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Contract Cfd Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... contract at the Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center (TFHRC). This position focuses on ... CFD simulations and CAD model designs may be included to complement physical tests. Once assigned a ...

... contract at the Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center (TFHRC). This position focuses on ... CFD simulations and CAD model designs may be included to complement physical tests. Once assigned a ...

... contract at the Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center (TFHRC). This position focuses on ... CFD simulations and CAD model designs may be included to complement physical tests. Once assigned a ...

... contract at the Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center (TFHRC). This position focuses on ... CFD simulations and CAD model designs may be included to complement physical tests. Once assigned a ...

... contract at the Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center (TFHRC). This position focuses on ... CFD simulations and CAD model designs may be included to complement physical tests. Once assigned a ...

... contract at the Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center (TFHRC). This position focuses on ... CFD simulations and CAD model designs may be included to complement physical tests. Once assigned a ...

... contracts covering approximately 50 countries. Our technology will enable all 8 billion people on ... Perform CFD simulations with Autodesk CFD or similar tools. * Develop CAD models of components in ...

This position is CONTINGENT upon contract award** Nightwing is seeking a dedicated and experienced ... Experience with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). * Knowledge ...

This position is CONTINGENT upon contract award** Nightwing is seeking a dedicated and experienced ... Experience with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). * Knowledge ...

Naval Architect

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$77K - $128K/yr

Performing computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and finite element analyses (FEA) to assess system ... Working collaboratively with goal-oriented project teams, including other engineers, program ...

Naval Architect

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$77K - $128K/yr

Performing computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and finite element analyses (FEA) to assess system ... Working collaboratively with goal-oriented project teams, including other engineers, program ...

Naval Architect

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$77K - $128K/yr

Performing computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and finite element analyses (FEA) to assess system ... Working collaboratively with goal-oriented project teams, including other engineers, program ...

Naval Architect

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$77K - $128K/yr

Performing computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and finite element analyses (FEA) to assess system ... Working collaboratively with goal-oriented project teams, including other engineers, program ...

Naval Architect

Annandale, VA ยท On-site

$77K - $128K/yr

Performing computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and finite element analyses (FEA) to assess system ... Working collaboratively with goal-oriented project teams, including other engineers, program ...

Naval Architect

Lorton, VA ยท On-site

$77K - $128K/yr

Performing computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and finite element analyses (FEA) to assess system ... Working collaboratively with goal-oriented project teams, including other engineers, program ...

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Showing results 1-20

Contract Cfd Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$10.9K

$92.2K

$130.9K

How much do contract cfd engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract cfd engineer in Virginia is $92,217.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,800.00 and $109,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Contract CFD Engineer, you need a strong background in fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and numerical analysis, often backed by a degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering. Proficiency in industry-standard CFD software such as ANSYS Fluent, STAR-CCM+, or OpenFOAM, as well as experience with CAD and meshing tools, is highly valued. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision help you stand out in contract-based roles. These skills and qualities ensure you can deliver accurate, timely simulation results while efficiently managing specific project deliverables for various clients.

What is a contract CFD engineer?

A Contract CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) Engineer is a professional hired on a temporary or project basis to analyze fluid flow, heat transfer, and related physics using simulation software. They typically work in industries like aerospace, automotive, energy, and manufacturing to optimize designs and improve performance. Contract CFD Engineers use tools like ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, or STAR-CCM+ to create and analyze simulations. Their role involves setting up computational models, validating results, and providing insights to improve product efficiency. Since they work on a contract basis, they may manage multiple projects for different clients or companies.

What are some typical challenges contract CFD engineers face and how can they be managed?

Contract CFD Engineers often face the challenge of efficiently onboarding to new projects and quickly understanding unique client requirements and simulation objectives. They may also need to balance tight deadlines with the need for precise modeling and interpretation of complex fluid phenomena. Clear communication with clients, solid project management skills, and ongoing professional development in new simulation techniques can help you manage these challenges effectively. Staying adaptable and proactive enables contract engineers to deliver high-quality results and build strong client relationships, leading to continued contract opportunities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cfd Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Cfd Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Cfd Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Cfd Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Contract Cfd Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Contract Cfd Engineer job openings:

Senior Aerospace Modeling & Simulation Engineer

Modern Technology Solutions, Inc.

Alexandria, VA โ€ข On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

MTSI is seeking a highly skilled Senior Aerospace Modeling & Simulation (M&S) Engineer with deep experience in hypersonics, aerothermodynamics, propulsion, and high-fidelity physics-based simulations. The ideal candidate has proven technical leadership experience, thrives in complex analysis environments, and can manage and execute medium- to large-scale technical tasks with limited oversight.
You will support aerospace research and engineering efforts across aerothermodynamics, high-speed propulsion, interceptor lethality, mission engineering, and advanced CFD-based studies. You will routinely interface with government customers, contribute to proposal efforts, and lead multidisciplinary teams.
Role & Responsibilities
Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:
Technical Leadership & Execution
  • Lead multiphysics M&S efforts including hypersonic flowfields, scramjet/ramjet propulsion, IR signature analysis, interceptor lethality, and aerothermal phenomena.
  • Translate guidance from Program Managers or government technical leads into actionable engineering tasks and workflows.
  • Manage and execute medium-large technical projects, ensuring efficient task coordination with available resources.
  • Serve as technical lead for time-critical, high-visibility engineering tasks.
  • Engage and support MTSI internal Senior Leaders, Technical Fellows/Directors, and Engineering Analysis team lead with technical expertise and business development.

Modeling & Simulation
  • Develop, execute, and analyze high-fidelity CFD, combustion, and aerothermal simulations using GOTS, COTS, and privately developed tools such as US3D, STAR-CCM+, Cantera, Pointwise, Kestrel, Fluent, ParaView, VisIt, or similar.
  • Optics performance modeling, seeker/sensor performance evaluation, Zmax experience preferred.
  • GNC modeling experience preferred.
  • Apply advanced chemical kinetics, plasma physics, and high-speed propulsion modeling expertise to complex aerospace problems.
  • Conduct operations analysis and mission engineering studies using tools such as AFSIM.
  • Conduct campaign analysis studies using tools such as CFAM or STORM.

Customer Engagement & Communication
  • Routinely engage with government technical representatives, teammates, and subcontractors.
  • Clearly explain results, analysis methodologies, and technical approaches in both formal and informal settings.
  • Serve as technical volume lead for proposals; assist with Pink/Red team reviews.

Organizational Leadership
  • Mentor junior engineers and contribute to Communities of Practice.
  • Support or lead internal innovation projects and cross-functional technical initiatives.
  • Participate in conferences, workshops, and technical sessions as a presenter or chair.

Required Skills & Experience
  • Demonstrated expertise in aerothermodynamics, hypersonics, combustion physics, high-speed propulsion, and CFD model development.
  • Proficiency in multiple programming languages (e.g., Python, MATLAB, Fortran, C++, Bash, Java) and familiarity with modern M&S toolchains.
  • Ability to independently break down complex problems, develop technical approaches, and assign tasks to others based on strengths.
  • Strong technical writing, customer briefing, and communication skills.
  • Experience leading or supporting business development activities.

Qualifications
  • MS in Aerospace Engineering and 5+ years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Experience working in defense industry roles.
  • Active TS/SCI security clearance (highly preferred).
  • Ability to work independently with guidance required only for the most complex situations.

Physical Requirements
  • On-site at Alexandria, VA. Possibility of working remotely 1-2 days/week depending on contract work.

The pay range for this position is $120,000/year to $150,000/year; however, base pay offered may vary depending on established government contract ranges, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience, and other factors. MTSI also offers a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Base pay information is based on market location. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis. This posting will be renewed periodically until the position is filled.
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