Structural & Thermal Analysis Engineer II, Solid Missile Systems

Role details

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. Our Solid Rocket Motor (SRM) team is growing, and we are seeking a Structural and Thermal Analysis Engineer II to support the design, analysis, and validation of advanced solid propulsion systems.

As a Structural and Thermal Analysis Engineer II , you will be responsible for performing high-fidelity structural and thermal analyses to ensure the performance and reliability of our SRM products. You will work closely with design, manufacturing, and test teams to support development, qualification, and production programs.

Key Responsibilities

Conduct finite element analysis (FEA) for structural integrity, thermal performance, and dynamic behavior of solid rocket motor components. Perform coupled thermal-stress analyses to assess material response under extreme conditions. Support design iterations by providing data-driven recommendations for component geometry, material selection, and thermal protection systems. Develop and validate analytical models using industry-standard software (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus, NASTRAN, Thermal Desktop). Evaluate test data and correlate analytical models with physical testing results.

Collaborate with engineering teams to develop company-wide processes, models, and tools that meet requirements and comply with structural standards. Collaborate with the manufacturing team to assess nonconforming hardware for development and flight components and provide recommended dispositions and repairs. Work with manufacturing teams to ensure design feasibility and support process optimization. Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation for internal and external stakeholders. Participate in design reviews, failure investigations, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field. 3+ years of experience in structural and thermal analysis of aerospace components. Proficiency in finite element analysis (FEA) and thermal modeling tools. Understanding of material properties, thermal expansion, and high-temperature structural behavior. Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and test data. Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced development environment.

Preferred Qualifications

Master's degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a comparable field, ideally focusing on solid mechanics, fatigue, fracture, or structural dynamics. Experience with solid rocket motors, propulsion systems, or high-temperature materials. Knowledge of composite materials, insulation, and ablative thermal protection systems. Hands-on experience with testing and data correlation. Experience in loads development for vehicle and/or motor applications. Fracture analysis experience (crack growth/safe-life and assessing for instability via LEFM). Low Cycle Fatigue Analysis (LCF, crack initiation predicted by a strain-life approach). Experience with the ANSYS FEA suite.

Prior experience working on safety-critical systems in production environments. A track record of effective oral and written communications to support recommendations. Colorado law requires us to tell you the base compensation range of this role, which is $91,000 - $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, 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 How 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. US CITIZENSHIP, PERMANENT RESIDENCY, REFUGEE OR ASYLUM STATUS IS REQUIRED. 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.