Senior Test Technician - Solid Rocket MotorsUrsa Major is seeking a senior-level, hands-on, and safety-conscious Test Technician with a dual focus:
- Lead test site infrastructure and equipment buildout and maintenance, and
- 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
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. No outside recruiters, please.