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Cfd Simulation Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

NextDeavor Inc.

Electromechanical Engineer II

Irvine, CA · On-site

$43.99 - $54.99/hr

Electromechanical Engineer II Full-time Irvine, CA Exclusive confidential search -- details shared ... Perform electromagnetic, thermal, and mechanical analysis using FEA/CFD simulation tools * Create ...

Inversion

Staff Aerothermal CFD Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$161K - $221K/yr

Successful candidates will have a background in DSMC simulation or familiarity with multi-physics ... Engineering, or an equivalent field. * Experience modifying CFD solvers or coupling them for multi ...

Zettalogix INC

Battery Thermal Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

Job: Battery Thermal Engineer Duration: 16 Months contract Location: Cupertino, CA- Open to ... Perform advanced Thermal/CFD simulations to evaluate and enhance understanding of the various ...

JetZero

Senior Aerodynamics Design Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$195K - $220K/yr

Conduct CFD simulations to assess aerodynamic performance under various conditions. * Develop ... Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field ...

Phihong USA Corp

Thermal Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$102K - $110K/yr

... CFD) simulation tool, and 3D & 2D CAD modeling tools. * Facilitate with the R&D team in planning ... Work with product engineer to optimize the thermal solution and go through qualification process to ...

Radiant Industries

Senior Thermal Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$139K - $224K/yr

Identify and implement CFD simulation best practices * Build automated workflows to expand ... Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, or similar field from an accredited institution. * 5+ ...

Radiant

Senior Thermal Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$139K - $224K/yr

Identify and implement CFD simulation best practices * Build automated workflows to expand ... Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, or similar field from an accredited institution. * 5+ ...

Radiant

Senior Thermal-Hydraulics Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$139K - $224K/yr

Identify and implement CFD simulation best practices * Build automated workflows to expand ... Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, or similar field from an accredited institution. * 5+ ...

Radiant

Senior Thermal Modeling Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$139K - $224K/yr

Identify and implement CFD simulation best practices. * Build automated workflows to expand ... Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, or similar field from an accredited institution. * 5+ ...

SpaceX

Software Engineer, Simulation

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

The Software Engineer, Simulation will develop and enhance the in-house multiphysics simulation ... CFD tools, meshing software, and CAD platforms for multiphysics simulations; contribute to ...

SpaceX

Software Engineer, Simulation

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

They are seeking a Software Engineer specializing in simulation to enhance their multiphysics ... CFD tools, meshing software, and CAD platforms for multiphysics simulations; contribute to ...

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All JobsCfd Simulation Engineer JobsCfd Simulation Engineer Jobs in California

Cfd Simulation Engineer information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$91.8K

$130.3K

How much do cfd simulation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for cfd simulation engineer in California is $91,796.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,400.00 and $108,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by CFD Simulation Engineers during project workflows?

CFD Simulation Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing complex geometries and ensuring mesh quality, which are crucial for accurate results. Balancing simulation accuracy with computational resources and run times can also be demanding, especially when deadlines are tight. Collaboration with design, testing, and manufacturing teams is essential to validate simulation results and integrate feedback, requiring strong communication and problem-solving skills. Staying updated with the latest software and modeling techniques is also important to optimize project outcomes.

What are CFD Simulation Engineers?

CFD Simulation Engineers are specialists who use Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software to analyze and predict fluid flow, heat transfer, and related phenomena in various engineering systems. They create digital models to simulate how gases and liquids move and interact with surfaces, helping to optimize designs in industries like automotive, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing. Their work supports product development, troubleshooting, and performance improvement by providing insights that would be difficult or costly to obtain through physical testing alone.

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

To thrive as a CFD Simulation Engineer, you need a solid background in fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and numerical methods, usually supported by an engineering degree. Proficiency in CFD software such as ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, or STAR-CCM+, along with experience in programming languages like Python or MATLAB, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and effective communication skills help you interpret results and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills are vital for accurately modeling complex flows, optimizing designs, and delivering reliable engineering solutions.

What is the difference between Cfd Simulation Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectCfd Simulation EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related engineering; proficiency in CFD softwareBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical or Industrial Engineering; CAD software skills
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, engineering firms, aerospace, automotive industriesProduct development, manufacturing, automotive, aerospace industries
Employer & Industry UsageDesigning fluid flow systems, optimizing aerodynamics, thermal analysisCreating mechanical components, assemblies, and product prototypes

The main difference is that a Cfd Simulation Engineer specializes in computational fluid dynamics to analyze fluid flow and heat transfer, while a Mechanical Design Engineer focuses on designing mechanical components and systems. Both roles require strong engineering fundamentals, but their focus areas and software tools differ.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cfd Simulation Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Cfd Simulation Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Cfd Simulation Engineer jobs in California? For Cfd Simulation Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cfd Simulation Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Cfd Simulation Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Cfd Simulation Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Cfd Simulation Engineer job openings:
Cfd Simulation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cfd Simulation Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $91,796 per year, or $44.1 per hour.
Sr. Engineer, Aerodynamics

Sr. Engineer, Aerodynamics

Virgin Galactic, Inc.

Tustin, CA • On-site

$108K - $166K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Virgin Galactic is seeking a Senior Aerodynamics and Flight Simulation Engineer with strong experience in flight dynamics modeling, trajectory simulation, and stability and control analysis. Guided by our values, "Safety Above All", we proactively manage the risks inherent in human spaceflight through our daily actions. Serve as the SME for Aerodynamic & Flight Simulation within the System Analysis team, owning technical depth in that domain while interfacing with adjacent disciplines across engineering. In this role, you will be a primary contributor to the development and maintenance of simulation tools that support trajectory analysis, handling qualities evaluation, and Monte Carlo-based uncertainty characterization across our suborbital SpaceShip and Launch Vehicle programs. You will help develop and sustain the simulation infrastructure that supports flight test planning, safety assessments, and vehicle envelope expansion.
This position offers the opportunity to own and evolve a MATLAB-based simulation architecture, collaborate closely with flight test teams, and directly influence vehicle behavior predictions that affect mission success. Maintain focus on timeliness and execution of tasks and deliverables every day.
Responsibilities
  • Develop, maintain, and improve trajectory simulation tools, including 6DOF flight dynamics models, pilot/control system models, and Monte Carlo simulation analysis frameworks
  • Own the simulation toolchain lifecycle - version control, validation, documentation, and continuous improvement
  • Develop aerodynamic and stability & control models for vehicle performance, handling qualities, and flight dynamics
  • Support flight test planning, limitations review, procedures, and post-flight analysis
  • Analyze flight test data to identify aerodynamic derivatives and update stability & control models
  • Contribute to aerodynamic database development using CFD, engineering methods, and wind tunnel data
  • Develop analysis workflows and post-processing pipelines using MATLAB and Python
  • Collaborate across System Analysis, Aero/Thermal, Loads & Dynamics, Flight Test, and Vehicle Systems engineering
  • Produce analyses, documentation, and technical presentations supporting program reviews and safety assessments
  • Contribute to best practices and standards for simulation tool development and aerodynamic modeling
  • Work collaboratively to achieve goals and/or complete assigned tasks

Required Skills and Experience
  • Minimum of 8 years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree in Engineering; or 6 years and a Master's degree; or a PhD with 3 years experience; or equivalent experience.
  • Demonstrated experience developing and maintaining flight simulation tools, including trajectory simulation and 6DOF flight dynamics
  • Strong understanding of aircraft stability & control, handling qualities, and aerodynamic modeling
  • Experience with Monte Carlo methods applied to trajectory or performance uncertainty analysis
  • Proficiency in MATLAB; Python skills are strongly preferred or required if MATLAB proficiency is less extensive
  • Experience analyzing flight-test data to extract aerodynamic derivatives and correlate models
  • Working knowledge of aircraft or spacecraft systems
  • Demonstrate willingness to adjust thinking and behavior.
  • Ability to communicate in a manner that is timely, respectful, and open to other ideas

Preferred Skills and Experience
  • Experience developing or integrating pilot models or control system models within a simulation environment
  • Familiarity with simulation architecture best practices (modularity, validation frameworks, CI/CD for engineering tools)
  • Experience with aerodynamic database development and integration into simulation tools
  • CFD familiarity or experience with aerodynamic experimental methods
  • Exposure to nonlinear aerodynamics or high-angle-of-attack modeling
  • Experience with flight test execution and instrumentation
  • Advanced degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering

#LI-MS1
The annual U.S. base salary range for this full-time position is $108,871.00-$166,036.00. The base pay actually offered will vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, location, and experience and take into account internal equity. Other forms of pay (e.g., bonus or long term incentive) may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits, dependent on the position offered. For more information regarding Virgin Galactic benefits, please visit https://vgcareers.virgingalactic.com/global/en/benefits
Who We Are
Virgin Galactic is an aerospace and space travel company, pioneering human spaceflight for private individuals and researchers with its advanced air and space vehicles. We are making the dream of space travel a reality, delivering spaceflight at an unprecedented frequency, with the development of next generation space vehicles .
Export Requirements
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. Person (either a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident or a protected individual as defined 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) or be able to obtain the required authorization from either the U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Department of Commerce. The applicant must also not be included in the list of Specifically Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons maintained by the Office of Foreign Assets Control. See list here .
EEO Statement
Virgin Galactic is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Virgin Galactic is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Drug Free Workplace
Virgin Galactic is committed to a Drug Free Workplace. All applicants post offer and active teammates are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies. This can include pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion, and accident related drug and alcohol testing.
Phoenix Employment Requirements
For individuals seeking employment at our Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport facility, employment is contingent upon you obtaining and maintaining a TSA authorized security badge. This includes initial and annual mandatory background checks that are governed by TSA, and conducted by the Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport badging office.

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