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Fluid Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Fuse

Fluid Dynamics Engineer

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

As the Fluid Dynamics Engineer, you'll lead the design, simulation, and operational integration of these large-scale fluid systems from concept through commissioning. Core Responsibilities * System ...

New

Relativity Space

Senior Fluid Systems Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$109K - $150K/yr

The Stage Fluids team designs and delivers the propellant, pressurant, pneumatics, and other fluid systems that turn structures into functioning rockets. The team has full ownership across design ...

Vast

Director, Fluid Systems Test

Long Beach, CA

Vast is seeking an experienced and highly driven Director, Fluid Systems Test , reporting to the Vice President of Fluid Systems , to lead the strategy, execution, and scaling of fluids test ...

Vast

Director, Fluid Systems Analysis

Long Beach, CA

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 ...

Vast

Director, Fluid Systems Test

Long Beach, CA · On-site

Vast is seeking an experienced and highly driven Director, Fluid Systems Test , reporting to the Vice President of Fluid Systems , to lead the strategy, execution, and scaling of fluids test ...

Vast

Director, Fluid Systems Analysis

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$203K - $232K/yr

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 ...

Reaxiomatic

Staff Fluid Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Role Overview The Staff Fluid Systems Engineer is responsible for the architecture and delivery of a complete fluid system on the company's first product. This role owns the subsystem from initial ...

Vast

Senior Manager, Fluid Systems Design

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$164K - $232K/yr

Vast is looking for a Senior Manager of Fluid Systems Design , reporting to the VP of Fluid Systems Engineering , to support the development of systems that will be required for the design and build ...

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All JobsFluid JobsFluid Jobs in California

Fluid information

See California salary details

$34.5K

$91.8K

$152K

How much do fluid jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for fluid in California is $91,826.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,700.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fluid engineer?

Fluid mechanics engineers are professionals who study and apply the principles of fluid dynamics and fluid statics to solve engineering problems. They analyze how liquids and gases behave under various conditions and work on designing systems such as pipelines, pumps, turbines, and ventilation systems. Their expertise is essential in industries like aerospace, automotive, chemical processing, and environmental engineering. Fluid mechanics engineers use computer simulations, experiments, and mathematical models to optimize fluid-related processes and ensure safety and efficiency.

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

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 industry-specific certifications such as PE (Professional Engineer) can be highly beneficial. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help Fluid Engineers excel when collaborating on complex projects. These skills ensure accurate analysis, innovative solutions, and the successful implementation of fluid systems in various industries.

What are some common challenges faced by fluid engineers in project-based environments?

Fluid engineers often encounter challenges such as managing complex simulations, ensuring system integrity under varying conditions, and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams. Projects may require adapting to rapidly changing requirements, troubleshooting unexpected flow behavior, and integrating new technologies. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are crucial, as fluid engineers frequently coordinate with mechanical, electrical, and process engineering teams to deliver optimal solutions within tight deadlines.

What is the difference between Fluid vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectFluid EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Civil, or Chemical Engineering; specialized fluid dynamics certificationsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; often includes certifications in thermodynamics or CAD
Work EnvironmentDesigning and analyzing fluid systems, working in labs or on-site at industrial facilitiesDesigning mechanical systems, working in manufacturing plants, labs, or offices
Industry UsageOil & gas, aerospace, HVAC, water treatmentAutomotive, manufacturing, robotics, HVAC
Common Search & ComparisonFluid vs Mechanical Engineer

Fluid engineers specialize in fluid dynamics, working on systems involving liquids and gases, while mechanical engineers focus on a broader range of mechanical systems. Both roles require engineering degrees, but fluid engineers often have additional certifications related to fluid mechanics. Their work environments and industries overlap in areas like HVAC and aerospace, but each has distinct focus areas and applications.

Fluid jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fluid job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,826 per year, or $44.1 per hour.

Fluid Power Specialist

Applied Industrial Technologies

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Applied Industrial Technologies rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

271st of 421 rated retail wholesalers

Job description

As the world's largest fluid power distributor, Applied Industrial Technologies® and the Applied Fluid Power® network of companies provide dedicated fluid power support and custom designed solutions that meet customer performance goals and keep industry running. Additionally, Applied Industrial Technologies® and the Applied Fluid Power® network of companies has one of the largest teams of Certified Fluid Power Specialists, Certified Electronic Control Specialists and Certified Fluid Power Mechanics to assist with problem solving, system building, troubleshooting, and other custom requirements.
A Fluid Power MRO Specialist at Applied Industrial Technologies uses their knowledge of hydraulic/pneumatic fluid power solutions combined with basic customer management skills to define and offer technical solutions to customers. They spend the majority of their time as a business development partner with our team of Account Managers located in our US Service Centers playing the role of local, technical expert building relationships with existing and new customers throughout their assigned territory and growing our business. This key role has a direct impact on our customer's and Applied Industrial Technologies' business results.
Core Responsibilities:
  • Cooperatively create and execute an engagement plan with local US Service Center sales teams identifying and engaging high potential accounts in assigned region including local and strategic accounts to achieve sales and profit goals
  • Act as local, technical fluid power expert in assigned region including facilitating technical supplier interactions with internal sales teams and customers
  • Confer with customers, supplier representatives and internal resources to prepare and present fluid power solutions to both internal associates and customers in order to drive new business. This includes reviewing installed solutions, drawings, plans and other customer documents to prepare technical proposals involving products and services offered.
  • Conduct fluid power training for both internal associates and customers to increase knowledge of Fluid Power and demonstrate expertise and value
  • Develop professional working relationships with key supplier resources to help specify products and systems that will enhance customer performance
  • Coordinate projects with US Service Center personnel
  • Assist development of the Fluid Power collaborative knowledge base including applications, interchanges, case histories, Documented Value Added activities, market activities and competitor activities

POSITION REQUIREMENTS
  • 3+ years fluid power experience including practical applications (hydraulic and/or pneumatic)
  • Strong mechanical aptitude with a desire and passion to learn
  • Ability to read and understand technical drawings and system schematics
  • Ability to clearly communicate technical thoughts and solutions to multiple levels
  • Familiar with MS Office including remote collaboration tools (eg. video conferencing)
  • Strong written & verbal communication & English grammar skills
  • Ability to effectively work independently and as part of a team
  • Proven problem solving skills, ability to multi-task, time management skills, sense of urgency and a bias for action

Preferred:
  • Technical Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree or extensive fluid power application experience
  • International Fluid Power Society (IFPS) Certification
  • Customer interaction experience (eg. Sales or Customer Service)

Desired characteristics
  • Highly developed listening, questioning and effective negotiating skills
  • Ability and desire to quickly learn and leverage new products, industry trends, processes and systems

Founded in 1923, Applied Industrial Technologies (NYSE: AIT) is a leading value-added distributor and technical solutions provider of industrial motion, fluid power, flow control, automation technologies, and related maintenance supplies. Our leading brands, specialized services, and comprehensive knowledge serve MRO and OEM end users in virtually all industrial markets through our multi-channel capabilities that provide choice, convenience, and expertise.
We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, medical condition or any other characteristic protected by law.

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