Principal Materials Engineer

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 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 Principal Materials & Processes Engineer at Ursa Major, you are a recognized technical leader responsible for shaping and advancing materials and processes strategies across major programs. You combine deep technical expertise with broad project and cross-disciplinary influence, acting as the go-to authority for complex materials challenges. Principal Engineers at Ursa Major guide high-impact engineering decisions, set and uphold technical standards, mentor staff, and drive continuous improvement across teams. You enable the success of multiple products and initiatives through technical leadership, proactive problem-solving, and by fostering a culture of excellence in everything related to materials and processes.

Responsibilities

• Act as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) on materials selection and processes for critical aerospace propulsion applications.
• Lead complex material and process development projects, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Oversee the development, review, and approval of material and process specifications, ensuring alignment with design and aerospace industry standards.
• Optimize existing processes and conduct trades for in-house development versus outsourcing (e.g., additive manufacturing, brazing, machining, joining, etc.).
• Conduct high-level materials failure investigations, own material-related branches of root cause analysis, and recommend corrective actions.
• Define the technology roadmap for materials, advancing aerospace materials and manufacturing strategies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including design, manufacturing, and quality, to solve technical challenges across the product lifecycle.
• Mentor and coach senior and junior engineers to ensure the effective application of materials and processes best practices.
  
  

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Aerospace Engineering, or related field and 8 years of professional experience in aerospace or materials engineering roles. Candidates with a bachelor’s degree and extensive relevant experience will also be considered.
• Expertise in metallic materials (e.g., stainless steels, nickel, titanium, aluminum alloys) and advanced manufacturing processes (e.g., additive manufacturing, casting, forging, brazing, or welding).
• Demonstrated experience with root cause analysis and material failure investigations in production environments.
• Proficiency in material testing methods, aerospace materials standards (ASTM, AMS), and quality systems (AS9100 or NADCAP).
• Strong leadership and project management capabilities, including prioritizing and executing in fast-paced environments.
• Ability to collaborate cross-functionally, communicate effectively, and make data-driven decisions to support business objectives.
  
  

Preferred Experience

• Propulsion systems experience, with a focus on materials for high-temperature or high-stress environments.
• Hands-on experience with additive manufacturing techniques, such as laser powder bed fusion, and process qualification.
• Expertise in joining methods, such as TIG welding, EB welding, and brazing.
• Experience establishing allowables and qualification frameworks for aerospace materials, including additive metals.
• Hands-on laboratory experience with metallography, material characterization tools, and advanced testing equipment.
• Previous involvement with creating or expanding materials labs or bringing new testing/characterization capabilities online.
  
  

Colorado law requires us to tell you the base compensation range of this role, which is $160,000 - $190,000, 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.