounts (HSA/FSA)
Employer Paid Short and Long Term Disability, Basic Life, AD&D
Additional Benefit Options Including Voluntary Life and Emergency Medical Transport
EAP Program
Retirement Savings Plan - Traditional 401(k) and a Roth 401(k)
Equity Grants in the Company

How To Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by clicking the “Apply Now” link at the top of the page. Usra Major will be accepting applications on a rolling basis until the position is closed.

NOTE: Research suggests that women and BIPOC individuals may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage anyone who believes they have the skills and the drive necessary to succeed here to apply for this role.

US CITIZENSHIP, PERMANENT RESIDENCY, REFUGEE OR ASYLUM STATUS IS REQUIRED.

We’re an equal-opportunity employer. You will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

No outside recruiters, please.