Staff Structural Analyst

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.

About the role

As a Staff Structural Analyst, you will perform high-fidelity structural analysis to ensure the performance and reliability of our solid rocket motor (SRM) products. You will work closely with design, manufacturing, and test teams to support development, qualification, and production programs. We seek experienced analysts who bring new skills and best practices from prior experience and who will mentor employees as the team grows.

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)
• 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
• Mentor and coach analysis engineers, helping to build organizational capability in structural analysis, multi-physics analysis, and engineering best practices

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
• 8+ years of experience in structural analysis of aerospace components
• Proficiency in finite element analysis (FEA) using commercial codes
• Experience in thermal-structural static analysis
• 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

• M.S. degree or higher in Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering, or a comparable field, ideally focusing on solid mechanics, fracture, or structural dynamics
• Experience with solid rocket motors, propulsion systems, and high-temperature materials
• Knowledge of composite materials, insulation, ablative thermal protection systems, and viscoelastic materials
• Hands-on experience with testing and data correlation
• Experience in loads development for vehicle and/or motor applications and dynamic analysis experience
• 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
• Experience supporting failure investigations and root-cause analysis

Pay

Colorado base compensation range: $140,000 – $175,000, determined by education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Schedule

Full-time exempt position.

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

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