Senior Quality 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.

Role Summary

We are seeking a Senior Quality Engineer to take ownership of quality for our Hadley and Draper production lines. This role encompasses both engine-level and subsystem-level quality, and requires a deep understanding of engineering principles, hands-on production support, and process rigor. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong technical leadership, collaborate across teams, and serve as a mentor to a more junior QE. You will make a significant impact on the success of the first US-produced program for reusable small launch engines and will own quality from turbopumps to full hot-fire tests. You will report directly to the Quality Manager and play a pivotal role in ensuring the performance and compliance of some of the most advanced propulsion systems in production.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the quality owner for Hadley and Draper propulsion lines, driving product integrity from subsystem through full engine integration.

• Develop and maintain inspection plans, in-process controls, and quality documentation tailored to complex liquid propulsion hardware.

• Lead and support root cause investigations, managing cross-functional corrective and preventive actions.

• Mentor and guide other Quality Engineers, fostering their technical growth and ownership.

• Partner with engineering, manufacturing, and test to ensure requirements are understood, implemented, and validated throughout the production lifecycle.

• Contribute to a rigorous nonconformance management process, from identification to closure.

• Drive continuous improvement in quality processes, using data analytics, trend monitoring, and risk-based thinking.

• Support AS9100 compliance through audit participation and internal system improvements.

• Translating customer requirements to internal product and manufacturing requirements.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related technical discipline.

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in quality engineering.

• Proven track record of ownership in product or subsystem-level quality within aerospace or similar high-reliability environments.

• Expertise in AS9100, root cause analysis, and statistical quality methods.

• Hands-on experience with inspection planning, quality assurance planning, PLM tools, and ERP tools.

• Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with complex electromechanical systems.

• Knowledge of FAI, APQP, and PPAP methodologies.

• Familiarity with digital quality tools and automated inspection systems.

• Proficiency with HighQA, Windchill, Inductive Automation’s Ignition, and Odoo.

Work Environment

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On-site position at our manufacturing facility with remote flexibility 1-day per week. Relocation assistance offered as needed.

Colorado law requires us to tell you the base compensation range of this role, which is $105,000 - $130,000, determined by your education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities. The salary range for this role is intentionally wide as we are evaluating individuals based on their unique experience and abilities to fit our needs. Most importantly, we are excited to meet you, and see if you are a great fit for our team. What we can’t quantify for you are the exciting challenges, supportive team, and amazing culture we enjoy.

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.