ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Cfd Analysis Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

TEL

Process Engineer III

Chaska, MN

$78K - $110K/yr

Familiarity with finite element analysis (FEA), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), or particle-in-cell (PIC) plasma simulations. * Programming experience in Python, MATLAB, or similar scientific ...

TEL

Process Engineer III

Chaska, MN · On-site

$78K - $110K/yr

Familiarity with finite element analysis (FEA), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), or particle-in-cell (PIC) plasma simulations. * Programming experience in Python, MATLAB, or similar scientific ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCfd Analysis JobsCfd Analysis Jobs in Minnesota

Cfd Analysis information

See Minnesota salary details

$10.8K

$91.1K

$129.3K

How much do cfd analysis jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for cfd analysis in Minnesota is $91,100.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,700.00 and $107,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CFD Analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a CFD Analyst, you need a strong background in fluid dynamics, numerical methods, and a relevant engineering or physics degree. Experience with CFD software such as ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, or COMSOL, and proficiency in programming languages like Python or MATLAB, are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate complex results effectively help set top candidates apart. These skills ensure accurate simulations, efficient problem resolution, and clear communication of insights to drive engineering decisions.

What is CFD analysis?

CFD analysis, or Computational Fluid Dynamics analysis, is a method used to simulate and study the behavior of fluids (liquids and gases) and their interactions with surfaces using computer-based numerical analysis. It helps engineers and scientists predict how fluids will move and interact under various conditions, enabling them to optimize designs in industries like aerospace, automotive, civil engineering, and more. CFD analysis can model complex phenomena such as turbulence, heat transfer, and chemical reactions, providing valuable insights that are difficult or expensive to obtain through physical experiments.

What is the difference between Cfd Analysis vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectCfd AnalysisMechanical Engineer
Primary FocusFluid dynamics and heat transfer simulationsDesign, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems
Required SkillsComputational fluid dynamics, software proficiency (e.g., ANSYS Fluent)Mechanical design, materials, thermodynamics
Work EnvironmentEngineering firms, research labs, aerospace, automotiveManufacturing, product design, R&D
CertificationsOften requires engineering degrees, CFD certificationsMechanical engineering degree, PE license (optional)

While Cfd Analysis specialists focus on fluid flow and thermal simulations, Mechanical Engineers have a broader role in designing and analyzing mechanical systems. Both roles require engineering degrees, but Cfd Analysis is more specialized in computational modeling, whereas Mechanical Engineering covers a wider range of mechanical design and analysis tasks.

What are some common challenges faced by CFD Analysts when working on multidisciplinary engineering projects?

CFD Analysts often encounter challenges when collaborating with teams from other engineering disciplines, such as mechanical or electrical engineering, due to differences in technical language and project priorities. Integrating CFD results with structural or thermal analyses requires clear communication and careful planning to ensure compatibility of data and assumptions. Additionally, managing tight project deadlines while maintaining high simulation accuracy can be demanding. Overcoming these challenges involves strong teamwork, proactive communication, and a thorough understanding of the broader engineering context.
What are popular job titles related to Cfd Analysis jobs in Minnesota? For Cfd Analysis jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cfd Analysis jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Cfd Analysis jobs in Minnesota are:
Cfd Analysis jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cfd Analysis job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,100 per year, or $43.8 per hour.
Principal CFD Engineer - Hydrodynamic Systems

Principal CFD Engineer - Hydrodynamic Systems

Verterra Energy

New Brighton, MN

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Role Overview

You will lead computational fluid dynamics modeling efforts for Verterra's turbine systems and related platforms.

You will define modeling strategy, boundary conditions, mesh approach, turbulence models, and validation methods. You will work directly with mechanical and test engineers to ensure CFD results inform blade geometry, structural loads, fatigue expectations, and overall system efficiency.

We are open to full-time, part-time, or 1099 arrangements for the right subject matter expert.

Core Responsibilities

Hydrodynamic Modeling

  • Develop and execute 3D CFD models of rotating turbine systems in open-water environments
  • Model turbulent, unsteady, and cyclic flow conditions
  • Support blade and housing geometry optimization
  • Evaluate flow separation, wake behavior, cavitation risk, and efficiency tradeoffs

Modeling Strategy & Validation

  • Define appropriate turbulence models and simulation fidelity
  • Develop mesh strategies for rotating machinery and complex geometries
  • Establish convergence and validation criteria
  • Correlate CFD outputs with experimental data from flume and field testing
  • Identify when simulation assumptions break down

Load & System Integration

  • Extract pressure and force distributions for structural loading analysis
  • Support fatigue and cyclic loading estimation
  • Work cross-functionally with structural and mechanical engineers
  • Translate fluid results into manufacturable design recommendations

Environmental & Operational Conditions

  • Model debris interaction scenarios and flow disturbance cases
  • Evaluate performance in variable flow velocities
  • Understand long-term exposure considerations in real water systems

Documentation & Decision Support

  • Present results in clear, engineering-driven formats
  • Identify design tradeoffs and uncertainty bands
  • Support design reviews with defensible analysis
  • Document modeling assumptions and limitations

Minimum Qualifications

  • 8+ years of professional CFD experience (12+ for Principal level)
  • Demonstrated experience modeling external fluid flow systems
  • Experience with rotating machinery or turbine systems
  • Deep understanding of turbulence modeling and numerical stability
  • Experience correlating CFD results to physical testing
  • Ability to independently define modeling strategy

Preferred Qualifications

  • Marine, riverine, or open-water flow modeling experience
  • Experience with cavitation prediction
  • Experience modeling debris interaction or multiphase flow
  • Experience supporting hardware programs from early prototype through validation
  • Experience working in small, engineering-driven teams

What Success Looks Like

  • CFD informs geometry decisions early and reduces physical iteration cycles
  • Simulation results correlate closely with flume or field testing
  • Load predictions meaningfully support structural design
  • Design decisions are made based on physics, not aesthetics
  • Modeling assumptions are documented and defensible

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Company-paid life, disability, and basic protection
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Unlimited paid time off + 2 weeks sick and safe leave
  • 7 company-paid holidays: New Year's Day (January 1), Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, the Friday after Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day
  • Stocked kitchen

Equal opportunity

Apply