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Fluid Dynamics Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Panthalassa

Fluid Dynamicist

Portland, OR · On-site

$18.25 - $22/hr

... fluid dynamics (CFD), controls, optimization, mechanical engineering, metocean, and fleet ... performance teams. This role focuses on reduced-order and mid-fidelity marine hydrodynamics tools ...

Panthalassa

Fluid Dynamicist

Portland, OR · On-site

$18.25 - $22/hr

... fluid dynamics (CFD), controls, optimization, mechanical engineering, metocean, and fleet ... performance teams. This role focuses on reduced-order and mid-fidelity marine hydrodynamics tools ...

Panthalassa

Fluid Dynamicist

Portland, OR · On-site

$18.25 - $22/hr

... fluid dynamics (CFD), controls, optimization, mechanical engineering, metocean, and fleet ... performance teams. This role focuses on reduced-order and mid-fidelity marine hydrodynamics tools ...

Vast

Director, Fluid Systems Analysis

Long Beach, CA · On-site

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 ...

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How much do fluid dynamics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for fluid dynamics engineer in the United States is $85,029.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $94,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, and certain software engineering roles can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities. High-level positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and extensive industry experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Fluid Dynamics Engineer, and why are they important?

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.

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 engineers require expertise in physics, modeling, and problem-solving that AI tools currently complement rather than substitute. Human oversight remains essential for complex design and interpretation of results.

What does a fluid dynamics engineer do?

A fluid dynamics engineer analyzes the behavior of liquids and gases to design systems and components such as turbines, pipelines, and aerodynamic structures. They use computational tools like CFD software and often require a strong background in physics and mathematics to optimize fluid flow and performance. Their work supports industries like aerospace, automotive, energy, and manufacturing.

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 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.
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What cities are hiring for Fluid Dynamics Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Fluid Dynamics Engineer job openings:
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Fluid Dynamics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fluid Dynamics Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,029 per year, or $40.9 per hour.
Structural Dynamics Engineer

Structural Dynamics Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation

El Segundo, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 hours ago

Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.
The Vehicle Systems Division (VSD) sits at the center of the ideas and data behind current and future systems supplying innovative research and development; technical evaluations during the acquisition process; conceptual and detailed design; assembly, integration, and test; and operational support. Comprised primarily of highly-trained mechanical and aerospace engineers, VSD provides national expertise in the areas of vehicle engineering; guidance, navigation, and controls; robotics; electro-mechanical devices; embedded systems; fluid mechanics; propulsion; thermal control; orbital mechanics; mechanisms; structures; structural dynamics; and dynamic environments.
The Structural Dynamics and Environments Department is seeking a Structural Dynamics Engineer (Engineering Specialist/Sr. Engineering Specialist - Aeronautical and Aerospace Structural Engineering). Our mission is to provide to our internal and external customers the highest quality technical expertise in the areas of analytical, experimental, flexible, and rigid body dynamics for the design, development, acquisition, and operation of space launch and orbital systems. We specialize in spacecraft and launch vehicle dynamics; mode survey test planning and independent data assessment; time series data analysis; independent integrated spacecraft/launch vehicle coupled loads analysis; and flexible system separation analysis and testing.
This position is 100% on-site based in El Segundo, CA.
What You'll Be Doing
  • Perform structural dynamic analyses and evaluations of launch vehicle and spacecraft loads for all phases of flight
  • Develop simulation tools and processes to solve structural dynamics problems
  • Evaluate analytical predictions versus flight sensor data to develop recommendations to improve loads analysis methods
  • Plan and oversee the execution of mode survey testing for various launch vehicle and space vehicle components, including test data quality verification and finite element model correlation to test data
  • Conduct analyses and investigations to solve a broad range of structural dynamics problems requiring advanced treatment and/or coordination within the department and other technical disciplines
  • Provide technical support and expertise to program offices and external customers in the discipline of structural dynamics

What You Need to be Successful
Minimum Requirements for the Engineering Specialist- Aeronautical and Aerospace Structural Engineering:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Structural, or Aerospace Engineering or similar field
  • 6 years experience in structural dynamics or similar field
  • Experience with finite-element model development techniques and software
  • Knowledge of classical vibration and transient response analysis theory
  • Sound knowledge of Linear Algebra and its application in structural dynamic computations
  • Prior experience with leading teams or performing project management roles
  • Willingness to occasionally travel and to work off-business hours to support customer needs, approximately ~5%, as required
  • Ability to obtain and maintain TS/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

In addition to the requirements above, the minimum requirements for the Sr. Engineering Specialist- Aeronautical and Aerospace Structural Engineering:
  • 10 years of total experience in structural dynamics or similar field
  • Experience in mode survey or other dynamic testing

How You Can Stand Out
It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:
  • Advanced degree in Mechanical, Structural, or Aerospace Engineering or similar field with related coursework in structural dynamics
  • Experience with high frequency data acquisition and signal processing
  • Knowledge of component-mode synthesis techniques and finite-element analysis programs, especially experience with Nastran and DMAP programming
  • Project management or team lead experience related to development of computational analysis tools and maintenance of finite-element analysis best practices/methodologies

We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.
(Min - Max)
$117,300.00 - $226,900.00
Pay Basis: Annual
Leadership Competencies
Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:
  • Operate Strategically
  • Lead Change
  • Engage with Impact
  • Foster Innovation
  • Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees
During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.
Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:
  • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
  • Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
  • Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
  • 401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
  • Relocation assistance
  • Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
  • Education assistance programs
  • An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.
Equal Opportunity Commitment
The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.

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