Senior Thermal Ablation Analyst

The role

You will perform high-fidelity thermal analyses to ensure product performance and reliability. You will work with design, manufacturing, and test teams to support development, qualification, and production programs.

What you will do

• 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.
• Assess insulation performance, ablative material behavior, and thermal protection system effectiveness.
• 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.
• 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.

Nice to have

• 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

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

Before you apply

• Must be a U.S. Person (this includes U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents).
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance.

About the company

Ursa Major was founded to revolutionize how America and its allies access and apply high-performance propulsion. They design and deliver propulsion and defense systems for national security demands.