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Fluid Dynamics Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Vast

Director, Fluid Systems Analysis

Long Beach, CA

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 ...

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 ...

Electric Hydrogen

Fluid Systems Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$105K - $150K/yr

Perform engineering calculations, process simulations, and sensitivity analyses to support product ... Working knowledge of fluid dynamics, heat transfer, mass transport, reaction chemistry, and ...

New

Industrious Ventures

Senior Fluid Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$150 - $250/hr

This is a hands‑on design role for an engineer who can pair strong fluid dynamics fundamentals with practical, manufacturable hardware design. ResponsibilitiesDesign and Analysis * Lead the design ...

New

Industrious Ventures

Junior Fluid Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$100 - $130/hr

Working knowledge of fluid dynamics, hydraulics, or pneumatics fundamentals. * Proficiency in 3D ... Familiarity with engineering drawings and technical data packages. Annual Salary Range $100,000 ...

New

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All JobsFluid Dynamics Engineer JobsFluid Dynamics Engineer Jobs in California

Fluid Dynamics Engineer information

See California salary details

$35.5K

$83.9K

$133.2K

How much do fluid dynamics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for fluid dynamics engineer in California is $83,915.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,600.00 and $92,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fluid dynamics engineer?

To thrive as a Fluid Dynamics Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or aerospace engineering, with strong knowledge of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and applied mathematics. Familiarity with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software such as ANSYS Fluent or OpenFOAM, and experience with programming languages like Python or MATLAB, are typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help engineers interpret data and collaborate on complex projects. These competencies are crucial for accurately modeling fluid behaviors and delivering innovative solutions in industries like aerospace, automotive, and energy.

What are some common challenges faced by fluid dynamics engineers when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Fluid Dynamics Engineers often collaborate with professionals from mechanical, aerospace, and software engineering backgrounds. One common challenge is effectively communicating complex fluid flow concepts to team members who may not have a deep background in fluid mechanics. Additionally, integrating fluid dynamics solutions with other system requirements, such as structural or thermal constraints, can require careful negotiation and compromise. Successful engineers in this role develop strong communication skills and adaptability, enabling them to bridge knowledge gaps and drive integrated project solutions.

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

AspectFluid Dynamics EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Civil Engineering; specialization in fluid mechanicsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering; broad engineering background
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, aerospace, automotive, energy sectors focusing on fluid behaviorManufacturing, design, product development across various industries
Industry UsageSpecialized in fluid flow analysis, simulations, and testingDesign, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems

Fluid Dynamics Engineers focus on analyzing and solving problems related to fluid flow, often using simulations and testing. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working on various mechanical systems, including fluids but also solids and thermal systems. Both roles require strong engineering fundamentals, but Fluid Dynamics Engineers specialize in fluid behavior within mechanical contexts.

What does a fluid dynamics engineer do?

A fluid dynamics engineer analyzes the behavior of liquids and gases to design systems and products such as aircraft, turbines, or pipelines. They use computational tools like CFD software and often require a strong background in physics and mathematics to develop models and optimize performance. Their work typically involves simulation, testing, and applying principles of fluid mechanics to solve engineering problems.

What are popular job titles related to Fluid Dynamics Engineer jobs in California?

For Fluid Dynamics Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Fluid Dynamics Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Fluid Dynamics Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Fluid Dynamics Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Fluid Dynamics Engineer job openings:

Fluid Dynamics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fluid Dynamics Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,915 per year, or $40.3 per hour.

Director, Fluid Systems Analysis

Vast

Long Beach, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Vast is looking for a Director, Fluid System Analysis, reporting to the Vice President of Fluid Systems, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of artificial-gravity human-rated space stations. 

This will be a full-time, exempt position located in our Long Beach location. 

Key Responsibilities 

  • Manage and lead a team of Propulsion and Thermal analysts, including hiring, mentoring, and technical development
  • Set standards for analysis methods, documentation, and best practices in a fast-paced, evolving environment
  • Expand company capabilities in analysis by validating and establishing methods and practices across structural, fluid, and thermal domains
  • Create and maintain FEA models of propulsion components to support design and certification
  • Define and review critical loads and load cases in collaboration with GNC, fluids analysis, dynamics/loads engineers and design teams
  • Mentor design and analysis engineers in analysis methods and validation via testing to review/approve component drawings with feedback
  • 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, including vaporization, condensation, propellant acquisition and slosh dynamics
  • Guide high-pressure gas system analysis, transient flow behavior (e.g., water hammer, adiabatic compression), and thruster plume impingement studies
  • Support development and validation of propulsion fluid systems using best practices 
  • Integrate simulation results with ground and flight test data to validate models and refine designs
  • Partner closely with design, manufacturing, propulsion, thermal, and GN&C teams to ensure analysis informs critical decisions
  • Present technical findings at design reviews and contribute to NASA certification processes
  • Lead root cause investigations and corrective actions when issues arise

Minimum Qualifications

  • B.S. degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related Engineering field
  • 8+ years of relevant aerospace design and analysis experience
  • 2+ years of experience overseeing / managing a technical engineering or analysis team
  • Strong expertise in structural analysis, including FEA modeling, stress analysis, and load case development
  • Experience with thermo fluid analysis tools (CFD, 1-D system modeling, etc.)
  • Knowledge of mechanical design, manufacturing processes, and design-for-manufacturability principles

Preferred Qualifications

  • M.S. or higher in Aerospace, Mechanical, or related engineering
  • Experience in human spaceflight hardware design and analysis
  • Expertise in multiphase fluid dynamics, propellant management, and slosh modeling under low-gravity conditions
  • Experience with thermo-mechanical fatigue, fracture analysis, and spectrum loading fatigue analysis
  • Hands-on experience with high-pressure gas systems, transient fluid dynamics and heat exchangers
  • 5+ years of experience with liquid or gas  rocket engine combustion devices, including RCS design
  • Track record of leading multidisciplinary teams linking analysis predictions with test and qualification data to accelerate hardware development and certification

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