Senior Thermal Ablation Analyst

Ursa Major; Boulder (CO); On-site; USD 128,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Unlimited PTO

Parental leave

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

HSA/FSA

Disability Insurance

Life Insurance

401k with match

Equity Grants

Job summary

Ursa Major in Colorado is seeking a Senior Thermal/Ablation Analyst to perform high‑fidelity thermal analyses for propulsion and defense systems. You will collaborate with design, manufacturing and test teams to support development and production programs.

The role requires 4+ years of aerospace thermal analysis experience, FE/CFD tools (Thermal Desktop, SINDA/FLUINT, ITRAC) and strong problem solving. U.S. person and clearance eligibility preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
• 4+ years of aerospace thermal analysis experience.
• Proficiency with finite element and thermal analysis tools.
• Ability to interpret drawings, specs and test data.
• Strong problem-solving in a fast-paced development environment.
• U.S. Person and ability to obtain security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Conduct thermal modeling and analysis for components and systems under extreme conditions.
• Perform transient and steady-state analyses to evaluate heat transfer and materials response.
• Develop and validate analytical models using Thermal Desktop, SINDA/FLUINT, ITRAC.
• Assess insulation, ablative behavior, and TPS effectiveness with analytical tools.
• Correlate predictions with test data and refine models accordingly.
• Work with design and manufacturing to optimize thermal performance.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Participate in design reviews, failures investigations, and improvements.

Skills

Finite element analysis

Thermal analysis

Heat transfer

Engineering drawings interpretation

Problem solving

Cross-functional teamwork

4+ years thermal analysis

Education

Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor’s in Aerospace Engineering

Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

Thermal Desktop

SINDA/FLUINT

ITRAC

CFD

FEA

Job description

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.

Role Overview

As a Senior Thermal/Ablation Analyst, 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., 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.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• 4+ years of experience in thermal analysis of aerospace components.
• Note: Ursa Major is considering candidates for this position at multiple levels. Based on your experience, we may be able to adjust the level of the role along with the associated compensation range accordingly.
• 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 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

Colorado law requires us to tell you the base compensation range of this role, which is $128,000 - $160,000, 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

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.

Must be a U.S. Person (this includes U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents)

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.