Chief Engineer, Hypersonics Integration & Technology

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.

Ursa Major is seeking a Chief Engineer of Hypersonics Integration & Technology to spearhead the development of cutting‑edge hypersonic vehicles using Ursa Major propulsion. This individual will lead the conceptualization of hypersonic vehicles, ensuring a balance between performance and mission success, affordability, and manufacturing  role requires deep technical expertise in hypersonic systems, sensors, mission profiles, and the ability to drive innovative solutions in cross‑functional teams in a fast‑paced environment.

The Chief Engineer will be assigned to the Vehicle Systems Integrated Product Team (IPT) to shape the technical direction of the team and future technology development to meet our government‑military customers’ needs. This position will be based out of Berthoud, CO, or near a relevant military hypersonic center.

• Lead the overall design and development of a hypersonic vehicle from concept to prototype.
• Interface with technical, acquisition, and end‑user government offices to stay current with competing technologies, influence customer requirements, and ensure Ursa Major’s offerings are competitive and strategically aligned with the services and DoD.
• Propose and evaluate novel concepts for solving existing program problems and business‑development opportunities.
• Collaborate with aerodynamics, materials, propulsion, guidance, seeker, and warhead teams to optimize solutions that meet warfighter needs and acquisition program requirements.
• Support design reviews, analysis, and validation of vehicle systems.
• Serve as a judge of technical readiness throughout the program lifecycle, including milestone design reviews.
• Support business development, select key partners and technology for programs, and be accountable for developing the best solutions to achieve program goals.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• 15+ years of experience in aerospace vehicle design, with a strong background in government hypersonics programs.
• Experience working with aerodynamics, structures, propulsion, and integration of sensors, avionics, and warheads, including the trade‑offs that create winning designs for warfighters.
• Demonstrated leadership in multidisciplinary design teams.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, hands‑on development environment while possessing executive presence, credibility, and skills to influence senior executives and military leaders.
• Strong problem‑solving and communication skills.

• Experience with rapid prototyping and flight testing of high‑speed vehicles.
• Familiarity and relationships with DoD customers.
• Knowledge of manufacturing and materials for extreme environments.

Colorado law requires us to disclose the base compensation range for this role: $175,000 – $230,000, determined by education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Classification:
Full‑time Exempt

• Unlimited PTO – vacation, sick, personal, and bereavement
• Paid parental and adoptive leave
• Medical, dental and vision insurance
• Tax‑advantaged 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 – 401(k) with company match
• Equity grants in the company

US citizenship, permanent residency, refugee or asylum status is required.

Eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance.

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 possess the necessary skills to succeed to apply.

We’re an equal‑opportunity employer. Applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.