Research Lab Technician

Ursa Major seeks to address a critical shortfall in the U.S. industrial base and bring a new model to aerospace and defense systems: we design and manufacture the world’s leading propulsion systems for space, hypersonic applications, and missile systems. 

Our products and technologies require an extraordinary team – a team that will mold tomorrow’s technologies while deploying today’s best. We are a 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.

Laboratory Technician, Development

Position Overview:

We are looking for a skilled and research and development technician to support analysis of solid rocket motor production materials. The ideal candidate will have previous experience with building hardware, general electrical work, as well as a strong commitment to safety and quality. This role involves assisting in the setup, operation, and maintenance of equipment designated for lab scale experimentation. Room for expansion and growth into other areas is possible.

Key Responsibilities:

• Work cohesively with the solid rocket motor propellant development and analysis team to install, upkeep, and manage experimental and analytical hardware/ instrumentation.
• Assist in building hardware, data acquisition, and fiber optic lines for new experiments. 
• Assist in establishing experimental procedures and conduct experiments to collect quality data.
• Participate in analysis and results discussions/meetings. Assist in presenting relevant anomalies or issues and that may impact development efforts.
• Maintain detailed laboratory notation, adhere to analytical data management and governance best practices

Safety Compliance:

• Adhere to all safety protocols and procedures including proper handling of documents, explosive and hazardous materials, and laboratory housekeeping.
• Participate in safety briefings and training sessions to stay updated on best practices and safety regulations.
• Report any safety hazards or incidents immediately to the laboratory manager and/or Environmental Health and Safety and assist in incident investigations and corrective actions.

Maintenance:

• Assist in routine maintenance and calibration schedules for analytical instrumentation to ensure accuracy and reliability.
• Troubleshoot and resolve instrumentation issues, coordinate with vendors or internal teams for more complex issues.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Prepare and maintain detailed records of analytical procedures, metadata, anomalies, and results.
• Assist in the preparation of analytical characterization reports, including summarizing data and highlighting key findings.
• Ensure compliance with all documentation standards and quality control procedures.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Work closely with energetics development and production team, quality, and management to ensure prioritization of key objectives are reporting.
• Communicate effectively with team members; cross-functional and direct, to maintain efficiency and productivity.

Requirements:

• Experience: Preferred minimum of 2 years of experience in a chemistry, mechanical/materials testing, research laboratory performing, or relevant research and development facility.     
• Knowledge: Familiarity with general hardware and electrical systems.  Understanding of safety protocols for handling hazardous materials. Ability to read, assess, and follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Skills: Strong documentation and hygiene practices. The ability to think critically. Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite and data acquisitions systems. Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Other: Ability to work in a high-pace environment with a focus on safety and precision.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds and perform physical tasks related to test setups and equipment handling.
• Ability to work in environments with varying temperatures and conditions, including outdoor and controlled test environments.

Work Environment:

• The position involves working in office, test facilities, and laboratories which may include exposure to hazardous materials and conditions. Strict adherence to safety protocols and procedures is mandatory.

Colorado law requires us to tell you the base compensation range of this role, which is $26.50 - $33.20 per hour, 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