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Fluid Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

** ** Analytical Mechanics Associates Inc. is currently seeking a Computational Fluid Dynamicist to join ... MS degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering* 2 - 5 years of work experience* Experience with ...

Respond to fluid tasking and requests from the customer/end user for performance-based objectives and requirements. * Add Command and Control functionality. * Improve existing performance issues and ...

Showing results 41-60

Fluid Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$23.8K

$107K

$170.5K

How much do fluid engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for fluid engineer in Virginia is $107,030.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,800.00 and $132,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a fluid engineer do?

A Fluid Engineer specializes in the study and management of fluids, such as liquids and gases, within various systems. Their work often involves designing, analyzing, and optimizing equipment and processes that involve fluid dynamics, like pipelines, pumps, and ventilation systems. They use principles of physics and mathematics to solve problems related to fluid flow, pressure, and temperature. Fluid Engineers are essential in industries like oil and gas, aerospace, automotive, and environmental engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fluid engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fluid Engineer, you need a strong background in fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and engineering principles, typically supported by a degree in mechanical, chemical, or civil engineering. Familiarity with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software, simulation tools, and relevant industry certifications is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help set candidates apart in this field. These competencies ensure accurate analysis, innovative solutions, and successful project outcomes in complex fluid systems.

What are some common challenges fluid engineers face when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Fluid Engineers often collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and civil engineers to design and optimize fluid systems. A common challenge is ensuring effective communication across disciplines, as each team may use different technical jargon or have unique project priorities. Balancing the needs of various stakeholders while maintaining system performance and safety can require negotiation and flexibility. Building strong relationships and proactively sharing information helps overcome these challenges and leads to successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Fluid Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectFluid EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Civil, or Chemical Engineering; often certifications in fluid dynamicsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; may include certifications in thermodynamics or CAD
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, pipelines, fluid systems, research labsManufacturing, design firms, product development, HVAC systems
Industry UsageOil & gas, water treatment, aerospace, energyAutomotive, aerospace, manufacturing, consumer products

Fluid Engineers focus on designing and analyzing fluid systems like pipelines and pumps, often working in industries like oil, water, and energy. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working on machinery, thermal systems, and product design across various sectors. While both roles require strong engineering fundamentals, Fluid Engineers specialize in fluid dynamics and systems involving liquids and gases.

Infographic showing various Fluid Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,030 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

Computational Fluid Dynamicist

Analytical Mechanics Associates

Hampton, VA • On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform three-dimensional numerical simulations of internal and external flows including multi-species finite rate chemistry and grid generation.

  • Develop engine and vehicle designs and determine performance and operability for programs involving ramjet/scramjet propulsion.

  • Support the computational design, analysis, simulation, and optimization activities related to high-speed airbreathing vehicle development at NASA Langley.


Job description

Job Description:
Job Description
Analytical Mechanics Associates Inc. is currently seeking a Computational Fluid Dynamicist to join our onsite team at NASA Langley. Specifically, this position resides in the Computational Hypersonics, Aeroheating, Reentry, and Gridding Ensemble (CHARGE) which primarily supports the RSES contract at NASA Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA. CHARGE provides a state-of-the-art computational design, analysis, simulation, and optimization capability in support of NASA's high speed airbreathing full scale vehicle development, subscale flight demonstrators, and associated ground tests through the innovative and timely utilization of a range of commercial and internally developed software packages.
The salary range for this position is $95,000-$120,000 commensurate with education and experience.
Responsibilities include:
  • Performing three-dimensional numerical simulations of internal and external flows including multi-species finite rate chemistry and the accompanying grid generation
  • Developing engine and vehicle designs along with determining performance and operability for programs involving ramjet/scramjet propulsion utilizing a variety of methods from cycle to Navier-Stokes codes

Requirements:
  • MS degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering
  • 2 - 5 years of work experience
  • Experience with commercial/government grid generation packages (Pointwise, Heldenmesh, etc.) and flow solvers (VULCAN, Loci/CHEM, FUN3D, USM3D, OVERFLOW, CFD++, etc.)
  • Experience with data visualization software (TECPLOT, etc.)Background with CAD software is preferred
  • Background in the interpretation of high-speed wind tunnel testing is also desirable
  • Security Clearance will be needed - therefore, only US citizens can be considered

Analytical Mechanics Associates (AMA) is proud of our customer relationships, our diverse and dynamic work environment, and our employees' career satisfaction. AMA is a small business with a wide reach; headquartered in Hampton, VA, AMA has operations in Greenbelt, MD; Huntsville, AL; Dallas and Houston, TX; Denver, CO; Mountain View, CA; and Edwards Air Force Base, CA. With over 60 years of experience, AMA specializes in aerospace engineering, science, analytics, information technology, and visualization solutions. AMA combines the best of engineering, science, and mathematics capabilities with the latest in information technologies, visualization, and multimedia to build creative solutions. We offer competitive salaries and a substantial benefits package, including but not limited to paid personal and federally recognized holiday leave, salary deferrals into a 401(k)-matching plan with immediate vesting, tuition reimbursement, short/long term disability plans, and a variety of medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
AMA is committed to the professional growth of every employee, understanding that the successes of our employees drive our success. We provide a work environment that is engaging, collaborative, and supportive. To learn more about our company, please visit our website at www.ama-inc.com and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.
AMA is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any applicant for employment or employee because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic prohibited under federal, state or local laws.
Analytical Mechanics Associates (AMA) is proud of our customer relationships, our diverse and dynamic work environment, and our employees' career satisfaction. AMA is a small business with a wide reach; headquartered in Hampton, VA, AMA has operations in Greenbelt, MD; Huntsville, AL; Dallas and Houston, TX; Denver, CO; Mountain View, CA; and Edwards Air Force Base, CA. With over 60 years of experience, AMA specializes in aerospace engineering, science, analytics, information technology, and visualization solutions. AMA combines the best of engineering, science, and mathematics capabilities with the latest in information technologies, visualization, and multimedia to build creative solutions. We offer competitive salaries and a substantial benefits package, including but not limited to paid personal and federally recognized holiday leave, salary deferrals into a 401(k)-matching plan with immediate vesting, tuition reimbursement, short/long term disability plans, and a variety of medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
AMA is committed to the professional growth of every employee, understanding that the successes of our employees drive our success. We provide a work environment that is engaging, collaborative, and supportive. To learn more about our company, please visit our website at www.ama-inc.com/careers and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.
AMA is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any applicant for employment or employee because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic prohibited under federal, state, or local laws.