Associate Degree In Instrumentation Jobs in Fort Collins, CO

Senior Test Technician - Solid Rocket Motors 

This position will support our Galeton and Berthoud Test Facilities 

Ursa Major is seeking a senior-level, hands-on, and safety-conscious Test Technician with a dual focus: 

1. Lead test site infrastructure and equipment buildout and maintenance, and 

1. Executing static fire campaigns for solid rocket motors with precision and urgency. 

This role is ideal for an experienced process, fabrication, or GSE technician with a strong foundation in industrial maintenance, mechanical systems, and infrastructure buildout - who also plays a direct, high-impact role in test execution. You'll work with hazardous, energetic materials and high-performance propulsion systems in a fast-paced, outdoor, and dynamic environment. Success demands a disciplined approach to safety, technical excellence, and the ability to perform under pressure. If you're mechanically inclined and thrive in high-stakes, fast-moving settings, this role offers a direct path to contributing to cutting-edge rocket engine development through hands-on test operations.  

Key Responsibilities 

Test Infrastructure Build & Industrial Maintenance 

• Lead the build-out, modification, and maintenance of test stands, fluid panels, control systems, mechanical fixtures, and facility utilities. 

• Set the tone for cleanliness, organization, and readiness standards of tools, workshops, and test stands to ensure safe and efficient operations 

• Fabricate or modify mechanical hardware, fixtures, and tooling to support test activities 

• Operate hand tools, power tools, lifts, and other heavy equipment including (lifts, mills, welders, forklifts) etc. to assemble or disassemble test infrastructure 

• Perform regular maintenance, calibration, and repair of support equipment, sensors, plumbing, and tooling; troubleshoot faults that impact test readiness 

• Support facility upgrades and layout planning alongside engineering and test operations 

Test Preparation & Execution 

• Operate and maintain test systems, including mechanical structures, fluid systems, instrumentation, and data acquisition hardware 

• Collaborate with engineers to prepare for static fires by installing test articles, ground support equipment, and instrumentation, owning tools and special equipment prep 

• Execute test procedures, perform system checks, and troubleshoot real-time issues during testing 

• Document test results, inspections, and maintenance logs in a clear and traceable format 

Safety Discipline 

• Hold the broader team accountable to high safety standards 

• Demonstrate extreme attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols when handling, staging, and integrating energetic materials and rocket motor components 

• Attend safety briefings and lead hazard identification and mitigation efforts 

• Maintain all required training and certifications, including explosives safety 

Continuous Improvement & Cross-Functional Support 

• Set the tone for safety, precision, and professionalism on-site; lead by example and coach less experienced technicians and engineers. 

• Participate in design reviews and readiness meetings to represent infrastructure and technician perspectives. 

• Contribute to hazard reviews, mitigations, and compliance for test and fabrication work. 

• Provide occasional support to build support equipment or integration tasks outside the test area 

Required Qualifications 

• High school diploma or equivalent 

• 4-8 years of experience in test operations, industrial/facility maintenance, or mechanical fabrication in aerospace, defense, or heavy industry 

• Strong skills in mechanical systems, piping/plumbing, welding, or fabrication 

• Proven ability to troubleshoot and resolve infrastructure or GSE issues independently 

• Ability to obtain explosive permits from the ATF and Colorado Department of Labor and Employment 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Associate's degree in Engineering Technology, Industrial Maintenance, or Mechanical disciplines 

• Experience supporting energetic systems or propulsion testing environments 

• Competency with instrumentation and controls (e.g., thermocouples, pressure transducers, DAQ) 

• Certifications: HAZMAT, OSHA 30, rigging, forklift, aerial lift, or crane operations 

• Familiarity with CAD, work order tracking systems, and maintenance documentation tools 

Physical & Work Environment Requirements 

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physically demanding work in outdoor and industrial environments 

• Comfortable working around high-pressure systems, noise, hazardous, and energetic materials 

• Willingness to work occasional off-shift or weekend hours based on operational need 

• Valid driver's license required 

Colorado law requires us to tell you the base compensation range of this role, which is $35.70 - $44.25, 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 Non-Exempt