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Cfd Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Mid-Level Thermal Engineer

Crystal City, VA · On-site

$130K - $155K/yr

Position Title: Mid-Level Thermal Engineer Position Description: Protingent Staffing has an ... Apply Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) methods to analyze aerothermal loads, heating environments ...

Experience with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). * Knowledge ... Basic programming skills (e.g., MATLAB, Python) for data analysis and system modeling. * Experience ...

Showing results 21-40

Cfd Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$10.9K

$92.2K

$130.9K

How much do cfd engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for cfd engineer in Virginia is $92,217.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,800.00 and $109,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cfd Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectCfd EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related fields; proficiency in CFD softwareBachelor's in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering; often includes CFD knowledge
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, aerospace, automotive, energy sectors; focus on fluid dynamics simulationsManufacturing, product design, HVAC; broader engineering tasks including mechanics and thermodynamics
Industry UsagePrimarily in industries requiring fluid flow analysisWider industry application including structural and thermal systems

While both roles require a background in mechanical engineering and CFD software, Cfd Engineers specialize in fluid dynamics simulations, whereas Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope including mechanics, thermodynamics, and design. Cfd Engineers focus more on computational analysis, while Mechanical Engineers may handle a wider range of engineering tasks.

Are CFD engineers in demand?

CFD engineers are in demand in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and energy, where computational fluid dynamics simulations are essential for product design and optimization. The role requires strong skills in fluid mechanics, programming, and simulation software like ANSYS or OpenFOAM, and employment prospects are generally stable due to ongoing technological advancements and engineering needs.

What is a CFD engineer?

As a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) engineer, your responsibilities are to use CFD formulas to predict fluid flows and heat transfers. You use software applications such as OpenFOAM or Gerris to compute the finite element method and the finite volume method, which use partial differential equations to create two- or three-dimensional models and simulations. Your job duties include analyzing problems, building models, and proposing solutions. Your experience makes you a valuable part of research and development teams in the mechanical and chemical engineering industries as well as the automobile, aerospace, and aeronautical industries.

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

To thrive as a CFD Engineer, you need a strong background in fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and numerical methods, usually supported by a degree in mechanical, aerospace, or chemical engineering. Expertise in CFD software such as ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, or STAR-CCM+, along with programming skills in Python or MATLAB, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and clear communication help you interpret complex data and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for delivering accurate simulations, optimizing designs, and supporting engineering decisions in industries where fluid behavior is critical.

What are some common challenges CFD engineers face when working on complex simulation projects?

CFD Engineers often encounter challenges related to balancing simulation accuracy with computational resources and time constraints. Handling large and intricate geometries can lead to long computation times and may require advanced meshing strategies or high-performance computing. Additionally, accurately modeling boundary conditions and physical phenomena, especially in multiphase or turbulent flows, demands a deep understanding of fluid dynamics and software capabilities. Effective collaboration with design, testing, and product teams is also crucial to validate simulation results and implement practical solutions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cfd Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Cfd Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Cfd Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Cfd Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Cfd Engineer jobs in VA? For Cfd Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Cfd Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,217 per year, or $44.3 per hour.

$85K - $116K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

As the need for nuclear energy grows, the future couldn’t be brighter. Join our vital mission to create lasting solutions for our planet’s greatest challenges. In this role, you are ready to shape the future of clean energy and make a long-lasting global impact. With us, anticipate engaging and challenging projects that deliver innovative solutions and value-added technologies helping power more than 38 million North American homes.

The position will support the Thermal-Hydraulics Team within Framatome's Installed Based Products and Engineering organization.  Work alongside industry experts in our Installed Base Products and Engineering team, as we are leading many exciting initiatives, such as advanced reactor technology design, development of digital twins, operating fleet equipment modernization, and driving industry innovation through new product developments.  The Engineer is responsible for thermal-hydraulics analyses for operating plants, as well as advanced reactors / small modular reactors. Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
1. Under direct supervision, performs standard engineering work requiring application of established techniques and procedures to carry out tasks.
2. Planning / conducting a complete task or portion of a larger project under direction of more experienced staff.
3. With guidance, provide technical support for thermal-hydraulics analyses of nuclear plants.
4. Provides input to technical proposals and engineering advice as needed.


  • Performs non-standard engineering, varied engineering, and new-to-you assignments typically in areas of design, development, analysis, evaluation, testing, preparation of specifications, execution of field tasks and resolution of field problems and resolution of quality events.  
  • Receives minimal assistance and instruction and works autonomously on most assignments and solutions.  
  • Ensures compliance with government regulations, organization, industry and customer engineering standards.  
  • Independently evaluates, selects and applies a variety of technical techniques, procedures, and criteria using judgement in making adaptations and modifications for tasks not previously performed.  
  • Continues to develop knowledge of organization, processes and customers.  
  • Works on special projects, as directed.  
  • Provides suggestions for improving processes and implementing process improvements.  
  • Maintain a safety mindset.

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering
    • Dependent on the position, degrees in Physics, Engineering Technology and Engineering Science may also be accepted. 
  • Minimum of 3 years of related experience.
  • Knowledge of related engineering standards, techniques and criteria.  
  • Good communication skills to comprehend and convey detailed technical data.
  • Ability to develop and maintain good interpersonal relationships; work collaboratively within a team environment.
  • Good problem identification and problem resolution skills.  
  • Displays informal leadership characteristics.  
  • Exhibits questioning attitude and practices self-checking.  
  • Advanced level of specific software tools (CAD, FEA, CFD) and programming skills. 
  • Plants systems design and analysis, including experience with software such as ANSYS-Fluent (CFD), AFT Fathom, RELAP5.
  • Ability to analyze customer's technical specification and apply appropriate product solutions to meet the customer's expectation in a cost-effective and timely manner.
  • Nuclear Industry experience and/or previous utility plant experience.
  • Familiarity with ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code.

Total Rewards Package         

  • Salary: $85,000- $116,000, and may also include annual incentives and performance bonuses. The base salary range is a guideline. Individual total compensation will vary based on factors such as qualifications, skill level, competencies and work location.
  • Health & Wellness: Multiple medical plan options, dental & vision coverage, life insurance, long- and short-term disability, and optional supplemental plans (critical illness, accident, hospital indemnity, dependent life).
  • Retirement: 401(k) with employer match.
  • Paid Time Off: Up to 3 weeks of vacation, 8 sick days, and 13 paid holidays annually.
  • Extra Perks: Lifestyle spending account, employer paid mental health support, education reimbursement, professional development opportunities, adoption assistance, parental leave, and employee assistance programs.

Framatome has been shaping the future of nuclear energy in the U.S. for more than 60 years. Framatome Inc. is headquartered in Lynchburg, Virginia, with more than 2,400+ employees across North America supporting nearly every nuclear plant in the nation.

From our facilities in Virginia, Washington, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and beyond, we deliver outage services, advanced nuclear fuel technologies, and next-gen reactor innovations that keep the lights on.

At Framatome, you will join a global team committed to creating reliable, carbon-free energy. Here, you can:

  • Solve complex nuclear challenges that directly impact the climate.
  • Build your career through technical fellowships, leadership roles, and global opportunities.
  • Do your best work in a culture that values safety, innovation, and well-being.

Framatome is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Offers are contingent on background check and drug screen (where applicable). Positions may involve access to information subject to U.S. export control regulations; applicants must meet eligibility requirements (see DOE 810 Appendix A).