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Lead Propulsion Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

True Anomaly

Staff Propulsion Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$155K - $260K/yr

YOUR MISSION As a Staff Propulsion Development Engineer at True Anomaly, you will be responsible ... Demonstrated ability to work and lead a multidisciplinary team of engineers in a fast-paced ...

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Lead Propulsion Engineer information

What does a lead propulsion engineer do?

A Lead Propulsion Engineer oversees the design, development, and testing of propulsion systems used in vehicles such as rockets, aircraft, or spacecraft. They lead a team of engineers, coordinate project schedules, and ensure that propulsion systems meet performance, safety, and regulatory requirements. Their responsibilities often include analyzing test data, troubleshooting technical issues, and collaborating with other engineering teams to integrate propulsion with other subsystems. Lead Propulsion Engineers play a critical role in advancing propulsion technology and ensuring mission success.

How does a lead propulsion engineer typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams during a spacecraft development project?

A Lead Propulsion Engineer frequently works alongside systems engineers, avionics specialists, structural engineers, and project managers to ensure the propulsion systems integrate seamlessly with the overall spacecraft design. This collaboration often involves regular cross-functional meetings, resolving integration challenges, and aligning propulsion system requirements with mission objectives. Effective communication and coordination are essential, as propulsion decisions can impact other subsystems and the mission timeline. This role often requires balancing technical leadership with facilitating teamwork across diverse engineering disciplines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead propulsion engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Propulsion Engineer, you need deep expertise in propulsion system design, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and significant industry experience. Familiarity with analysis software (such as ANSYS or MATLAB), CAD tools, and propulsion system testing protocols is essential, and certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) can be advantageous. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills are crucial for guiding teams and collaborating across disciplines. These skills are vital to ensure safe, innovative, and efficient propulsion system development in complex aerospace projects.

What is the difference between Lead Propulsion Engineer vs Propulsion Engineer?

AspectLead Propulsion EngineerPropulsion Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering; often with leadership experienceBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, manages projects, collaborates with cross-functional departmentsDesigns, analyzes, and tests propulsion systems under supervision
Industry UsageUsed in aerospace, defense, and space industries for senior technical leadershipEntry to mid-level roles in similar industries focusing on technical tasks

The main difference between a Lead Propulsion Engineer and a Propulsion Engineer lies in leadership responsibilities and project management. The Lead Propulsion Engineer oversees teams, manages project timelines, and coordinates with other departments, while the Propulsion Engineer primarily focuses on technical design and analysis tasks. Both roles require similar technical credentials, but the lead position involves additional leadership and strategic responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Lead Propulsion Engineer jobs in Colorado?

For Lead Propulsion Engineer jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lead Propulsion Engineer jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Lead Propulsion Engineer jobs in Colorado are:

Lead Propulsion Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Propulsion Engineer job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Propulsion Engineer, Combustion Devices

Ursa Major

Berthoud, CO • On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 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. 

Ursa Major's teams move fast and do a lot with little. We are looking for a skilled, fast-learning individual who will serve as a central member of the team and take immediate ownership of their system as a responsible engineer. This role will be part of the technical organization, responsible for clean sheet designs as well as modification to a variety of propulsion hardware. All candidates will be expected to have ownership from the initial concept phase to a production-ready design and may need to support multiple programs simultaneously.

Primary Responsibilities

  • Ownership of Engine Combustion Device Hardware (injectors, thrust chamber, nozzles, catalyst beds) through entire product lifecycle
  • Design modifications of existing components and prototypes to increase performance, improve manufacturability, or resolve limitations
  • Maintain and improve combustor performance models
  • Collaborate with team members to write, review, and update work instructions for the assembly of components as well as establish appropriate acceptance and qualification tests
  • Assembly and testing of first article prototypes
  • Collaborate with the manufacturing, analysis, and test teams to reduce part-to-part variation and discrepancies

Qualifications:

Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field
  • Experience in design, test, or analysis of rocket engine injectors, chambers, or nozzles through club activity, internships, or full time work
  • Fundamental understanding of closed-cycle rocket engine operating principles
  • Proficiency with computer aided design and drafting
  • Demonstrated ability to own hardware through the production lifecycle
  • Working knowledge of and hands-on experience with fluid, mechanical, and electrical systems
  • Desire to take ownership of multiple projects at once
  • Excellent problem solving, task management, and communication skills

Desired Experience: 

  • Demonstrated proficiency with basic principles of design for additive manufacturing
  • Coordination with analysis and lead engineers to quickly mature designs
  • Experience leading and documenting design reviews to communicate design decisions and trades
  • Experience designing, testing, and analyzing catalyst beds
  • Experience with CFD and/or structural and thermal analysis using Ansys or equivalent
  • Experience with Siemens NX CAD programs and Windchill PLM software
  • Experience with geometric dimensioning and tolerancing per ASME Y14.5
  • Strong understanding of industry standards and requirements
  • Liquid propellant rocket engine design, test, or analysis

Colorado law requires us to tell you the base compensation range of this role, which is $80,000 - $100,000, 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.
 

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