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Aerospace Computational Engineer information

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$42K

$108.6K

$165K

How much do aerospace computational engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace computational engineer in the United States is $108,638.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do Aerospace Computational Engineers typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams during a project?

Aerospace Computational Engineers often work closely with aerodynamics experts, structural engineers, software developers, and project managers to ensure that computational models accurately inform design decisions. They frequently participate in cross-functional meetings to align simulation results with experimental data and design requirements. Effective communication skills are essential, as they must translate complex computational findings into actionable insights for team members from different technical backgrounds. Collaboration tools and version control systems are commonly used to manage code and simulation files across the team.

What is the difference between Aerospace Computational Engineer vs Aerospace Systems Engineer?

AspectAerospace Computational EngineerAerospace Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or related fields; programming skillsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Systems Engineering, or related fields; systems integration knowledge
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, simulation centers, aerospace companiesDesign offices, project management, systems integration teams
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace R&D, simulation, and software developmentInvolved in system design, integration, and project oversight in aerospace projects

The Aerospace Computational Engineer focuses on developing simulations, algorithms, and computational models to analyze aerospace systems. In contrast, the Aerospace Systems Engineer oversees the integration and performance of entire aerospace systems. Both roles require strong technical skills, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ significantly.

What are Aerospace Computational Engineers?

Aerospace Computational Engineers are professionals who use advanced computational methods and software to solve complex problems in the design, analysis, and optimization of aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. They apply principles of fluid dynamics, structural analysis, thermodynamics, and computer science to create simulations and models that help predict the performance of aerospace vehicles. These engineers work closely with other engineering teams to ensure products are safe, efficient, and innovative, often using tools like computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and finite element analysis (FEA).

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aerospace Computational Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aerospace Computational Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, applied mathematics, and computational fluid dynamics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with simulation software such as ANSYS Fluent, MATLAB, and programming languages like Python or C++ is commonly required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication abilities distinguish top performers in this field. These skills are crucial for accurately modeling complex aerospace systems and collaborating effectively to develop innovative, high-performance solutions.
Infographic showing various Aerospace Computational Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 57% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 9% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,638 per year, or $52.2 per hour.
RESEARCH ENGINEER - SR. RESEARCH ENGINEER - Computational Combustion Engineer

RESEARCH ENGINEER - SR. RESEARCH ENGINEER - Computational Combustion Engineer

Southwest Research Institute - Fulltime

San Antonio, TX

$94K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Southwest Research Institute rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 57 rated research

Job description

Who We Are: The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of gas turbine combustion, air-breathing propulsion, industrial heat and power, and liquid propulsion. Our technologies are powering a cleaner future and advancing state-of-the-art propulsion systems for air and space flight. Objectives of this Role: Support the development, analysis, and testing of power generation and propulsion systems, with a specific focus on combustion applications.

Engage in the development of advanced computational models to explore complex combustion phenomena, contributing to cutting-edge research in thermofluids, power generation, and propulsion systems. Utilize expertise in heat transfer, fluid dynamics, gas dynamics, and combustion processes to optimize designs and improve performance in power generation and propulsion systems. Leverage state-of-the-art Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software, including Ansys Fluent, Converge, and OpenFOAM to simulate flow conditions and analyze combustion processes in power generation and propulsion systems.

Integrate experimental insights with simulation data to validate models and develop predictive capabilities for combustion processes in power generation and propulsion systems operating under extreme conditions. Daily and Monthly Responsibilities: Provide cross-disciplinary support to multiple projects within the field of combustion, focusing mainly on computational tasks. Conduct design, optimization, and validation of combustion processes using CFD.

Contribute to the design of combustion processes for power generation and propulsion systems. Assist in executing experimental test campaigns, including data acquisition, processing, and analysis, to support model validation. Be a problem solver that exercises creativity and independent judgement in developing approaches to address a wide range of technical challenges.

Requirements: Requires a Bachelors, Masters or a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related engineering degree. 5 years relevant professional experience required with Bachelors degree, 3 years relevant professional experience required with Masters degree, and 1 year of related experience required with PhD. 1-5 years: Demonstrated experience in CFD simulations of thermofluids and combustion processes.

Experience with supersonic and/or hypersonic flow simulations is preferred but not required. 1-5 years: Experience in computationally-aided design of propulsion and power generation systems. Experience in designing system components is also valued.

1-5 years: Demonstrated proficiency in using CFD software such as Ansys Fluent, Converge, STAR-CCM+, or OpenFOAM for simulating and analyzing combustion processes. Experience with additional simulation tools is preferred but not required. Experimental experience with combustion processes and mechanical design is highly desirable but not mandatory.

MS or PhD degrees in engineering are preferred, but not required. Relevant degrees will also be considered. A valid/clear driver's license is required.

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