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Staff Nozzle Design Engineer, Solid Rocket Motors Verified today

Ursa Major · Berthoud, CO · Propulsion · first seen 2026-09-04
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About the Role

You will lead the mechanical design, kinematic analysis, integration, and testing of advanced vectoring nozzle assemblies for Solid Rocket Motor applications. Acting as the technical lead for complex TVC mechanisms, you'll manage everything from internal aerodynamic throat profiles and structural components to electromechanical actuation loops.

Primary Responsibilities

  • Architect and design advanced moveable nozzle configurations for SRMs, applying expertise in flexseal, trapped ball, and split-line structural joints.
  • Lead the selection, integration, and structural mounting of Electromechanical Actuators (EMAs) and feedback sensors including Linear Variable Differential Transformers (LVDTs) and string pots.
  • Perform kinematic, clearance, vectoring envelope analyses, and duty cycle modeling. Optimize structural components for high-pressure, high-thermal, and dynamic environments.
  • Select and specify advanced materials for high-temperature environments, including carbon-phenolics, refractory metals, structural composites, and elastomeric compounds.
  • Author and execute test plans for TVC subsystems. Lead bench-level actuation and acceptance testing, structural proof tests, and vectoring profiles during rocket motor static tests.
  • Manage technical requirements with EMA/LVDT sub-tier suppliers. Present design maturity, risk assessments, and test data at major milestones (PDR, CDR, MRR) to leadership and military stakeholders.

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related STEM discipline.
  • Minimum 7+ years of experience in rocket propulsion design, with at least 4 years dedicated specifically to moveable nozzle or TVC system design.
  • Demonstrated experience designing and analyzing at least two of the following: flexseal/flexible bearings, trapped ball joints, or split-line nozzle architectures.
  • U.S. Citizen with ability to obtain and maintain Department of Defense Secret Security Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Active DoD Secret or Top Secret Clearance.
  • Direct experience correlating flight/test telemetry data with pre-test kinematic and structural models.
  • Strong familiarity with TVC nozzle bench testing, non-destructive inspection (NDI) methods for carbon-phenolic layups and elastomeric flexible bearings.
  • Proficiency with advanced CAD tools such as Creo or NX and finite element analysis software for thermal-structural coupled analysis such as ANSYS.

Compensation and Employment

Base compensation range: $143,360 - $179,200, determined by education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Classification: Full-time Exempt

Benefits include unlimited PTO, paid parental and adoptive leave, medical/dental/vision insurance, tax advantage accounts, employer-paid disability and life insurance, 401k with company match, and equity grants.

Requirements

Must be a U.S. Person (U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident). Eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance required.