Mechanical Engineer 1
Date: Sep 16, 2026
Location: Centennial, CO, US, 80112
Company: United Launch Alliance
Requisition ID: 2136
Standard Weekly Hours: 40.00
Location: ULA - Denver
Relocation: Yes- Relocation may be available
Travel Requirements: 10%
At ULA, success comes through the efforts of a strong, united team.
Thanks for your interest in United Launch Alliance, the world's most experienced and reliable space launch company! Successfully launching more than 155 consecutive missions with 100% mission success doesn't happen by accident. It's a testament to the commitment and dedication of our team of rocket scientists and support employees combined with the systems and processes we use to pull them together. As a ULA employee, you'll have the opportunity to grow in your career while working in a team-oriented culture that combines technology, innovation, ingenuity and a commitment to the extraordinary. Whether you are in college just launching your career, or, have experience and want to come work with the best rocket team in the world, our unshakable unity yields stronger solutions and better results as we carry out our mission to save lives, explore the universe, and connect the world. Our team is excited to meet you!
Job Overview & Responsibilities
Job Description
• Candidate will serve as a floating Mechanical Design Engineer supporting various development projects aimed at improving Vulcan/Centaur vehicle performance, cost efficiency, and mission capability enhancements.
• Tasks will include:
○ Creating and/or revising engineering models and drawings for structural and mechanical components and assemblies that meet launch vehicle requirements.
○ Performing lower-level trade studies to optimize designs for manufacturing, producibility, and performance in fast‑paced development environments.
○ Identifying barriers and defining solutions to complex engineering problems as they arise.
○ Supporting root cause identification and implementation of engineering corrective actions when needed.
Required Education
Bachelor
Required Years of Experience
None required
Basic Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering is required; a degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering is preferred.
• Ability to learn quickly, seek feedback, and operate independently.
• Fundamental understanding of Mechanical Design and first-order Structural Analysis principles.
• Strong time‑management skills and self‑initiative.
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) with the ability to work effectively with a wide range of team members, including customers and subcontractors.
• Familiarity with CAD design and ability to learn complex modeling techniques.
Preferred Qualifications
• Experience with Siemens Teamcenter.
• Project integration skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools.
• Experience with structural/mechanical engineering design, development, and qualification.
• Knowledge of structural analysis, including basic sizing, failure modes, load paths, and material selection for common aerospace materials and hardware.
• Familiarity with design and fabrication methods, and ability to assess and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and industry/government standards.
• Configuration management and engineering release experience.
• Experience with geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
• Siemens NX (Unigraphics) proficiency.
Summary Salary Range (for ULA - Denver only): $67,895.00 - $113,159.00
Please note that the salary information shown above is a general guideline only. Salaries are based upon a candidate's experience and qualifications, as well as internal equity, market and business considerations. Employees may be eligible for a discretionary annual bonus in addition to base pay.
What makes ULA different?
Because we understand launch success comes through the collective efforts of a team, we seek the best to join us. We value ethics, ingenuity, engagement and professional development for employees at all levels.
We offer our employees competitive pay and benefits including:
- 401(k) match plus an additional employer contribution
- Discretionary annual incentive bonus for eligible employees
- Generous paid time off
- Flexible work environments
Additionally, most salaried ULA team members work a "9/80 schedule," meaning they enjoy every other Friday off.
Benefits and work schedules may vary for union-represented hourly positions and are described in the applicable collective bargaining agreement.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Security Clearance / International Traffic In Arms Regulations (ITAR). This position requires use of information which is subject to the International Traffic In Arms Regulations (ITAR). Therefore, all applicants must be U.S. Persons as defined in ITAR 22 CFR 120.62 (e.g., U.S. Citizen, Lawful Permanent Resident (Green Card holder) or protected individual. See 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20) and 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) for additional information).
ULA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.
ULA is a participant in the federal E-Verify Program. Posters in PDF format pertaining to this program can be accessed by clicking on the links identified below. E-Verify Participation poster (English / Spanish) and Right to Work Poster (English / Spanish).
Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act requires covered employees to follow a post selection notification process. A hired candidate may opt out of this process by notifying the hiring manager in writing at the time the offer is accepted
Nearest Major Market: Denver