ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Computational Fluid Dynamics Cfd Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Thermon

Computational Fluid Dynamics Analyst

Seguin, TX · On-site

The Role Under supervision, provides Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and Computational Fluid Dynamics ... Provides accurate and detailed reports of FEA/CFD results. Key Characteristics, Competences and ...

Thermon

Computational Fluid Dynamics Analyst

Seguin, TX · On-site

The Role Under supervision, provides Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and Computational Fluid Dynamics ... Provides accurate and detailed reports of FEA/CFD results. Key Characteristics, Competences and ...

Nrel

Researcher III - Computational Fluid Dynamics

A strong background in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and multi-physics modeling, demonstrated through significant project contributions and publications. * Proven experience with high-fidelity ...

The Pennsylvania State University

The CFD Division Head will lead a premier group of approximately fifteen of engineers and research ... Lead technical developments and improvements in field of Computational Fluid Dynamics including but ...

The Pennsylvania State University

The CFD Division Head will lead a premier group of approximately fifteen of engineers and research ... Lead technical developments and improvements in field of Computational Fluid Dynamics including but ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsConstruction JobsHVAC JobsHVAC Engineer JobsComputational Fluid Dynamics Cfd Jobs

Computational Fluid Dynamics Cfd information

See salary details

$11K

$93K

$132K

How much do computational fluid dynamics cfd jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for computational fluid dynamics cfd in the United States is $93,015.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,500.00 and $110,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is computational fluid dynamics (CFD)?

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is a branch of fluid mechanics that uses numerical methods and algorithms to analyze and solve problems involving fluid flows. CFD is widely used in engineering to simulate the interaction of liquids and gases with surfaces, helping to improve designs in fields like aerospace, automotive, and civil engineering. By creating computer models, engineers can predict the performance of products and systems before physical prototypes are built, saving time and resources.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) engineer?

To thrive as a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Engineer, you need a solid background in fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, numerical methods, and a relevant engineering degree. Expertise in CFD software such as ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, or STAR-CCM+, alongside programming skills in languages like Python or MATLAB, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication are essential soft skills for interpreting complex data and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies ensure accurate modeling, efficient project execution, and effective integration of CFD analyses into engineering solutions.

What are common challenges faced by computational fluid dynamics (CFD) engineers when validating simulation results?

CFD engineers often encounter challenges in validating simulation results due to the complexity of real-world fluid dynamics and the limitations of available experimental data. Ensuring mesh independence, selecting appropriate turbulence models, and accurately defining boundary conditions are critical steps that can significantly impact simulation accuracy. Additionally, discrepancies between simulated and experimental results may arise due to simplifications or assumptions made during modeling. Collaboration with experimental teams and iterative testing are key to overcoming these challenges and improving the reliability of CFD analyses.

What is the difference between Computational Fluid Dynamics Cfd vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectComputational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)Mechanical Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, CFD certificationsEngineering degree, often with specialization
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, simulation software environmentsDesign offices, manufacturing plants, labs
Industry UsageFluid flow analysis, aerodynamics, thermal simulationsProduct design, manufacturing, systems integration
Search/Comparison IntentSpecialized simulation roles, CFD skillsBroader engineering roles, design tasks

While CFD specialists focus on fluid flow simulations using advanced software, Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, including design, analysis, and manufacturing. CFD is a specialized skill within mechanical engineering, often requiring specific certifications and software expertise. Both roles are vital in industries like aerospace, automotive, and energy, but CFD professionals typically work more in simulation environments, whereas Mechanical Engineers engage in diverse engineering tasks.

More about Computational Fluid Dynamics Cfd jobs

What cities are hiring for Computational Fluid Dynamics Cfd jobs?

Cities with the most Computational Fluid Dynamics Cfd job openings:

What states have the most Computational Fluid Dynamics Cfd jobs?

States with the most job openings for Computational Fluid Dynamics Cfd jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Computational Fluid Dynamics Cfd jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Computational Fluid Dynamics Cfd jobs are:

Computational Fluid Dynamics Cfd jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computational Fluid Dynamics Cfd job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,015 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

NIAR CONSULTANT - Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Engineer

Wichita, KS • On-site

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.
Newspaper Publishers • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.external

$80 - $110/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Department

NIAR Engineering Design and Modification Team

Location

Wichita, KS-WSU McConnell

Job Description

Since its inception in 1985, the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) at Wichita State University has made a name for itself as the most capable university-based aviation research center in the United States, providing research, design, testing, certification and training to the aviation manufacturing industry, government agencies, educational entities and other clients that can benefit from our services. NIAR is looking for a talented CFD Engineer to join our growing, innovative computational aerodynamic team. This position will be an independent contractor consulting as a Computational Fluid Dynamics Engineer to support various diverse customer program efforts.

Essential Functions
  • Perform computational fluid dynamics simulations for aerospace vehicles operating across multiple speed regimes, including but not limited to:
    • Low‑speed commercial aircraft.
    • Transonic and supersonic flight.
    • Hypersonic.
  • Conduct steady and time‑accurate Reynolds‑Averaged Navier‑Stokes (RANS) simulations to predict aerodynamic and aero‑thermodynamic performance, forces, moments, heat loads, and flow characteristics.
  • Generate high‑quality unstructured grids for complex vehicle geometries and perform either manual or automated grid adaptation.
  • Analyze and interpret CFD results to provide engineering insights for vehicle design, performance optimization, and mission planning.
  • Validate simulation results against other computational approaches, experimental data, and flight test measurements.
  • Document analysis methodologies, simulation parameters, and results in technical reports and presentations.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including aerodynamicists, thermodynamicists, aero‑elasticians, flight mechanics, design, stress, and loads engineers.
  • Support the development and implementation of best practices for CFD simulation workflows.
  • Contribute to code verification and validation activities to ensure simulation accuracy and reliability.
Qualifications / Minimum Requirements
  • Master’s degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or closely related field; or 5+ years of relevant experience with a Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or closely related field.
  • Experience with steady and time‑accurate RANS simulations.
  • Demonstrated proficiency with industry‑standard unstructured‑grid CFD software packages (Kestrel, FUN3D, STAR‑CCM+, ANSYS Fluent, or equivalent).
  • Strong background in fluid dynamics, aerodynamics, and numerical methods.
  • Experience with grid generation tools (unstructured and hybrid meshes).
  • Proficiency in Linux/Unix environments and high‑performance computing (HPC) systems.
  • Experience analyzing flows across multiple Mach number regimes.
  • Strong programming/scripting skills (Python, MATLAB, Fortran, C/C++, or similar).
  • Ability to process and visualize large datasets (Tecplot, ParaView, FieldView, or equivalent).
  • Excellent problem‑solving and analytical capabilities.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
  • Proven track record of technical documentation and reporting.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Proficiency with CFD code and automated grid refinement.
  • Experience with hypersonic flow physics, including:
    • High‑temperature gas effects
    • Chemical non‑equilibrium
    • Radiation heat transfer
    • Ablation modeling
  • Familiarity with scale‑resolving methods, including:
    • Hybrid RANS‑LES approaches
    • Large Eddy Simulation (LES) and Wall‑Modeled LES (WMLES)
    • Detached Eddy Simulation (DES) and variants (DDES, IDDES)
    • Direct Numerical Simulation (DNS)
  • Knowledge of uncertainty quantification and sensitivity analysis techniques.
  • Experience with high‑lift device analysis (flaps, slats, landing gear aerodynamics).
  • Experience with automated workflow development and parametric studies.
  • Experience with programming for high‑performance computing (MPI, CUDA/HIP/SYCL for GPUs, OpenMP).
  • Experience with multi‑body and overset mesh generation and CFD.
  • Background in experimental aerodynamics and wind tunnel testing.
  • Publications in peer‑reviewed journals or conference proceedings.

All services will be provided as an independent contractor, pursuant to a Professional Services Agreement, which must be executed prior to being assigned any work.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply