Propulsion Engineer (Vehicle) Verified today

Ursa Major · Berthoud, CO · Propulsion · first seen 2026-07-16

About the Role

Ursa Major is seeking a Propulsion Engineer I (propulsion systems) to support the technical definition, integration, and execution of propulsion systems for hypersonic vehicles. You will serve as a central member of the team, taking immediate ownership of your system as a responsible engineer. This role spans propulsion design, vehicle integration, systems engineering, and test, with ownership from early concept through flight demonstration and production transition.

Key Responsibilities

Clean sheet design and analysis of fluid and mechanical vehicle components including tanks, structures, feed systems, propellant management, and fluid systems
Leverage first-principles engineering to drive design and technical decisions
Support rapid development cycles of new designs and changing requirements including testing, data analysis and hands-on hardware work
Design modifications of existing components and prototypes to increase performance, improve manufacturability or resolve limitations
Support test planning and execution, including ground and flight test support
Participate in failure investigations, nonconformance resolution, and continuous design improvement
Assembly and testing of first article prototypes
Collaborate with manufacturing, analysis, and test teams to reduce part-to-part variation and discrepancies
Work with other engineers on 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) meetings
Support manufacturing through design for manufacturability (DFM) and producibility considerations

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
1-3 years of experience in propulsion systems engineering or propulsion-focused vehicle development. Strong internship or project/academic club experience in related field acceptable.
Demonstrated proficiency with computer aided design and drafting
Knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing per ASME Y14.5
Working knowledge of and hands-on experience with fluid, mechanical, and electrical systems
Desire to take ownership and help wherever needed on the team
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and stay flexible based on customer demands and company priorities
Excellent problem solving, task management, and communication skills
Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance
Must be a U.S. Person (U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident)

Preferred Qualifications

Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering or related field
1+ years of Siemens NX CAD and Windchill PLM software
Experience leading design reviews to communicate design decisions and trades
Experience in design and analysis of tanks, structures or fluids
Coordination with analysis and lead engineers to quickly mature designs
Demonstrated proficiency with basic principles of design for manufacturing
Ability to make sound technical decisions under schedule and performance pressure
Experience operating in ISO 9001 or AS9100 certified organizations
Strong understanding of industry standards and requirements
Demonstrated proficiency with fundamental manual or CNC machining equipment and processes (milling, turning)
Experience with fluids, structural and thermal analysis using Ansys software
Liquid propellant rocket engine design, test, or analysis