Ursa Major was founded to address a critical shortfall in the U.S. industrial base and bring a new model to aerospace and defense systems: we design and manufacture the world’s leading propulsion systems for space, hypersonic applications, and missile systems.
Our products and technologies require an extraordinary team – a team that will mold tomorrow’s technologies while deploying today’s best. We are an intrinsically motivated team that has a passion for solving problems and empowering each other every day to develop our skills, knowing that there is always room for growth.
As a Thermal Analysis Engineer, you will be responsible for performing 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.
Key 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., ANSYS Thermal, Thermal Desktop, SINDA/FLUINT).
- Assess insulation performance, ablative material behavior, and thermal protection system effectiveness.
- 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.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
- 3+ 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.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
- Experience with SFD, 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.
Colorado law requires us to tell you the base compensation range of this role, which is $95,000 - $125,000, 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. Click here for more information about our awesome benefits.
Classification: Full-time Exempt
Benefits Include:
- 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 - Traditional 401(k) and a Roth 401(k)
- Equity Grants in the Company
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.
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.
Top Skills
Ursa Major Berthoud, Colorado, USA Office
Our one-of-a kind campus co-locates engineering, manufacturing, & testing operations, allowing for unmatched development time and the chance for employees, customers, and investors alike to experience rocket engine testing as a part of the normal work day.
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