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Fluid Dynamics Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

$109K - $164K/yr

POSITION SPECIFICS The Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at The Pennsylvania State University is ... Experience conducting computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis and/or have experience with the ...

The Pennsylvania State University

$82K - $106K/yr

... Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University ... The Department is part of the Fluid Dynamics Division within the Fluid Dynamics and Acoustics ...

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How much do fluid dynamics research jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for fluid dynamics research in the United States is $92,261.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,000.00 and $109,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Fluid Dynamics Research position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Fluid Dynamics Research, candidates typically need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and engineering, usually supported by a relevant degree such as mechanical or aerospace engineering. Familiarity with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software, programming languages (such as MATLAB or Python), and laboratory measurement systems is crucial. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate experimental and simulation results, effective teamwork, and successful innovation in solving complex fluid flow problems.

What is a Fluid Dynamics Research job?

A Fluid Dynamics Research job involves studying how liquids and gases move and interact with surfaces, forces, and each other. Researchers use mathematical models, simulations, and experiments to analyze fluid behavior in various applications, such as aerospace, energy, and biomedical fields. They work to solve real-world problems like reducing drag on aircraft, optimizing fuel efficiency, or improving medical devices. This role typically requires expertise in physics, engineering, and computational methods.

What are common challenges faced in Fluid Dynamics Research roles, and how are they typically addressed?

Fluid Dynamics Research often involves tackling complex and unpredictable flow phenomena, which can require extensive simulation, experimentation, and iterative analysis to understand and solve. Researchers must balance theoretical modeling with practical testing, sometimes spending significant time debugging code or refining experimental setups. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers and data analysts, helps address these challenges by pooling expertise. Most organizations support continual learning through seminars, conferences, or advanced coursework to stay current on industry advancements and troubleshoot emerging issues effectively.

More about Fluid Dynamics Research jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Fluid Dynamics Research jobs? The most popular types of Fluid Dynamics Research jobs are:
What states have the most Fluid Dynamics Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Fluid Dynamics Research jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Fluid Dynamics Research jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Fluid Dynamics Research jobs are:
Fluid Dynamics Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fluid Dynamics Research job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,261 per year, or $44.4 per hour.

Computational Fluid Dynamics Researcher/Engineer

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

$109K - $164K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 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 536 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
The Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at The Pennsylvania State University is seeking a researcher/engineer for our Computational Methods Development Department, located in the Fluid Dynamics and Acoustics Office. ARL/Penn State's purpose is to develop innovative solutions to challenging national problems in support of the Navy, DoD, and Intel communities engineering and technology needs.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
You Will:
  • Perform physics-based code development, verification, and validation in new and existing business areas, including overset grid methods, unstructured and adaptive grid algorithms, multiphase flows, vehicle maneuvering, fluid-structure interaction, ship hydrodynamics, and turbo-machinery; mature and develop business relationships and programs with other ARL offices, industry, and government
  • Part take in all aspects of existing HPC implementations and administration, both in-house and at other leading institutions while working with top researchers in their fields to execute state of the art software, with end-goals of transitioning and fielding systems for the U.S. Department of Defense

Minimal requirements include a Bachelor's degree or higher in an Engineering or Science discipline, Master's degree preferred; 5+ years related experience.
Required skills include:
  • Strong skills in C++, version control systems, and parallel programming
  • Will contribute substantially to the development of state-of-the-art DES/LES and fluid-structure interaction codes
  • Completion of a MS or MSc in an engineering, IT, or scientific discipline
  • Experience conducting computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis and/or have experience with the development of CFD algorithms or models
  • Experience creating computational meshes for use in CFD analyses
  • Must be competent and comfortable producing scientific reports and giving presentations of findings/conclusions resulting from CFD and engineering analyses

Preferred skills an experience include:
  • Active government security clearance
  • Additional knowledge of the commercial codes, especially StarCCM+ is highly desirable, as is familiarity with Pointwise and post-processing tools
  • A Ph.D. is preferred

Your working location will be fully on-site, located in State College, PA.
ARL at Penn State is an integral part of one of the leading research universities in the nation and serves as a University center of excellence in defense science, systems, and technologies with a focus in naval missions and related areas.
You will be subject to a government security investigation, and you must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Employment with the ARL will require successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our web site at www.arl.psu.edu.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science5+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:None
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 $109,300.00 - $164,000.00.**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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