ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Fluid Dynamics Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Socket.dev

Vehicle Fluid Systems Engineer II

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$104 - $156/hr

... dynamics, and heat transfer * • Experience with one or more fluid or thermal modeling tools for ... or a similar programming language for scientific computing and automated test/simulation data ...

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 ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

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.

Fluid Component Engineer II

Rocket Lab Corporation

Long Beach, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Own fluid component designs from concept through launch.

  • Create and maintain analytical models to size components and predict their behavior.

  • Build and test prototype components, lead test campaigns, and conduct root cause failure investigations.

Rocket Lab rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

NEUTRON ROCKET

Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab's proven execution history with the Electron program. 

FLUID COMPONENT ENGINEER II

The Fluid Component Engineer II plays a key role in the design, build and test of fluid components across the Neutron launch vehicle, including valves, actuators and regulators. You will collaborate with an amazing team of engineers in the Fluid Systems department to turn vehicle-level requirements into a family of fluid components that enable Neutron to operate with aircraft-like reusability and reliability.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO 

  • Own fluid component designs from concept through launch 
  • Create and maintain analytical models to size new components from first principles and predict sealing, force balance, structural and timing behavior 
  • Create and maintain component product definition through CAD models, technical drawings, and test procedures 
  • Lead key component design, manufacturing and test reviews 
  • Manage vendor and internal schedules during design, build and test sprints.
  • Build and test prototype components hands-on, collaborating with machinists, build technicians, manufacturing engineers, and test engineers  
  • Lead test campaigns to qualify components for flight 
  • Conduct root cause failure investigations of hardware, and implement design fixes to achieve reliability  
  • Update existing component designs to address critical failure modes while reducing cost and mass and increasing build rate  .
  • Review data from engine and vehicle test operations to validate component performance and diagnose anomalies   

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS 

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or aerospace engineering 
  • 2+ years of experience with mechanical design and assembly, CAD, Finite Element Analysis (FEA), 2D drawings, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) 
  • Strong first-principles engineering knowledge to establish and challenge requirements and develop optimized designs 
  • Knowledge of metal and polymer material properties, fabrication, fastening, assembly and testing methods 
  • Strong engineering fundamentals in structural analysis, fluid dynamics, thermodynamics and electromechanical systems 
  • Demonstrated ability to bring definition to complex design problems in a fast-paced environment with information available 
  • Hands-on experience with prototyping, mechanical assembly and pressure testing  

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE 

  • 5+ years experience of aerospace valve specific design, build and test  
  • Experience with cryogenic oxygen & methane components and combustion devices 
  • Experience using fluids analysis tools such as REFPROP and GFSSP 
  • Experience using Siemens NX 
  • Experience using Python 
  • Experience with precision CNC machining (mill and lathe) and CAM 

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas

Anticipated annual equity grant value is designed around function, level, experience, and other factors; realized value depends on vesting and stock-price performance.

Join one of the world's fastest-growing space companies and own a piece of it. In addition to competitive base pay, you'll receive company stock as part of your total compensation package, giving you a direct stake in our success. As we expand to new launch sites, groundbreaking missions, and global markets, your ownership has the opportunity to grow alongside the company.

Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock), top-tier medical plans (HMO, PPO, and a zero cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution), dental and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick time, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.

Additional perks include subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers (where available), discounted gym memberships, complimentary snacks and beverages, 50% employee discount on our popular merch store, and a variety of other employee discounts.

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Total Compensation (base and equity)
$110,875—$156,225 USD
Base Salary
$100,800—$138,600 USD

WHAT TO EXPECT 

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.   

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant.  These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations. 

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality.  For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.

What Rocket Lab employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom