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Experimental Fluid Dynamics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$82K - $106K/yr

Perform hands-on work in the preparation and execution of fluid dynamic experiments * Act as part of a team to acquire, analyze, and present technical results * Interact collaboratively with other ...

Fluid Mechanics Design Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$73K - $99K/yr

Strong knowledge of fluid dynamics , statistics , and experimental data analysis . * Experience with stage-gate development processes and requirements cascading. * Proficiency in MATLAB, Simulink ...

Manage projects of small or moderate size and scope in experimental aerodynamics or fluid dynamics * Collaboratively develop, write, and submit proposals for funded research * Develop and maintain ...

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Experimental Fluid Dynamics information

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$57K

$112.3K

$149.5K

How much do experimental fluid dynamics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for experimental fluid dynamics in the United States is $112,254.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,500.00 and $125,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is experimental fluid dynamics?

Experimental fluid dynamics is a field of study that involves investigating the behavior and movement of fluids (liquids and gases) through physical experiments and measurements. Researchers use tools like wind tunnels, water channels, and advanced sensors to observe fluid flow, analyze turbulence, and validate theoretical models. This work is crucial in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and environmental engineering to optimize designs and ensure safety. Experimental results also help improve computational fluid dynamics simulations by providing real-world data for comparison.

What is the difference between Experimental Fluid Dynamics vs Computational Fluid Dynamics?

AspectExperimental Fluid DynamicsComputational Fluid Dynamics
CredentialsEngineering degrees, lab experienceEngineering or physics degrees, programming skills
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, wind tunnels, water channelsComputers, simulation software
Industry UsageAerospace, automotive, research institutionsAerospace, automotive, research institutions
Common Search/ComparisonExperimental Fluid Dynamics vs Computational Fluid Dynamics

Experimental Fluid Dynamics involves physical testing and measurements in labs or wind tunnels to study fluid behavior. In contrast, Computational Fluid Dynamics uses computer simulations to model fluid flow. Both roles are essential in fluid mechanics research and engineering, often working together to validate and improve designs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an experimental fluid dynamics engineer, and why are they important?

To excel in Experimental Fluid Dynamics, you need a strong background in fluid mechanics, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by a degree in mechanical, aerospace, or chemical engineering. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and relevant software such as MATLAB or LabVIEW is essential, and experience with wind tunnels or flow visualization techniques is highly valued. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and strong collaboration and communication skills help you design experiments and interpret complex data effectively. These competencies are crucial for generating accurate experimental insights that drive innovation and validate computational models in engineering applications.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in experimental fluid dynamics, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Experimental Fluid Dynamics often encounter challenges such as managing complex instrumentation, ensuring accurate data acquisition, and minimizing measurement errors caused by environmental factors or equipment limitations. Addressing these issues typically involves meticulous calibration of instruments, regular maintenance of experimental setups, and collaboration with colleagues in instrumentation and data analysis. Additionally, staying updated with the latest advancements in measurement techniques and simulation tools can help streamline workflows and improve experimental outcomes.
More about Experimental Fluid Dynamics jobs
What cities are hiring for Experimental Fluid Dynamics jobs? Cities with the most Experimental Fluid Dynamics job openings:
What states have the most Experimental Fluid Dynamics jobs? States with the most job openings for Experimental Fluid Dynamics jobs include:
Infographic showing various Experimental Fluid Dynamics job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $112,254 per year, or $54 per hour.

Fluid Systems Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

The Vehicle Systems Division (VSD) sits at the center of the ideas and data behind current and future systems supplying innovative research and development; technical evaluations during the acquisition process; conceptual and detailed design; assembly, integration, and test; and operational support. Comprised primarily of highly trained mechanical and aerospace engineers, VSD provides national expertise in the areas of vehicle engineering; guidance, navigation, and controls; robotics; electro-mechanical devices; embedded systems; fluid mechanics; propulsion; thermal control; orbital mechanics; mechanisms; structures; structural dynamics; and dynamic environments.

Our Fluid Systems Section within our Fluid Mechanics Department in VSD is at the forefront of fluid dynamics research, merging advanced experimental, computational, and theoretical approaches to innovate across diverse applications. We are currently seeking a talented Fluid Systems Engineer (Senior Member of Technical Staff - Aeronautical and Mechanical Engineering) to join our interdisciplinary team, driving transformative solutions in fluid mechanics and contributing to state-of-the-art projects. If you're passionate about pushing the boundaries in fluid dynamics, we'd love to hear from you.

This role is located onsite in El Segundo, CA.

What You'll Be Doing

  • Conduct analysis, modeling, planning, and review functions associated with uid systems characterization of space, launch, and reentry vehicles

  • Assess steady and transient internal ows in vehicle components/sub-systems for both single-phase and/or multi-phase states

  • Participate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to resolve technical issues

  • Perform day-of-launch activities at on-site facilities and national launch sites

  • Support on-site and off-site technical interchange meetings, review of contractor analyses, as well as hardware and mission assurance reviews

  • Maintain technical currency and stay abreast of advances in uid mechanics technologies related to space, launch, and reentry vehicles

  • Provide objective technical viewpoints to government and civil customers

  • Work closely with program ofces and interface with contractors, government personnel, research laboratories, and academia

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements:

  • Master's degreefrom an accredited college/university programin mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or related discipline

  • 5 years of academic research or applicable professional industry experience in fluid mechanics

  • Familiarity withincompressible and compressible ow theory

  • Experience in use of analytical methods and computational uid dynamics

  • Willing to travel domestically approx. 20% of the time

  • This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the government. U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

  • PhD degree in aerospace, aeronautical, or mechanical engineeringor related discipline

  • Graduate-level course work in hydraulics, pneumatics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, mass transfer, free-surface ows, incompressible ows, and compressible ows

  • Experience in uid networks, liquid propulsion systems, cryogenics, and slosh analysis

  • Experience in use of experimental methods, hardware, and instrumentation

We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.

(Min - Max)

$100,300.00 - $150,400.00Pay Basis: Annual

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:

  • Operate Strategically
  • Lead Change
  • Engage with Impact
  • Foster Innovation
  • Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees

During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:

  • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

  • Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

  • Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

  • 401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire

  • Flexible spending accounts

  • Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

  • Relocation assistance

  • Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

  • Education assistance programs

  • An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an equalopportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color,religion,geneticinformation, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by emailatpeoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org .You can also reviewKnow Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.