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Cfd Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Process Engineer III

Chaska, MN · On-site

$78K - $110K/yr

Experience with plasma simulation tools (e.g., COMSOL Multiphysics, VSim, CFD-ACE+, ANSYS, or equivalent) and correlation of simulation results with experimental data. * Hands-on experience designing ...

Process Engineer III

Chaska, MN · On-site

$78K - $110K/yr

Experience with plasma simulation tools (e.g., COMSOL Multiphysics, VSim, CFD-ACE+, ANSYS, or equivalent) and correlation of simulation results with experimental data. * Hands-on experience designing ...

Aero/Thermal Engineer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

Understanding of wind tunnel low to supersonic airflows, heat exchanger, combustion, CFD, hot wire anemometry, optical measurement methods (such as shadow-graph, Schlieren, PSP, PIV, LDV) or other ...

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Cfd information

See Minnesota salary details

$10.8K

$91.1K

$129.3K

How much do cfd jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for cfd 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 some common challenges faced by CFD Engineers in their daily work?

CFD Engineers often encounter challenges related to setting up accurate models, selecting appropriate boundary conditions, and ensuring sufficient computational resources for complex simulations. Interpreting simulation results and translating them into actionable engineering recommendations can also be demanding, especially when dealing with multidimensional and turbulent flows. Collaboration with design engineers and project managers is key to incorporating real-world constraints and meeting project objectives efficiently. Staying current with advancements in simulation software and evolving project requirements can also be a rewarding part of the job, offering ongoing opportunities for professional growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Cfd position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) Engineer, you need a strong background in fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and advanced mathematics, often supported by a degree in mechanical, aerospace, or related engineering fields. Proficiency in CFD simulation software such as ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, or STAR-CCM+, along with programming skills in languages like Python or MATLAB, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to clearly communicate technical results are important soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate modeling, effective problem-solving, and seamless collaboration within multidisciplinary engineering teams.

What is a CFD job?

A CFD job involves using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software to analyze and simulate fluid flow, heat transfer, and related physical phenomena. CFD engineers or analysts work in industries such as aerospace, automotive, energy, and manufacturing to optimize designs, improve efficiency, and solve complex engineering problems. They use numerical methods and simulations to predict how gases and liquids behave under different conditions. Strong skills in mathematics, physics, and computer-aided engineering (CAE) tools are essential for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cfd jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Cfd jobs in Minnesota are:
Infographic showing various Cfd job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 4% 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