Senior Thermal Ablation Analyst

Ursa Major designs and delivers propulsion and defense systems that solve urgent and critical national security demands.

About the role

As a Senior Thermal/Ablation Analyst, you will perform high-fidelity thermal analyses to ensure the performance and reliability of our products. You will work closely with design, manufacturing, and test teams to support development, qualification, and production programs.

Responsibilities

• Conduct thermal modeling and analysis for components and systems under extreme operating conditions.
• Perform transient and steady-state thermal analyses to evaluate heat transfer, thermal gradients, and material response.
• Develop and validate analytical models using industry-standard software (e.g., Thermal Desktop, SINDA/FLUINT, ITRAC).
• Assess insulation performance, ablative material behavior, and thermal protection system effectiveness utilizing analytical tools and hands-on inspection methods.
• Correlate analytical predictions with test data and refine models accordingly.
• Work with design and manufacturing teams to optimize thermal performance and ensure feasibility.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation for internal and external stakeholders.
• Participate in design reviews, failure investigations, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• 4+ years of experience in thermal analysis of aerospace components.
• Proficiency in finite element and computational thermal analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of heat transfer principles, thermal expansion, and high-temperature material behavior.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and test data.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced development environment.
• Must be a U.S. Person (U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident).
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
• Experience with CFD, FEA, or other multidisciplinary analysis.
• Experience with solid rocket motors, propulsion systems, or high-temperature materials.
• Knowledge of ablative materials, insulation systems, and thermal protection systems.
• Hands-on experience with testing and data correlation.
• Experience testing and evaluating materials for use in engineering applications.

Pay

Base compensation range: $128,000 - $160,000, determined by education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Schedule

Full-time exempt.

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