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Engine Programmer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Ursa Major

Chief Engineer, Vehicle

Berthoud, CO · On-site

$175K - $230K/yr

Ensure propulsion (Draper engine) is fully integrated into the vehicle system with appropriate margins, interfaces, and operational envelopes. Systems Engineering & Integration * Lead vehicle-level ...

Ursa Major

Chief Engineer, Vehicle

Longmont, CO · On-site

$175K - $230K/yr

Ensure propulsion (Draper engine) is fully integrated into the vehicle system with appropriate margins, interfaces, and operational envelopes. Systems Engineering & Integration * Lead vehicle-level ...

Boom Supersonic

Software Engineer, Embedded

Centennial, CO · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

Boom is developing the Symphony supersonic engine, which powers the Overture supersonic airliner ... Establish strong software engineering practices including version control, unit testing, and ...

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All JobsEngine Programmer JobsEngine Programmer Jobs in Colorado

Engine Programmer information

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$12

$41

$72

How much do engine programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for engine programmer in Colorado is $41.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.07 and $54.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does an engine programmer typically collaborate with other departments, such as graphics and gameplay teams, during development?

Engine programmers frequently work closely with both graphics and gameplay teams to ensure that the underlying technology supports creative and performance goals. This involves regular meetings to discuss feature requirements, debugging sessions to resolve integration issues, and ongoing feedback loops to optimize engine components for specific project needs. Clear communication and a collaborative mindset are essential, as engine programmers often translate high-level design or visual ideas into efficient, maintainable code. This cross-functional teamwork is key to delivering smooth, visually impressive, and responsive gameplay experiences.

What is the difference between Engine Programmer vs Graphics Programmer?

AspectEngine ProgrammerGraphics Programmer
Primary FocusDeveloping and maintaining game engine systemsCreating and optimizing rendering techniques and visual effects
Required SkillsProgramming, systems architecture, physics, AIGraphics APIs, shader programming, rendering algorithms
Work EnvironmentGame studios, software companiesGame studios, visual effects companies
Common UsageUsed across various game genres for core systemsFocused on visual fidelity and rendering performance

Engine Programmers develop the core systems that power a game, while Graphics Programmers focus on visual rendering and effects. Both roles require strong programming skills and often overlap, but they specialize in different aspects of game development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Engine Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Engine Programmer, you need strong proficiency in C++ programming, computer graphics, algorithms, and mathematics, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Experience with game engines (such as Unreal or Unity), version control systems, and graphics APIs like DirectX or OpenGL is typically required. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for tackling complex technical challenges and collaborating with other developers. These skills ensure the development of efficient, high-quality game engines that support innovative gameplay and performance.

What are engine programmers?

Engine programmers are specialized software developers who design, build, and maintain the core systems that power video games and other interactive applications. They work on the underlying technology, known as the 'game engine,' enabling graphics rendering, physics, audio, and other essential features. Engine programmers often optimize performance, ensure cross-platform compatibility, and collaborate closely with other developers to create smooth and immersive experiences. Their work is crucial for enabling artists and game designers to bring their creative visions to life efficiently.
What are popular job titles related to Engine Programmer jobs in Colorado? For Engine Programmer jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Engine Programmer jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Engine Programmer jobs in Colorado are:
Engine Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Engine Programmer job openings in Colorado as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,471 per year, or $41.6 per hour.
Chief Engineer, Vehicle

Chief Engineer, Vehicle

Ursa Major

Berthoud, CO • On-site

$175K - $230K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

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

Ursa Major is seeking a Chief Engineer, Vehicle to serve as the technical authority and architectural owner for the Draper Engine Vehicle program. This individual will be accountable for the end-to-end vehicle technical baseline, ensuring the successful integration of propulsion, structures, avionics, GNC, thermal, and mission systems into a flight-worthy, scalable vehicle solution.

As Chief Engineer, you will provide technical leadership across the full lifecycle—from requirements definition and trade studies through design, integration, test, and flight operations—while partnering closely with Program Management, Manufacturing, Mission Assurance, and Business Development. This role is critical to delivering reliable, high-performance systems to government and commercial customers on aggressive schedules.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Authority & Architecture

  • Own and maintain the vehicle system architecture, technical baseline, and configuration for the Draper Engine Vehicle.
  • Serve as the final technical decision authority for vehicle-level design trades, requirements allocation, and risk acceptance.
  • Ensure propulsion (Draper engine) is fully integrated into the vehicle system with appropriate margins, interfaces, and operational envelopes.

Systems Engineering & Integration

  • Lead vehicle-level systems engineering, including requirements flow-down, interface control, verification & validation (V&V), and configuration management.
  • Oversee cross-disciplinary integration across:
    • Propulsion
    • Structures & airframe
    • GNC
    • Avionics & software
    • Thermal & TPS
    • Mission & flight systems
  • Chair technical reviews including SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, and FRR.

Program Execution Support

  • Partner with Program Management to balance performance, cost, schedule, and risk.
  • Support proposal efforts, customer technical interchange meetings (TIMs), and design reviews with government and commercial customers.
  • Identify technical risks early and lead mitigation plans through test, analysis, or design iteration.

Test, Qualification & Flight Readiness

  • Define and approve vehicle-level test strategies including ground testing, qualification, and flight test.
  • Ensure data-driven decisions using analysis, modeling, and test results.
  • Provide technical sign-off for vehicle readiness and flight authorization.

Team Leadership & Mentorship

  • Provide technical leadership and mentorship to subsystem leads and senior engineers.
  • Foster a culture of engineering rigor, accountability, and rapid execution.
  • Help scale engineering processes and standards as programs mature.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field (Master's or PhD strongly preferred).
  • 12+ years of experience in aerospace vehicle development, including system-level ownership.
  • Prior experience serving as a Chief Engineer, Lead Systems Engineer, or Vehicle Architect on a flight vehicle or missile system.
  • Deep understanding of propulsion integration, vehicle dynamics, and system trades.
  • Demonstrated experience leading vehicles through design reviews, test campaigns, and flight readiness.
  • Ability to clearly communicate complex technical decisions to executive leadership and customers.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and stay flexible based on customer demands and company priorities along with daily firefighting
  • Ability to make sound technical decisions under schedule and performance pressure
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering or related field
  • Experience with hypersonic vehicles, missiles, launch vehicles, or advanced propulsion systems.
  • Familiarity with thermal, structural, and aero integration challenges in hypersonic regimes
  • Experience in design and analysis of fluids systems
  • Experience operating in ISO 9001 or AS9100 certified organizations
  • Experience with SMC-S-016 Test Requirements
  • Background working with DoD, DARPA, or classified programs.
  • Familiarity with model-based systems engineering (MBSE) tools.
  • Experience scaling a vehicle program from prototype to production.
  • Active or ability to obtain a U.S. security clearance.

Colorado law requires us to tell you the base compensation range of this role, which is $175,000 - $230,000, 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

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.
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.