Senior Systems Engineer

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 Senior Systems Engineer within the SMS Systems & Mission Team to creatively drive safety, reliability, and risk management solutions for our propulsion systems. This role is responsible for the safe design and operation of our fielded rocket motors to ensure they meet the highest standards of performance and safety. You will work cross-functionally with systems engineering, mission operations, design, test, manufacturing, and program teams to develop robust product safety strategies and ensure successful mission execution. You will also own the relationship between Ursa Major and DoD Safety Review Boards.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement mission assurance processes to ensure product reliability, safety, and performance
• Own the Ursa Major relationship with branch specific Weapon Safety Boards and assist with authoring & presenting motor qualification plans & test reports for WSESRB, JSWRB, etc. approval
• Own technical inputs to Interim Hazard Classification (IHC) & Final Hazard Classification (FHC) planning, execution and approval for motor shipments and fielding
• Establish and maintain best practices for risk register management across different programs and products; present both internally and externally as required
• Work with design and product teams to find creative and efficient solutions to engineering challenges that ultimately reduce product risk; develop system safety requirements for product design
• Perform system-level failure assessments (Failure Modes & Effects Analysis (FMEA), Fault Hazard Analysis (FHA), etc.) to inform system design and risk tracking
• Establish plans for end-to-end product lifecycle, including but not limited to any required handling restrictions, demilitarization, and disposal
• Assist with flight test range safe execution planning
• Lead failure investigations
• Perform reliability assessments for motor products
• Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering or a related field
• 4+ years of experience in system safety, mission assurance, or systems engineering
• Experience with solid rocket motors, ignition systems, propulsion systems, launch vehicles, or defense aerospace programs
• Experience with risk analysis methods (FMEA, FHA, probabilistic risk assessment)
• Familiarity with aerospace industry standards (MIL-STD-882, etc.)
• Experience working with cross-functional teams, interfacing with internal/external customers
• Demonstrated ability to break down complex problems, strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced development environment
• This position requires that the employee be eligible and maintain eligibility for a Secret Clearance

Desired Experience

• Master’s degree in a relevant technical discipline
• Comprehensive knowledge of systems engineering processes, including requirements development and verification
• Hands‑on experience with testing and validation of high‑performance hardware

Colorado law requires us to tell you the base compensation range of this role, which is $130,000 - $163,000, 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 Exempt

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 - 401k with Company Match
• Equity Grants in the Company

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.