Senior Engineer, Propulsion Systems

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 Engineer, 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 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 deep propulsion experience, strong systems thinking, and the ability to drive technical decisions in fast-paced, hardware-centric programs.This role is available to work as a hybrid (2-days per week remote) or on-site role out of our Berthoud, Colorado office. Key ResponsibilitiesClean sheet design and analysis of fluid & mechanical vehicle components including tanks, feed systems, propellant management, and fluid systemsSupport 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 limitationsCollaborate with the manufacturing, analysis, and test teams to reduce part-to-part variation and discrepanciesAssemble and test first article prototypesLead propulsion subsystem architecture and requirements definition for hypersonic vehiclesOwn subsystem-level propulsion trades, performance margins, and integration decisionsServe as the technical authority for propulsion interfaces with vehicle structures, thermal, avionics, GNC, and mission engineeringDevelop and manage propulsion requirements, verification plans, and compliance evidenceCollaborate closely with vehicle and systems engineers to ensure mission and performance alignmentSupport ground test and flight test planning, execution, and post-test data analysisIdentify propulsion system risks and drive mitigation strategies across design, manufacturing, and testProvide technical leadership and mentorship to early- and mid-career engineersSupport customer technical reviews, design reviews, and technical interchange meetingsContribute to proposal development, including technical approaches, architectures, and risk postureRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field8+ years of experience in propulsion systems engineering or propulsion-focused vehicle developmentDemonstrated experience supporting hypersonic, missile, or high-performance aerospace vehiclesStrong understanding of:Propulsion system architecture and integrationVehicle-level performance and propulsion impactsRequirements development and verificationExperience working across disciplines in a systems engineering environmentDemonstrated 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 systemsStrong understanding of industry standards and requirementsDesire to take ownership and help wherever needed on the teamAble to delegate tasks and lead large project scopeAbility to work in a fast-paced environment and stay flexible based on customer demands and company priorities along with daily firefightingAbility to make sound technical decisions under schedule and performance pressureStrong written and verbal communication skillsAbility to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security ClearancePreferred QualificationsMaster’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or related fieldExperience with hypersonic propulsion architectures (e.g., SRM, liquid rocket, advanced boost systems)Experience supporting flight test or demonstration programsFamiliarity with thermal, structural, and aero integration challenges in hypersonic regimesExperience in design and analysis of fluids systemsExperience operating in ISO 9001 or AS9100 certified organizationsExperience with SMC-S-016 Test RequirementsDemonstrated proficiency with fundamental manual or CNC machining equipment and processes (milling, turning)Experience with fluids, structural and thermal analysis using Ansys software3+ years of PTC Creo or Siemens NX CAD programs and Windchill PLM softwareLiquid propellant rocket engine design, test, or analysisExperience with model-based systems engineering (MBSE) or digital engineering toolsPrior experience serving as a technical lead or subsystem ownerColorado 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. 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 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.