Energetics Lab Manager

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.

We are looking for a skilled and motivated Energetics Lab Manager to support solid rocket motor propellant formulation, scale up, and analysis. The ideal candidate will have experience with energetic materials formulation, characterization, polymer chemistry, and a strong commitment to energetics safety and quality. This role involves managing energetics processing, analytical laboratory, and propellant mixing and motor casting facility.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage the solid rocket motor propellant development and analysis team to meet program and product needs and timelines.

• Support solid rocket motor materials characterization requirements: Manage team to develop analytical procedures, calibration curves, failure envelopes, test standards, and analytical results databases.

• Enforce and inform all safety protocols and procedures for working with energetic materials, including proper handling, storage, and disposal.

• Participate in safety briefings and training sessions to stay updated on best practices and safety regulations.

• Present data analysis and results discussions/meetings. Understand processes to point to key findings, anomalies or issues and that may impact development efforts.

• Develop novel analytical methods to supplement both internal research and development methods and quality control requirements.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience: 8+ years of experience working as a materials engineer, chemical engineer, polymer chemist, in energetics development, scale up and formulation.

• Experience leading teams of engineers and technicians on energetics programs.

• Experience with laboratory safety protocols for handling hazardous materials.

• Experience reviewing and authoring Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

• Strong laboratory technique and hygiene practices. The ability to think critically. Proficiency with data analysis software, analytical instrumentation software, Microsoft Office suite, and experience presenting analytical results. Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.

• Experience interfacing with customers, reviewing requirements, and developing energetics products.

• Other: Ability to work in a high-pace environment with a focus on safety and precision.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds and perform physical tasks related to test setups and equipment handling.

• Ability to work in environments with varying temperatures and conditions, including outdoor and controlled test environments.

Work Environment:

• The position involves working in office, test facilities, and laboratories which may include exposure to hazardous materials and conditions. Strict adherence to safety protocols and procedures is mandatory.

Colorado law requires us to tell you the base compensation range of this role, which is $148,000 - $178,000, 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: (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.