Propulsion Engineer II (Vehicle)

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. Ursa Major is seeking a Propulsion Engineer II (propulsion systems) to support the technical definition, integration, and execution of propulsion systems for hypersonic vehicles. Ursa Major’s teams move fast and does a lot with little. We are looking for a skilled, fast-learning individual who will serve as a central member of the team and take immediate ownership of their system as a responsible engineer. This role sits at the intersection of propulsion design, vehicle integration, systems engineering, and test, with ownership from early concept through flight demonstration and production transition.The ideal candidate brings propulsion experience, strong systems thinking, and the ability to drive technical decisions in fast-paced, hardware-centric programs.Key ResponsibilitiesClean sheet design and analysis of fluid & mechanical vehicle components including tanks, structures, feed systems, propellant management, and fluid systemsLeverage first-principles engineering to drive design and technical decisionsSupport rapid development cycles of new designs and changing requirements including testing, data analysis and hands-on hardware workDesign modifications of existing components and prototypes to increase performance, improve manufacturability or resolve limitationsSupport test planning and execution, including ground and flight test supportParticipate in failure investigations, nonconformance resolution, and continuous design improvementAssembly and testing of first article prototypesCollaborate with the manufacturing, analysis, and test teams to reduce part-to-part variation and discrepanciesWork with other engineers at Ursa Major on topics including design of components, system sizing, component testing, and system-level architecture.Interface with customers and external partners during design reviews, technical interchange meetings (TIMs), and integrated product team (IPT) meetingsSupport manufacturing through design for manufacturability (DFM) and producibility considerationsRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field3-5 years of experience in propulsion systems engineering or propulsion-focused vehicle developmentDemonstrated proficiency with computer aided design and drafting Experience with geometric dimensioning and tolerancing per ASME Y14.5Working knowledge of and hands-on experience with fluid, mechanical, and electrical systemsDesire to take ownership and help wherever needed on the teamAbility to work in a fast-paced environment and stay flexible based on customer demands and company priorities along with daily firefightingExcellent problem solving, task management, and communication skillsAbility to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security ClearancePreferred QualificationsMaster’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or related fieldDesire to take ownership of multiple projects at once2+ years of Siemens NX CAD programs and Windchill PLM softwareExperience leading design reviews to communicate design decisions and trades. Well versed in documenting those reviewsExperience in design and analysis of tanks, structures or fluidsCoordination with analysis and lead engineers to quickly mature designsDemonstrated proficiency with basic principles of design for manufacturingAbility to make sound technical decisions under schedule and performance pressureExperience operating in ISO 9001 or AS9100 certified organizationsStrong understanding of industry standards and requirementsDemonstrated proficiency with fundamental manual or CNC machining equipment and processes (milling, turning)Experience with fluids, structural and thermal analysis using Ansys softwareLiquid propellant rocket engine design, test, or analysisColorado law requires us to tell you the base compensation range of this role, which is $92,000 - $115,000, determined by your education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities. What we can’t quantify for you are the exciting challenges, supportive team, and amazing culture we enjoy. Classification: Full-time ExemptBenefits Include: (Please note, Interns are not eligible for benefits)Unlimited PTO - Vacation, Sick, Personal, and BereavementPaid Parental and Adoptive LeaveMedical, Dental and Vision InsuranceTax Advantage Accounts (HSA/FSA)Employer Paid Short and Long Term Disability, Basic Life, AD&DAdditional Benefit Options Including Voluntary Life and Emergency Medical TransportEAP ProgramRetirement Savings Plan - 401k with Company MatchEquity Grants in the CompanyHow To Apply: Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by filling out the application below and clicking "Submit Application". This position will be posted for a minimum of 3 days and will remain open until filled or adjusted based on the volume of applicants.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.Must be a U.S. Person (this includes U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents).Eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance. 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.