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.
Position Summary
The General Counsel will serve as Ursa Major Technologies’ chief legal advisor, providing legal leadership across all areas of the business. This individual will manage legal risk, structure transactions, ensure regulatory compliance (particularly in the aerospace & defense sector), and work closely with executive leadership to support growth.
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as lead legal counsel for contracts, procurement, supplier/subcontractor agreements, licensing, intellectual property, indemnification, government contracts, and export controls (e.g., ITAR, EAR).
- Advise leadership on regulatory compliance and policy matters relevant to aerospace & defense; manage interface with relevant government agencies and regulatory authorities.
- Oversee internal policies and procedures to ensure ethical conduct, corporate compliance, risk management, and corporate governance.
- Support corporate transactions including mergers & acquisitions, joint ventures, strategic partnerships, financing, and equity issuances.
- Manage disputes, litigation, claims, and investigations; select, supervise, and manage outside counsel as needed.
- Advise on employment, labor law, safety, environmental, IP protection, and data privacy matters.
- Counsel on matters related to government contracting regulations (e.g., FAR, DFAR), export/import regulations, sanctions, and compliance with defense acquisition regulations.
- Provide strategic legal input into new product developments, technology transfer, R&D, and supply chain resilience.
- Maintain oversight of insurance, bonding, indemnities, liability, and intellectual property portfolio.
- Coach and mentor legal and compliance personnel; build legal capabilities aligned with corporate objectives.
Required Qualifications
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree (or equivalent) from an accredited law school.
- Admission to practice law in at least one U.S. state, with ability (or willingness) to be admitted in Colorado.
- A minimum of 15+ years of legal experience, with substantial experience in aerospace, defense, or regulated industries.
- Strong experience with government contracting, export control regulations (ITAR/EAR), and defense procurement structures.
- Proven track record managing complex contracts, corporate transactions, regulatory compliance, and litigation.
- Excellent judgment and ability to advise senior management on risk-based decision making.
- Demonstrated ability to balance legal risk with business objectives in fast-paced, mission-critical environments.
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior work in high technology, propulsion systems, aerospace manufacturing, or space systems.
- Experience with domestic/international joint ventures or cross-border transactions involving defense technologies.
- Proven leadership of legal/compliance functions in scale-up or high growth companies.
- Strong network with federal regulatory agencies (e.g., DoD, NASA, FAA) and understanding of government procurement / certifications.
- Military service (active duty or reserve) or prior experience working closely with military institutions or in national defense settings.
Colorado law requires us to tell you the base compensation range of this role, which is $375,000 - $415,000, determined by your education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities. The salary range for this role is intentionally wide as we are evaluating individuals based on their unique experience and abilities to fit our needs. Most importantly, we are excited to meet you, and see if you are a great fit for our team. What we can’t quantify for you are the exciting challenges, supportive team, and amazing culture we enjoy.
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.
Ursa Major Berthoud, Colorado, USA Office
Our one-of-a kind campus co-locates engineering, manufacturing, & testing operations, allowing for unmatched development time and the chance for employees, customers, and investors alike to experience rocket engine testing as a part of the normal work day.
Similar Jobs at Ursa Major
What you need to know about the Colorado Tech Scene
Key Facts About Colorado Tech
- Number of Tech Workers: 260,000; 8.5% of overall workforce (2024 CompTIA survey)
- Major Tech Employers: Lockheed Martin, Century Link, Comcast, BAE Systems, Level 3
- Key Industries: Software, artificial intelligence, aerospace, e-commerce, fintech, healthtech
- Funding Landscape: $4.9 billion in VC funding in 2024 (Pitchbook)
- Notable Investors: Access Venture Partners, Ridgeline Ventures, Techstars, Blackhorn Ventures
- Research Centers and Universities: Colorado School of Mines, University of Colorado Boulder, University of Denver, Colorado State University, Mesa Laboratory, Space Science Institute, National Center for Atmospheric Research, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Gottlieb Institute

