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Fluid Dynamic Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Leveraging knowledge and experience in areas including heat transfer, fluid dynamics, ergonomics ... Develop detailed engineering documentation, reports, and articulate technical presentations to ...

Fluid Systems Engineer II

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$104K - $143K/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 ...

Adapts instruction using flow visualization videos, worked engineering examples, and computational fluid dynamics demonstrations to support engineering students at the undergraduate and introductory ...

Adapts instruction using flow visualization videos, worked engineering examples, and computational fluid dynamics demonstrations to support engineering students at the undergraduate and introductory ...

Fluid Mechanics Tutor

CT · Remote

$40/hr

Adapts instruction using flow visualization videos, worked engineering examples, and computational fluid dynamics demonstrations to support engineering students at the undergraduate and introductory ...

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Fluid Dynamic Engineer information

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$25K

$86.1K

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How much do fluid dynamic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for fluid dynamic engineer in the United States is $86,071.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,000.00 and $108,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, and certain software engineering roles can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes professional certifications or advanced degrees.

What does a fluid dynamics engineer do?

A fluid dynamics engineer analyzes and predicts the behavior of liquids and gases using principles of physics and mathematics. They design and optimize systems such as turbines, aircraft, or pipelines, often utilizing computational tools like CFD (computational fluid dynamics) software. Their work involves testing, modeling, and applying fluid mechanics to solve engineering problems in various industries.

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.

Will AI replace CFD engineers?

AI can assist CFD engineers by automating routine tasks and enhancing simulation analysis, but it is unlikely to fully replace the role. CFD engineering requires specialized knowledge, problem-solving skills, and interpretation of complex results that currently depend on human expertise. Professionals in this field will continue to adapt by integrating AI tools into their workflows to improve efficiency and accuracy.

What engineers make 300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding advanced degrees, or obtaining professional certifications.

How do Fluid Dynamic Engineers 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.
More about Fluid Dynamic Engineer jobs
What states have the most Fluid Dynamic Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Fluid Dynamic Engineer jobs include:

Hydro Controls Research and Development Engineer

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Penn State University rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 100 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

173rd of 537 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 Fluids Machinery Engineer to join our Fluids Machinery Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University. The Department is part of the Fluid Dynamics Division within the Fluid Dynamics and Acoustics Office, which has a long, successful history of providing innovative solutions and technology for a range of U.S. Government and Industry sponsors.
In this position, you will support the design and analysis of marine vehicle hydrodynamics, control effector design, flight controls and maneuvering, as well as supporting experimental fluids testing in a laboratory or field environment. Marine vehicle hydrodynamics focus on a detailed understanding of fluid generated forces (lift and drag) from various parts of a vehicle and how they interact. Flight controls and maneuvering focus on how pilots and autopilot algorithms use understanding of these fluid generated forces to control the kinematics (i.e. motion) of a vehicle in time and space. Experimental fluids testing involves observation and measurement of forces, moments, and flow interacting with a test article in a laboratory environment (wind tunnel or water tunnel) or with a prototype operating in the field.
You will:
  • Contribute to the design, assembly, and operation of complex test articles and experiments at ARL water tunnel facilities, government test facilities, and field sites
  • Perform design and analysis of vehicle control concepts, flight dynamics, and external hydrodynamics or aerodynamics at the component, subsystem and/or full vehicle system level
  • Provide subject matter expertise in the areas of fluid dynamics as part of multidisciplinary teams on well-defined questions and problems
  • 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 engineers, researchers, and academic faculty

Additional responsibilities for a higher level position includes:
  • Lead the design, assembly, and operation of complex test articles and experiments at ARL water tunnel facilities, government test facilities, and field sites
  • Perform design and analysis of vehicle control concepts, flight dynamics, and external hydrodynamics or aerodynamics at the subsystem or system level
  • Provide subject matter expertise in the areas of fluid dynamics as part of multidisciplinary teams on ill-defined questions and problems
  • Manage projects of small or moderate size and scope; make substantial contributions to determining feasibility of project goals and objectives
  • Collaboratively develop, write, and submit proposals for funded research
  • Author/co-author reports, presentations, and papers and present to technical employees
  • Maintain existing and cultivate new external research relationships

Required skills/experience areas include:
  • A BS degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
  • Strong background in aerodynamics or fluid mechanics
  • Experience with flight dynamics and controls beyond undergraduate coursework (to include relevant work experience)
  • Success in an environment where various forms of communication and organizational skills were crucial to be effective
  • Effective at presenting in front of professionals, conveying information to drive to action or decision
  • Previous success with collaborations in a diverse, multi-disciplinary, team-oriented culture

Preferred skills/experience areas include:
  • A Master's degree or Ph.D.
  • Design and execution of experiments using wind or water tunnels
  • Demonstrated expertise with vehicle flight dynamics and controls involving design, analysis, or testing
  • Familiarity with solid modeling/CAD systems, MATLAB, or Simulink
  • Active government security clearance

Your working location will be project-dependent ability for hybrid work, located in State College, PA. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process This position will require some off-site travel and extended off-site work.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Senior Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science14+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Advanced Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science5+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Intermediate Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science2+ 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 web site 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.
All positions at ARL require candidates to possess the ability to obtain a government security clearance; you will be notified during the interview process if this position is subject to a government background investigation. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Employment with the ARL will require successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $86,300.00 - $191,000.00.**THE PROPOSED SALARY RANGE MAY BE IMPACTED BY GEOGRAPHIC DIFFERENTIAL**
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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