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Fluid Dynamic Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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

Thermal Engineer

Fremont, CA ยท 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 ...

Perform engineering analyses on a variety of structures projects. * Lead proposals for new research ... Experience with computational fluid dynamics and hypersonics * Experience with mechanical testing ...

Showing results 41-60

Fluid Dynamic Engineer information

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 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 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 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:

Infographic showing various Fluid Dynamic Engineer job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution.

Mechanical Engineer, Fluid Systems

El Segundo, CA โ€ข On-site

$107K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Own end-to-end engineering of fluid systems and components, including compressors, valves, and heat exchangers.

  • Perform thermal and fluids analysis to drive design decisions, verify system performance, and ensure structural integrity.

  • Develop and execute manufacturing/assembly instructions and test plans.


Job description

About Radiant
Radiant is an El Segundo, CA-based startup building the world's first mass-produced, portable nuclear microreactors. The company's first reactor, Kaleidos, is a 1-megawatt, fail-safe microreactor that can be transported anywhere power is needed and run for up to 5 years without refueling. Portable nuclear power with rapid-deploy capability can replace similar-sized diesel generators and provide critical asset support for hospitals, data centers, remote sites, and military bases. Radiant's unique, practical approach to nuclear development leverages modern software engineering to rapidly deliver safe, factory-built microreactors that use existing, well-qualified materials. Founded in 2020, Radiant is on track to test its first reactor at the Idaho National Laboratory this summer, with initial customer deliveries beginning in 2028.
About the Role
Radiant is seeking a highly motivated Mechanical Engineer, Fluids Systems to own critical Kaleidos fluid systems from preliminary design through build and production. These systems include the primary loop subsystems and power conversion loop, serving to convert heat from the reactor core into electrical power. You will be responsible for the following: trade studies, component selection, thermal hydraulic analysis, piping design, vendor selection, assembly, and testing. You will have an instrumental impact of fueling the first new commercial reactor design in over 50 years by 2026.
Responsibilities & Duties:
  • Own end-to-end engineering of fluid systems and components, including compressors, valves, and heat exchangers.
  • Perform complex thermal and fluids analysis to drive design decisions, verify system performance, and ensure structural integrity using first-principle hand calculations and finite element tools.
  • Perform trade studies to optimize system and meet program requirements.
  • Develop and execute manufacturing/assembly instructions and test plans.
  • Create and manage a Bill-Of-Materials (BOM).
  • Find and develop suppliers for all components.
  • Own subassembly design, manufacturing, and test schedules.
  • Own risk analysis (FMEA) for subsystems.
  • Collect requirements, provide expertise and feedback to engineers in other functional areas via clear, constructive communication.

Required Qualifications & Skills:
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in Mechanical, Materials, Aeronautical, Civil or Structural Engineering.
  • Experience with fluid system architecture design.
  • 2+ years of experience in designing, building, and testing fluids systems.
  • Proficient knowledge in fluid dynamics and thermodynamics.
  • Proficient knowledge of heat exchanger design and analysis methods.

Desired Qualifications & Skills:
  • Knowledge of thermodynamic power cycles.
  • Prior experience with designing piping system for thermal growth using hand calculations and FEA tools.
  • Experience with process piping design and testing codes, such as ASME B31.3 and ASME PCC-2.
  • Prior experience with fluid system modeling via Matlab/Python.
  • Experienced in design for manufacturability and ramping up hardware build in a production environment.
  • Experienced in designing and operating test stands.
  • Takes extreme ownership of work and a high degree of responsibility.
  • Excellent communication across multidisciplinary teams.
  • Prior nuclear experience in not required for this role.

Additional Requirements:
  • Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as necessary to accomplish our mission.
  • Must work 100% onsite at El Segundo HQ.
Benefits and Perks
  • Stock: Substantial incentive stock plan for all full-time employees.
  • Medical: 100% up to base silver level plan for employee + 50% dependents, offers up to Platinum plans.
  • One Medical: Sponsored memberships for employees and their dependents.
  • Vision: 100% top tier plan coverage + 50% for dependents.
  • Dental: 100% top tier plan coverage, orthodontia extra, 50% for dependents.
  • Voluntary life, accident, hospital, critical illness, commuter and FSA/HSA are offered as employee contributed benefits.
  • 8-weeks of paid parental leave for all parents. Additional paid pregnancy leave for CA employees.
  • Daily catered lunch. Free snacks and drinks.
  • Flexible PTO policy. Remote workday allocation.
  • Company and team-bonding events, happy hours and in-person camaraderie.
  • Beautiful El Segundo headquarters close to the Pacific Ocean.

Total Compensation and Benefits
Radiant compensates people for impact and invests in those who continue to raise the bar. Radiant's new hire compensation package includes base salary, substantial equity grants, and comprehensive health benefits. Total compensation and level are determined through a rigorous evaluation of interview performance, experience, education, and qualifications, and are designed to support continued growth as scope, responsibility, and impact expand at Radiant.
The best of today's advanced reactor builders don't wait for job postings. They join the winning team. If that's you, contact us directly for immediate opportunities: recruiting@radiantnuclear.com.
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
This position involves access to technology that is subject to U.S. export controls. Any job offer made will be contingent upon the applicant's capacity to serve in compliance with U.S. export controls.