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Freelance Cfd Simulation Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Koch Industries

Thermal Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Thermal, Mechanical, or related Engineering discipline. * 1+ years of Thermal or Mechanical Engineering experience. * 1+ years of experience with thermal and CFD simulation ...

Filtration Group Corp

Design Engineer

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$85K - $96K/yr

Ensure manufacturability, performance, and cost-optimization through DFMA and FEA/CFD simulations ... Engineering Support * Create and maintain engineering documentation including engineering drawings ...

Filtration Group Corp

Design Engineer

Des Plaines, IL

$85K - $96K/yr

Ensure manufacturability, performance, and cost-optimization through DFMA and FEA/CFD simulations ... Engineering Support * Create and maintain engineering documentation including engineering drawings ...

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All JobsCfd Simulation Engineer JobsFreelance Cfd Simulation Engineer JobsFreelance Cfd Simulation Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Freelance Cfd Simulation Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11.3K

$95.8K

$136K

How much do freelance cfd simulation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance cfd simulation engineer in Chicago, IL is $95,819.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,100.00 and $113,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance CFD simulation engineer?

Freelance CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) Simulation Engineers are independent professionals who use computer software to analyze and solve problems involving fluid flows, heat transfer, and related phenomena. They work on a project-by-project basis for various clients, often in industries like aerospace, automotive, energy, and manufacturing. Their responsibilities include setting up simulation models, running analyses, interpreting results, and providing recommendations to improve designs or processes. Freelance CFD engineers typically possess strong technical backgrounds in engineering or physics and are skilled in software such as ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, or COMSOL Multiphysics.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance CFD simulation engineers when working with clients remotely?

Freelance CFD simulation engineers often encounter challenges related to communication and project scope when collaborating remotely with clients. Clearly defining project requirements, expected deliverables, and timelines can be difficult without in-person meetings, which may lead to misunderstandings or revisions. Additionally, freelancers are responsible for managing their own workflow, troubleshooting technical issues independently, and ensuring that simulation results are presented in a way that is easily understood by non-technical stakeholders. Building trust and maintaining transparency with clients through regular updates and clear documentation is crucial to overcoming these challenges.

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

To excel as a Freelance CFD Simulation Engineer, you need a solid background in fluid dynamics, numerical analysis, and engineering principles, often demonstrated by a relevant degree. Expertise in industry-standard CFD software such as ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, or COMSOL, along with proficiency in programming languages like Python or MATLAB, is crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and the ability to manage projects independently are standout soft skills for this role. These abilities are vital for delivering accurate simulations, meeting client expectations, and maintaining a successful freelance practice.

What is the difference between Freelance Cfd Simulation Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectFreelance Cfd Simulation EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, CFD certificationsEngineering degree, CAD certifications
Work EnvironmentRemote, project-basedOffice or on-site, product development
Industry UsageEngineering consulting, simulation servicesProduct design, manufacturing

The Freelance Cfd Simulation Engineer specializes in computational fluid dynamics analysis on a project basis, often working remotely for various clients. In contrast, a Mechanical Design Engineer focuses on designing mechanical components and systems, typically within a company or manufacturing setting. Both roles require engineering credentials, but their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cfd Simulation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Cfd Simulation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Cfd Simulation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Freelance Cfd Simulation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Cfd Simulation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Cfd Simulation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Freelance Cfd Simulation Engineer jobs near you

AI / Simulation Principal Engineer - Computational Fluid Dynamics

Ul Solutions

Northbrook, IL • On-site

$140 - $190/hr

Other

Re-posted 8 days ago

UL Solutions rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 120 rated laboratories

Job description

We are seeking a Principal Engineer – CFD Simulation Engineering to join our team. The ideal candidate will be a highly experienced technical leader with deep expertise in physics-based modeling and simulation, particularly in CFD, thermal-fluid sciences, fire and explosion modeling, refrigerant leakage, battery thermal runaway, combustion, multiphase flows, turbulence modeling, and electronic cooling.

A core requirement of this role is strong expertise in simulation Verification & Validation (V&V), including application of industry-recognized frameworks best practices for ensuring model credibility and reliability.

The candidate should have a strong background in applying advanced simulation methods to complex engineering problems involving product safety, certification, design validation, hazard analysis, and failure investigation. The candidate will be responsible for driving technical excellence, consistency, and engineering quality in simulation methodologies across global teams

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