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Computational Fluid Dynamics Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

POSITION SPECIFICS We are searching for aDivision Head for the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Division in the Fluid Dynamics and Acoustics Office (FDAO) at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL ...

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POSITION SPECIFICS We are searching for aDivision Head for the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Division in the Fluid Dynamics and Acoustics Office (FDAO) at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL ...

New

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Computational Fluid Dynamics Internship information

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How much do computational fluid dynamics internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for computational fluid dynamics internship in the United States is $19.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Computational Fluid Dynamics Intern, you need a strong background in fluid mechanics, numerical methods, and programming, typically supported by coursework in mechanical or aerospace engineering. Familiarity with CFD software such as ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, and proficiency in programming languages like Python or MATLAB are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication help you interpret results and collaborate with engineering teams. These skills are crucial for accurately simulating fluid behaviors, solving complex engineering problems, and contributing value to research or design projects.

What is a Computational Fluid Dynamics Internship?

A Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Internship is a temporary position, typically for students or recent graduates, where individuals work with professionals to simulate and analyze fluid flows using specialized computer software. Interns gain hands-on experience applying mathematical models and physics principles to solve real-world problems in industries like aerospace, automotive, and energy. The internship often involves tasks such as creating simulation models, running analyses, interpreting results, and collaborating with engineering teams. This experience helps interns develop technical and problem-solving skills needed for a career in CFD or related fields.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect during a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) internship?

As a Computational Fluid Dynamics intern, you'll typically work on tasks such as setting up and running CFD simulations, validating models with experimental or real-world data, and analyzing simulation results to support engineering decisions. You may also assist in refining mesh quality, optimizing design parameters, and preparing technical reports or presentations for your team. Interns often collaborate closely with engineers, researchers, and sometimes software developers, gaining valuable hands-on experience with industry-standard CFD tools. This role offers excellent exposure to problem-solving in real engineering contexts and is a great stepping stone for further career growth in aerospace, automotive, or energy sectors.

What is the difference between Computational Fluid Dynamics Internship vs Mechanical Engineering Internship?

AspectComputational Fluid Dynamics InternshipMechanical Engineering Internship
Required CredentialsRelevant coursework, basic programming skillsEngineering fundamentals, possibly CAD experience
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, simulation softwareDesign studios, manufacturing settings
Industry UsageFluid dynamics, aerospace, automotiveProduct design, manufacturing, energy

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) internships focus on simulation and analysis of fluid flow using specialized software, often requiring programming skills. Mechanical Engineering internships cover broader engineering principles, including design and manufacturing. Both roles are industry-relevant but differ in scope and technical focus.

More about Computational Fluid Dynamics Internship jobs
What cities are hiring for Computational Fluid Dynamics Internship jobs? Cities with the most Computational Fluid Dynamics Internship job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Computational Fluid Dynamics jobs? The most popular types of Computational Fluid Dynamics jobs are:
What states have the most Computational Fluid Dynamics Internship jobs? States with the most job openings for Computational Fluid Dynamics Internship jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Computational Fluid Dynamics Internship jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Computational Fluid Dynamics Internship jobs are:
Infographic showing various Computational Fluid Dynamics Internship 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 $40,174 per year, or $19.3 per hour.
Division Head - Computational Fluid Dynamics

Division Head - Computational Fluid Dynamics

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

New


Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

203rd of 555 rated colleges and universities


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
We are searching for a Division Head for the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Division in the Fluid Dynamics and Acoustics Office (FDAO) at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. The CFD Division Head will lead a premier group of approximately fifteen of engineers and research faculty in meeting the mission of bringing state-of-the-technology tools, talent and leading-edge computational fluid dynamics to our DoD and industrial sponsors. The Division Head, along with immediate reports, will develop and mature business relationships and programs with other ARL offices, industry, and government sponsors. This critical role requires a blend of technical mastery in fluid dynamics, technical management, and personnel management in a mission-focused environment. This position may be filled as either a Research and Development Engineer or a non-tenure Research Faculty.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
You will:
  • Lead and perform design and performance support analyses, using in-house and commercial CFD tools, for a broad range of applications, including undersea vehicles and propulsion, coupled hydrodynamics/hydroacoustics, low-speed and high-speed aerodynamics, and complex multi-physics systems
  • Lead technical developments and improvements in field of Computational Fluid Dynamics including but limited to code development, V&V, and applications in new and evolving tools and methodologies to solve complex flows. Projects may include but not limited to cavitation and multiphase flows, vehicle maneuvering, turbomachinery, fluid-structure/fluid-acoustic interactions, drag reduction, signatures, and code optimization for modern HPC systems
  • Provide technical oversight of complex simulations and interface across the organization to ensure high quality research output
  • Perform organizational leadership to the CFD Division, to include personnel management, recruitment, development, and retention of employees

Additional responsibilities for higher-level position includes:
  • Work with FDAO management team and other ARL offices to build the research portfolio, improve technical capabilities, and enhance cross discipline cooperation and collaboration

Required Skills/Experience areas include:
  • Master's degree or higher in an Engineering or Science discipline or higher plus ten years of related experience
  • Past success as a Principal Investigator in this field
  • Strong research track record of computational fluid dynamics with a focus in hydromechanics, hydroacoustics, maneuvering and controls, propulsion systems or related discipline
  • Previous success managing people with supervisory experience
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills with past success in writing white papers or reports
  • Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Top Secret level or higher and may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility

Preferred Skills/Experience areas include:
  • Successful history of proposed and awarded research projects evidenced through securing external research funding
  • Demonstrated leadership of multi-discipline research projects
  • Expert-level knowledge of high-performance computing architectures and information systems
  • Experience with STAR-CCM+

Fully on-site located in State College, PA but, options exist for hybrid of on-site/work from home based on project-dependent ability. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process. This role requires periodic travel to remote locations.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Division Head (ARL) - Principal Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science19+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Division Head (ARL) - Senior Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science14+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:None
ARL's purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC). FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our website at www.arl.psu.edu
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL):Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $203,808.00 - $336,300.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
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