Principal Materials 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. Our products and technologies require an extraordinary team. A team that will mold tomorrow’s technologies while deploying today’s best. We are an intrinsically motivated team that has a passion for solving problems and empowering each other every day to develop our skills, knowing that there is always room for growth. As a Principal Materials & Processes Engineer at Ursa Major , you are a recognized technical leader responsible for shaping and advancing materials and processes strategies across major programs. You combine deep technical expertise with broad project and cross-disciplinary influence, acting as the go-to authority for complex materials challenges. Principal Engineers at Ursa Major guide high-impact engineering decisions, set and uphold technical standards, mentor staff, and drive continuous improvement across teams. You enable the success of multiple products and initiatives through technical leadership, proactive problem-solving, and by fostering a culture of excellence in everything related to materials and processes. Responsibilities: Act as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) on materials selection and processes for critical aerospace propulsion applications. Lead complex material and process development projects, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. Oversee the development, review, and approval of material and process specifications, ensuring alignment with design and aerospace industry standards. Optimize existing processes and conduct trades for in-house development versus outsourcing (e.g., additive manufacturing, brazing, machining, joining, etc.). Conduct high-level materials failure investigations, own material-related branches of root cause analysis, and recommend corrective actions. Define the technology roadmap for materials, advancing aerospace materials and manufacturing strategies. Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including design, manufacturing, and quality, to solve technical challenges across the product lifecycle. Mentor and coach senior and junior engineers to ensure the effective application of materials and processes best practices. Required Qualifications: Master’s degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Aerospace Engineering, or related field and 8+ years of professional experience in aerospace or materials engineering roles. Candidates with a bachelor’s degree and extensive relevant experience will also be considered. Expertise in metallic materials (e.g., stainless steels, nickel, titanium, aluminum alloys) and advanced manufacturing processes (e.g., additive manufacturing, casting, forging, brazing, or welding). Demonstrated experience with root cause analysis and material failure investigations in production environments. Proficiency in material testing methods, aerospace materials standards (ASTM, AMS), and quality systems (AS9100 or NADCAP). Strong leadership and project management capabilities, including prioritizing and executing in fast-paced environments. Ability to collaborate cross-functionally, communicate effectively, and make data-driven decisions to support business objectives. Preferred Experience: Propulsion systems experience, with a focus on materials for high-temperature or high-stress environments. Hands-on experience with additive manufacturing techniques, such as laser powder bed fusion, and process qualification. Expertise in joining methods, such as TIG welding, EB welding, and brazing. Experience establishing allowables and qualification frameworks for aerospace materials, including additive metals. Hands-on laboratory experience with metallography, material characterization to