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Computational Fluid Dynamics Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Fluid Dynamics, Attributes Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$121K - $151K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You will utilize advanced multiphase Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) methods to model complex ... Provide technical assistance to engineers; propose solutions to issues when found. Work hard ...

Sr. Fluid Dynamics, Attributes Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$121K - $151K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You will utilize advanced multiphase Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) methods to model complex ... Provide technical assistance to engineers; propose solutions to issues when found.Work hard, exceed ...

Sr. Fluid Dynamics, Attributes Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$121K - $151K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You will utilize advanced multiphase Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) methods to model complex ... Provide technical assistance to engineers; propose solutions to issues when found. Work hard ...

Own the development and validation of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and system-level thermal ... Proven experience as a Thermofluids Engineer (or similar analytical role) focusing on the ...

Own the development and validation of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and system-level thermal ... Proven experience as a Thermofluids Engineer (or similar analytical role) focusing on the ...

Mechanical Engineer

Wharton, NJ · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

Setup, run, and analyze complex 2D and 3D Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) models for various ... Work closely with design and test engineers to provide actionable insights derived from simulation ...

Computational Physics Senior Engineer 2

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

Required Experience: * 5-8 years experience with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) codes ... Scientific Programming experience * Working on Unix/Linux operating systems * Proficiency in ...

Own the development and validation of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and system-level thermal ... Proven experience as a Thermofluids Engineer (or similar analytical role) focusing on the ...

Mechanical Engineer

Wharton, NJ · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

Setup, run, and analyze complex 2D and 3D Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) models for various ... Work closely with design and test engineers to provide actionable insights derived from simulation ...

Showing results 41-60

Computational Fluid Dynamics Engineer information

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

As of Aug 19, 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.

What is a computational fluid dynamics engineer?

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.

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computational fluid dynamics 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.

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.

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:

Who are the top companies hiring for Computational Fluid Dynamics Engineer jobs?

The top employers for Computational Fluid Dynamics Engineer jobs are:

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 82% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,015 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

AI / Simulation Principal Engineer - Computational Fluid Dynamics

UL Solutions

Austin, TX • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


UL Solutions rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 120 rated laboratories


Job description


We are seeking a Principal Engineer - CFD Simulation Engineering to join our team. The ideal candidate will be a highly experienced technical leader with deep expertise in physics-based modeling and simulation, particularly in CFD, thermal-fluid sciences, fire and explosion modeling, refrigerant leakage, battery thermal runaway, combustion, multiphase flows, turbulence modeling, and electronic cooling.
A core requirement of this role is strong expertise in simulation Verification & Validation (V&V), including application of industry-recognized frameworks best practices for ensuring model credibility and reliability.
The candidate should have a strong background in applying advanced simulation methods to complex engineering problems involving product safety, certification, design validation, hazard analysis, and failure investigation. The candidate will be responsible for driving technical excellence, consistency, and engineering quality in simulation methodologies across global teams
Responsibilities
  • Serve as the principal technical authority for advanced simulation projects involving CFD, fire/explosion, refrigerant leakage, battery thermal runaway, combustion, multiphase flows, turbulence modeling, and electronic cooling.
  • Lead and enforce simulation Verification & Validation (V&V) methodologies, ensuring alignment with ASME V&V 10 / V&V 20 standards, NASA CFD and modeling credibility guidelines, Oberkampf & Roy (Verification and Validation in Scientific Computing) principles, etc.
  • Define and implement best practices for:
    • Code verification and solution verification
    • Model validation against experimental data
    • Uncertainty quantification (UQ)
    • Sensitivity analysis
    • Grid convergence and mesh independence studies
    • Error estimation and documentation of model limitations
  • Establish model credibility frameworks for simulation-based decision-making, especially for safety-critical applications.
  • Lead simulation-based investigations in:
    • Refrigerant leakage and dispersion (flammability and ignition risk)
    • Battery thermal runaway propagation and vent gas hazards
    • Fire, smoke, and explosion dynamics
    • Combustion and reacting flows
    • Multiphase and phase-change systems
    • Electronics cooling and thermal reliability
  • Ensure test-to-simulation correlation and apply structured V&V approaches to build confidence in simulation predictions.
  • Develop and review technical reports and documentation with clear articulation of:
    • Modeling assumptions
    • Validation evidence
    • Uncertainty bounds
    • Applicability and limitations of the model
  • Act as the technical approver/reviewer for high-impact simulation studies, ensuring V&V rigor before results are used for certification or decision-making.
  • Guide teams in selecting appropriate modeling approaches (analytical, CFD, reduced order, and digital twins) based on required fidelity and validation maturity.
  • Work closely with testing, certification, and regulatory teams to ensure simulation outputs are aligned with engineering standards and safety requirements.
  • Mentor engineers on V&V best practices, simulation credibility, and physics-based modeling techniques.
  • Contribute to the development of internal V&V guidelines, checklists, and simulation governance frameworks.
  • Represent the organization in external technical forums, standard committees, and discussions related to simulation credibility and digital engineering.

Qualifications
  • Ph.D. / Master's in Mechanical, Aerospace, Chemical, Fire Engineering, Thermal Sciences, or related field (Ph.D. preferred) with 10-12+ years of experience in CFD, simulation, safety engineering, or applied R&D
  • The candidate is not only a subject-matter expert in simulation physics but also a recognized authority in simulation credibility and V&V.
  • The candidate should be capable of ensuring that simulation outputs are technically defensible, repeatable, validated, and suitable for high-stakes engineering and certification decisions.
  • The candidate must demonstrate the ability to bridge advanced physics modeling with structured validation frameworks, enabling confident decision-making in safety-critical applications.
  • Proficiency in CFD tools: ANSYS Fluent, STAR-CCM+, OpenFOAM, CONVERGE, FDS
  • Strong fundamentals in: Turbulence (RANS, LES), Heat transfer, Combustion & fire modeling, and Multiphase flows
  • Hands-on experience in: Refrigerant leakage & gas dispersion, Fire / explosion modeling, Thermal & safety simulations
  • Experience in test correlation, validation, and technical reporting
  • Ability to lead complex engineering problems and work with cross-functional teams
  • Strong communication and documentation skills
  • Experience in safety, certification, or regulated environments
    Exposure to UQ, risk-based modeling, or HPC
    Basic scripting (Python/MATLAB)
  • Core Skills: CFD | Combustion | Multiphase Flow | Refrigerant Leakage | Fire & Explosion | V&V | Thermal Analysis | Risk Assessment

What you'll experience working for ULS
UL Solutions has been pioneering change since 1894 and we're still leading the way. From day one, we've blazed a trail protecting the planet and everyone on it. Our teams have influenced billions of products, plus services, software offerings and more. We break things, burn things and blow things up. All in the name of safety science.
That's where you come in - because none of it could happen without you. It takes passion to protect people, problem-solving to safeguard personal data and conviction to make the world a more sustainable place. It takes bold ideas and brilliant minds to build a better world for future generations across the globe.
This is more than a job. It's a calling. A passion to use our expertise and play our part in creating a more secure, sustainable world today - and tomorrow. As a member of our safety science community, you'll use your ideas, your energy and your ambition to innovate, challenge and ultimately, help create a safer world.
Everyone here is unique. But we're also a global community, working together to help create a safer world. Join UL Solutions and you can connect with the brightest minds in the business, all bringing their distinct perspectives and diverse backgrounds together to deliver real change.
Empowering our customers to keep the world safe means thinking ahead. It means investing in training and empowering our people to learn and innovate. At UL Solutions, we help build a better future - one where everyone benefits.
Join UL Solutions to be at the center of safety. To learn more about us and the work we do, visit UL.com
Total Rewards: We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career. The estimated salary range for this position is $142,000 to $190,000 USD and is based on multiple factors, including job-related knowledge/skills, experience, geographical location, as well as other factors. This position is eligible for annual bonus compensation with a target payout of 20% of the base salary. This position also provides health benefits such as medical, dental and vision; wellness benefits such as mental and financial health; and retirement savings (401K) commensurate with the standard rewards offered in each individual location or country. We also provide full-time employees with paid time off including vacation (15 days), holiday and personal days (totaling 12 days) and sick time off (72 hours).
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About Us
A global leader in applied safety science, UL Solutions (NYSE: ULS) transforms safety, security and sustainability challenges into opportunities for customers in more than 110 countries. UL Solutions delivers testing, inspection and certification services, together with software products and advisory offerings, that support our customers' product innovation and business growth. The UL Mark serves as a recognized symbol of trust in our customers' products and reflects an unwavering commitment to advancing our safety mission. We help our customers innovate, launch new products and services, navigate global markets and complex supply chains, and grow sustainably and responsibly into the future. Our science is your advantage.

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