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Fluid Dynamic Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Vast

Director, Fluid Systems Analysis

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$203K - $232K/yr

Partner with test engineering to plan and execute structural and dynamic tests, and perform associated analyses * Oversee multiphase propellant feed system and microgravity fluid behavior modeling ...

Relativity Space

Fluid Systems Engineer II

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$104K - $156K/yr

... dynamics, and heat transfer • Experience with one or more fluid or thermal modeling tools for internal compressible and incompressible analysis • Proficiency in Python or a similar programing ...

Phihong USA Corp

Thermal Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$102K - $110K/yr

... using computational fluid dynamic (CFD) simulation tool, and 3D & 2D CAD modeling tools ... Work with product engineer to optimize the thermal solution and go through qualification process to ...

Radiant

Mechanical Engineer, Fluid Systems

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$107K - $150K/yr

Own end-to-end engineering of fluid systems and components, including compressors, valves, and heat ... Proficient knowledge in fluid dynamics and thermodynamics. * Proficient knowledge of heat exchanger ...

ARA

Dynamic Structural Analysis Engineer

Los Altos, CA · On-site

$79K - $130K/yr

Perform engineering analyses on a variety of structures projects. * Identify and qualify new ... Experience with computational fluid dynamics and hypersonics * Experience with mechanical testing ...

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Fluid Dynamic Engineer information

What is the difference between Fluid Dynamic Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectFluid Dynamic EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Fluid MechanicsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, aerospace, automotive, energy sectorsManufacturing, product design, HVAC, automotive
Industry UsageSpecializes in fluid flow, aerodynamics, hydrodynamicsBroader engineering tasks including mechanics, thermodynamics

Fluid Dynamic Engineers focus specifically on fluid flow analysis, aerodynamics, and hydrodynamics, often within aerospace, automotive, or energy industries. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, covering various mechanical systems, thermodynamics, and structural design. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Fluid Dynamic Engineers specialize in fluid-related applications, making their expertise more niche compared to general Mechanical Engineers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fluid dynamic engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fluid Dynamic Engineer, you need a strong background in fluid mechanics, mathematics, and engineering principles, usually supported by a degree in mechanical, aerospace, or chemical engineering. Familiarity with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software, simulation tools like ANSYS Fluent or OpenFOAM, and relevant certifications are typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills that differentiate top performers. These skills and qualifications are crucial for accurately modeling, analyzing, and optimizing fluid systems across various industries.

What does a fluid dynamic engineer do?

A Fluid Dynamic Engineer specializes in studying and analyzing the behavior of fluids (liquids and gases) and their interactions with surrounding environments. They use principles of physics and mathematics to design and optimize systems such as aircraft, turbines, pipelines, and automotive components, ensuring efficient fluid flow and performance. Their work often involves computer simulations, laboratory experiments, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to solve complex engineering problems.

How does a fluid dynamic engineer typically collaborate with other engineering disciplines during a project?

Fluid Dynamic Engineers often work closely with mechanical, aerospace, and chemical engineers to ensure that fluid flow considerations are integrated into overall system designs. Collaboration is essential during the conceptual and design phases, where input from various specialists helps optimize performance and solve multidisciplinary challenges. Regular meetings, joint simulations, and shared design reviews are common, fostering a team-oriented environment that values diverse expertise. Effective communication and adaptability are key, as solutions often require balancing fluid dynamics with structural, thermal, and manufacturing requirements.
What are popular job titles related to Fluid Dynamic Engineer jobs in California? For Fluid Dynamic Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fluid Dynamic Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Fluid Dynamic Engineer jobs in California are:
Fluid Dynamic Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fluid Dynamic Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Senior Mechanical Engineer, Systems Thermal & Fluid Dynamics

Critical Energy Systems

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

$140K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Company Description:
Critical Energy is an innovative, early-stage, venture-backed cleantech company on a mission to accelerate the global energy transition through abundant, low-cost clean energy. Founded by an ex-SpaceX engineer, Critical Energy designs and manufactures factory-built, modular power plants. These rapidly deployable systems convert heat into electricity using a closed-loop thermodynamic cycle and can be installed in just weeks.
Critical Energy's technology delivers high-efficiency, 24/7 power for geothermal applications and waste heat recovery (including from data center gas turbines), making clean energy practical and cost-effective for demanding sectors like AI hyperscalers and data centers. Backed by top climate and technology investors, Critical Energy is scaling rapidly.
Our Mission:
To build an abundant, low-cost, 100% clean energy future through groundbreaking geothermal innovation.
We are a team of passionate engineers, designers, and visionaries building cutting-edge solutions to meet the world's energy needs with 100% clean energy. We are in the initial stages of development and building our team. This is your chance to join on the ground floor of something big! If you are ready to work at a fun, fast-paced, groundbreaking organization that is positioned to revolutionize geothermal energy, apply today!
About the Role:
We are seeking a versatile Senior Systems Engineer with experience in thermal and fluid dynamics to support the design, development, testing, and optimization of clean energy power generation systems. Collaborating with engineers across the company, this Systems Engineer will take ownership from cradle to grave and help drive the project through completion. This role focuses on system-level modeling, thermal management, and fluid flow analysis, primarily at the 1D level, across components such as heat exchangers, turbines, pumps, cooling & lubrication loops, and other balance-of-plant subsystems.
The ideal candidate will bridge system architecture, physics-based modeling, and product development, ensuring industry-leading performance, reliability, and integration of complex energy systems.
The role will involve collaborating closely with other members of the Systems team in addition to Turbomachinery, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Field Ops, and others. Candidates must be willing to be flexible in their work and be willing to embrace new learning opportunities and expand their comfort zone to benefit the growth of Critical Energy.
The title of this role may be adjusted based on the candidate's qualifications and experience.
Experience specifically with power generation or process plant systems is not a requirement but is a significant bonus.
Responsibilities:
  • Define system requirements, interfaces, and performance budgets for thermal and fluid subsystems
  • Own system PFD and P&ID
  • Develop sub-system and system-level models to calculate steady, transient, and off-design thermal and fluid behavior using commercial analysis tools or in-house tools (e.g., Python code)
  • Support system trade studies evaluating performance, efficiency, and cost impacts
  • Support the integration of components including heat exchangers, pumps, fluid management systems, piping networks, and other auxiliary and support systems
  • Perform hand calculations using first principles to size components, determine flow rates, estimate component and system efficiency, etc.
  • Perform CFD and thermal analysis to evaluate heat transfer, pressure losses, flow distribution, and efficiency
  • Identify, outline, and support component-level and sub-system testing required for risk mitigation
  • Assist in the development of test plans and instrumentation strategies to validate thermo-fluid performance
  • Analyze experimental data to refine models and improve system design
  • Support development of control strategies related to thermal and fluid system performance
  • Generate technical documentation including system specifications, modeling reports, design trade studies, test analysis reports
  • Develop and manage relationships with third-party vendors
  • Support Field Ops teams with technical expertise and advice after product delivery and accept feedback on possible design improvements
  • Other related tasks as defined by your supervisor that add value to the design needs

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related field, or equivalent experience
  • 5+ years of proven experience in systems engineering or highly related role, with a strong portfolio of projects involving diverse and integrated machinery
  • A solid understanding of and the ability to apply first principles of core mechanical engineering principles, including fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and material science as it pertains to system sizing and modeling
  • Experience with a modern CAD package and a willingness to immediately self-teach proficiency in Siemens NX
  • Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills
  • Highly self-motivated with effective communication and team-working skills

Basic Experience:
  • Experience with components and sub-systems common to power generation or process plants, like heat exchangers, pumps, turbines, valves, piping, fittings, sensors, and fluid management systems
  • Understanding of thermodynamic cycles (e.g., Rankine, Brayton)
  • Experience generating 3D models and managing assemblies in CAD while ensuring proper fit and function
  • You have built 1D models of thermo-fluid systems using commercial software (e.g., Aspen, Dymola)
  • Proven experience using Python or another coding language to build thermal and/or fluid models
  • In-depth knowledge of the design and operation of heat exchangers and how to select the appropriate type for a given application
  • Understanding of the applicable codes, compliance, and regulations pertaining to development, deployment, and commissioning processing or power generation hardware
  • Experience with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) using commercial software (e.g., ANSYS CFX, ANSYS Fluent, Numeca)
  • You have worked with other engineering disciplines (such as Aerodynamics, Turbomachinery, Dev Test, Materials, and Manufacturing) to optimize designs for performance, reliability, and manufacturability
  • You are effective and respectful in communicating with other engineers even when it is controversial or regarding errors that you have observed or have been observed in your work
  • Experience creating and maintaining comprehensive design documentation including design reviews and component and system specifications
Bonus Experience:
  • You have been part of a team that designed and commissioned a power generation or processing plant
  • Proven expertise in Siemens NX / Teamcenter environment
  • Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) for static structural, vibration, and fatigue using commercial software (e.g., ANSYS Mechanical, NASTRAN, Catia)
  • Hands-on experience with product development, such as resolving manufacturing issues and analyzing test data to inform design modifications
Compensation:
  • Base salary ranges from $140-200k per annum
  • Equity options
  • 100% company-covered Platinum or HD/HSA (with company contribution) medical
  • 100% company-covered dental and vision
  • Daily catered lunch
  • Several annual social and team building outings

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