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Computational Fluid Dynamics Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... computational fluid dynamics models. Specific responsibilities may include: * Modeling core thermal-hydraulic behavior using * subchannel codes such as DASSH, MOOSE-Subchannel, or COBRA-TF * one ...

... high-fidelity computational fluid dynamics models. Specific responsibilities may include ... engineering * Proficiency with thermal fluids (thermal-hydraulics) analysis methods and first ...

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Computational Fluid Dynamics Engineer information

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

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for computational fluid dynamics engineer 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.

How does a Computational Fluid Dynamics Engineer typically collaborate with other engineering teams during a project?

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Engineers often work closely with multidisciplinary teams, such as mechanical, aerospace, and thermal engineers, to integrate simulation results into the overall design process. They regularly participate in design reviews, share simulation findings, and suggest design modifications based on fluid flow analyses. Effective communication is key, as CFD Engineers must translate complex simulation data into actionable insights for colleagues who may not have a CFD background. This collaborative environment fosters innovation and ensures that designs meet both performance and safety requirements.

What are Computational Fluid Dynamics Engineers?

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Engineers are specialists who use computer simulations and mathematical models to analyze and solve problems involving fluid flows, such as air, water, or gases. They apply principles of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and numerical methods to design and optimize products or processes in industries like aerospace, automotive, and energy. CFD Engineers use specialized software to create virtual models, run simulations, and interpret results to improve performance, efficiency, and safety. Their expertise helps reduce the need for physical prototypes, saving time and development costs.

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

AspectComputational Fluid Dynamics EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related fields; CFD certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license optional
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, aerospace, automotive, energy sectors, primarily using simulation softwareManufacturing, design, testing, often involving CAD and physical prototyping
Industry UsageSpecialized in fluid flow analysis, heat transfer, and simulation tasksBroader engineering tasks including design, analysis, and manufacturing

While both roles require a strong engineering background, Computational Fluid Dynamics Engineers focus specifically on fluid flow simulations and analysis using specialized software, whereas Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope including design, manufacturing, and system integration. CFD Engineers often work within industries like aerospace, automotive, and energy, emphasizing simulation expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Computational Fluid Dynamics Engineer, you need a solid background in fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and numerical methods, typically supported by a degree in mechanical, aerospace, or related engineering fields. Proficiency with CFD software such as ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, and experience with programming languages like Python or C++ is highly valued, along with relevant certifications. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate complex concepts clearly set outstanding candidates apart. These skills and qualifications are essential for designing accurate simulations, interpreting data, and providing actionable engineering solutions in diverse industries.
More about Computational Fluid Dynamics Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Computational Fluid Dynamics Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Computational Fluid Dynamics Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Computational Fluid Dynamics Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Computational Fluid Dynamics Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Computational Fluid Dynamics Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 70% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,015 per year, or $44.7 per hour.
Reactor Core Thermal Fluids Engineer

Reactor Core Thermal Fluids Engineer

Oklo

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$80K - $175K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Thanks for your interest in Oklo!  We are searching for a Thermal Fluids Engineer to join our Core Thermal-Hydraulics team. 

Position Description

The Core Thermal-Hydraulics team at Oklo is responsible for analyzing fluid flow and heat transfer within a reactor core. The work includes engineering analyses of thermal-fluid dynamics, clear and thorough documentation of the analyses, as well as interfacing with design teams. A engineer on the team will contribute to the development, qualification, and validation of methods for modeling coolant flow within reactor cores using one-dimensional models, intermediate-fidelity subchannel models, and high-fidelity computational fluid dynamics models.

Specific responsibilities may include:

  • Modeling core thermal-hydraulic behavior using
    • subchannel codes such as DASSH, MOOSE-Subchannel, or COBRA-TF
    • one-dimensional systems codes such as SAS4A/SASSYS-1 or RELAP
    • first principles approaches and in-house flow network models
    • 3-D computational fluid dynamics
  • Developing and documenting methods to analyze core thermal-hydraulic behavior at steady-state and during transients
  • Automation, verification, and validation of modeling and simulation tools in support of analyses
  • Collaborating cross-functionally to define design requirements, and providing technical feedback to quick-iterating design teams

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelors, Masters, or PhD in a technical field, such as nuclear, mechanical, or aerospace engineering
  • Proficiency with thermal fluids (thermal-hydraulics) analysis methods and first principles
  • Able to write clear and concise documentation
  • Experience with
    • low-fidelity and intermediate-fidelity (e.g., porous body and correlation-based) models for heat transfer and fluid flow
    • numerical methods and software development for heat transfer and fluid flow problems
    • data processing (e.g., pre-processing, post-processing, scripting)

Bonus Qualifications

  • Fluency with Python
  • Demonstrated success in qualification and validation of analyses
  • Experience with
    • CI/CD computing environments
    • reactor systems codes (RELAP or similar)
    • subchannel analysis codes (COBRA-TF or similar)
    • high-fidelity computational fluid dynamics analysis

Competencies

We are looking for a Thermal Fluids Engineer that is:

  • Willing and able to learn quickly
  • Deeply skilled in analysis of heat transfer and fluid flow in confined geometries
  • Eager to work on a dynamic team, receive constructive feedback, and grow with us
  • Excited to think creatively, critically, and reflectively about the problems they are solving
  • Familiar with the importance of high-quality documentation

About Oklo travel requirements:

Oklo requires remote employees to travel to headquarters (Santa Clara, CA) twice a quarter annually, based on business or team needs, including attendance at team meetings, off-sites, and other company events or gatherings. Some travel to other sites is also required for this position. For the first two weeks of onboarding, employees are required to be in person at headquarters in Santa Clara, CA.

About Oklo compensation:

Salary: $80,000-$175,000

Oklo offers flexible time off, equity, competitive pay, 401k, health insurance, FSA, flexible work hours, and other benefits.

We are looking to fill this position immediately!


About Oklo Inc.: Oklo Inc. is developing fast fission power plants to deliver clean, reliable, and affordable energy at scale; establishing a domestic supply chain for critical radioisotopes; and advancing nuclear fuel recycling to convert nuclear waste into clean energy. Oklo was the first to receive a site use permit from the U.S. Department of Energy for a commercial advanced fission plant, was awarded fuel material from Idaho National Laboratory, and submitted the first custom combined license application for an advanced reactor to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Oklo is also developing advanced fuel recycling technologies in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Energy and U.S. National Laboratories.

#CHOP: Oklo's Values
Collaboration: We go further, together. We bring diverse perspectives, listen actively, and build trust through transparency and respect. We work across disciplines, sharing ownership to turn complex challenges into shared successes.
Humility: We are team players who act for the good of the company and for the world. We are focused on our mission, not personal recognition.
Ownership: We take pride in what we do and how we do it. We are proactive in finding solutions and see tasks through  to completion. We are committed to delivering on our promises to provide clean, reliable, and affordable energy.
Pathfinding: We chart new ground where no path exists by approaching challenges with curiosity, courage, and creativity while navigating ambiguity.