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Hydrodynamic Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SpaceX

Turbomachinery Engineer (Raptor)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

TURBOMACHINERY ENGINEER (RAPTOR) SpaceX is seeking a highly motivated Turbomachinery Engineer to ... Conduct coupled aerodynamic/hydrodynamic and mechanical design and demonstrate a broad ...

SpaceX

Turbomachinery Engineer (Raptor)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

TURBOMACHINERY ENGINEER (RAPTOR) SpaceX is seeking a highly motivated Turbomachinery Engineer to ... Conduct coupled aerodynamic/hydrodynamic and mechanical design and demonstrate a broad ...

SpaceX

Turbomachinery Engineer (Raptor)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

TURBOMACHINERY ENGINEER (RAPTOR) SpaceX is seeking a highly motivated Turbomachinery Engineer to ... Conduct coupled aerodynamic/hydrodynamic and mechanical design and demonstrate a broad ...

LLNL

Senior Mechanical Engineering Analyst

Livermore, CA · On-site

$210K - $267K/yr

You will develop computational models using custom, in-house codes, conduct engineering analysis of full weapon systems and components in thermal, quasi-static, dynamic, and hydrodynamic environments ...

LLNL

Senior Mechanical Engineering Analyst

Livermore, CA · On-site

$9.7K/wk

You will develop computational models using custom, in-house codes, conduct engineering analysis of full weapon systems and components in thermal, quasi-static, dynamic, and hydrodynamic environments ...

LLNL

Senior Mechanical Engineering Analyst

Livermore, CA

$210K - $267K/yr

You will develop computational models using custom, in-house codes, conduct engineering analysis of full weapon systems and components in thermal, quasi-static, dynamic, and hydrodynamic environments ...

Kavaliro

L5 / L6 Rocket Engineer

Canoga Park, CA · On-site

$109K - $149K/yr

This role requires strong understanding of aerodynamics, thermodynamics, and hydrodynamics, and ... Work with designers and project engineers by providing analysis support. Required Skills:

LLNL

Explosives Research Experiment Lead

Livermore, CA · On-site

$9.8K/wk

Contribute original scientific/engineering solutions to the design of hydrodynamic experiments, applying knowledge and skills. * Develop experimental requirements and assist with or contribute to the ...

LLNL

Explosives Research Experiment Lead

Livermore, CA · On-site

$120K - $158K/yr

Contribute original scientific/engineering solutions to the design of hydrodynamic experiments, applying knowledge and skills. * Develop experimental requirements and assist with or contribute to the ...

LLNL

Explosives Research Experiment Lead

Livermore, CA · Hybrid

$120K - $158K/yr

Contribute original scientic/engineering solutions to the design of hydrodynamic experiments, applying knowledge and skills. * Develop experimental requirements and assist with or contribute to the ...

LLNL

Mechanical - Structural Analyst

Livermore, CA · On-site

$9.7K/wk

Your work will support engineering design, testing, and certification of the nation's nuclear ... hydrodynamic analysis through FEA. Qualifications We Desire * Experience with finite element ...

L3HHCM20

$102K - $189K/yr

This role requires strong understanding of aerodynamics, thermodynamics, hydrodynamics, and bearing ... Work with designers and project engineers by providing analysis support * May coordinate risk and ...

LLNL

Mechanical - Structural Analyst

Livermore, CA

Your work will support engineering design, testing, and certification of the nation's nuclear ... hydrodynamic analysis through FEA. Qualifications We Desire * Experience with finite element ...

Leidos

Research Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

The qualified Research Engineer will be part of a strong team of scientists and engineers in our ... Experience in hydrodynamics, computational fluid mechanics, and physical oceanography. Additional ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsHydrodynamic Engineer JobsHydrodynamic Engineer Jobs in California

Hydrodynamic Engineer information

See California salary details

$35.3K

$102.9K

$169.9K

How much do hydrodynamic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydrodynamic engineer in California is $102,924.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,890.00 and $125,830.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Hydrodynamic Engineer vs Marine Engineer?

AspectHydrodynamic EngineerMarine Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Naval Architecture, or Marine Engineering; often includes fluid dynamics certificationsBachelor's in Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Naval Architecture; may include marine-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentDesigning and analyzing fluid flow around ships, offshore structures, or underwater vehiclesMaintaining and repairing ship machinery, engines, and onboard systems
Industry UsageShip design, offshore engineering, naval architectureShip operation, maintenance, and repair in maritime industry

Hydrodynamic Engineers focus on fluid flow analysis and design related to watercraft and offshore structures, while Marine Engineers handle the operation and maintenance of ship machinery. Both roles require engineering degrees and are integral to maritime industries, but their daily tasks and specializations differ significantly.

What does a Hydrodynamic Engineer do?

A Hydrodynamic Engineer specializes in studying and designing systems involving the movement of fluids, particularly water. They analyze how fluids interact with structures like ships, offshore platforms, and pipelines to ensure safety, efficiency, and performance. Their work often involves computational modeling, laboratory experiments, and field testing to solve complex engineering challenges. Hydrodynamic engineers are commonly employed in industries such as maritime, offshore oil and gas, and renewable energy (like wave and tidal power).

What are some common challenges Hydrodynamic Engineers face when working on marine vessel design projects?

Hydrodynamic Engineers often encounter challenges such as optimizing vessel performance while balancing stability, speed, and fuel efficiency. They must analyze complex fluid dynamics and integrate their findings with input from structural and mechanical engineers, often working within tight project deadlines. Collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams and adapting to evolving simulation technologies are also key aspects of the role. These challenges require a strong foundation in computational modeling and excellent communication skills to ensure successful project outcomes.

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

To thrive as a Hydrodynamic Engineer, you generally need a strong background in fluid mechanics, mathematics, and engineering principles, usually supported by a degree in mechanical, civil, or marine engineering. Expertise in simulation software such as ANSYS Fluent, STAR-CCM+, and proficiency in CAD tools are commonly required, along with relevant certifications in engineering analysis. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills help professionals excel in this field. These competencies are crucial for designing safe and efficient systems that perform reliably under complex marine or fluid-related conditions.
What are popular job titles related to Hydrodynamic Engineer jobs in California? For Hydrodynamic Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Hydrodynamic Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Hydrodynamic Engineer jobs in California are:
Hydrodynamic Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydrodynamic Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,924 per year, or $49.5 per hour.
Senior Propulsion & Hydrodynamics Engineer

Senior Propulsion & Hydrodynamics Engineer

Anduril Industries

Costa Mesa, CA • On-site

$112K - $154K/yr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

Anduril rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Anduril

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 74,355 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

ABOUT THE TEAM

Anduril's Maritime Division is responsible for planning and executing Anduril's product and revenue roadmap for maritime missions. Working across product, engineering, business development, logistics, and operations, the Maritime team develops, tests, deploys, and sustains the Anduril maritime capabilities in a challenging operational environment worldwide. As a leader in the Maritime Division, you must be a technical leader with the expertise to evaluate, qualify, manage, and advocate for an increasing number of sophisticated parallel pursuits. This role is crucial in ensuring that each initiative aligns with the company's strategic direction and receives the appropriate resourcing, balancing innovation with practical execution to drive the business line's success.

ABOUT THE JOB

You will own propulsion and hydrodynamic design for a maritime autonomous vehicle. Reporting to the Vehicle Systems Lead, you will lead thruster design and selection, hydrodynamic analysis, fairing optimization, and propulsive efficiency trades that directly determine vehicle range and endurance.
Your spectrum of support will be diverse in nature and require you to leverage your technical expertise as well as leadership skills to set objectives, build cross-functional teams, and rapidly drive to completion. The ability to leverage your intuition and prior experience will be key in making sure the right design, analysis, and test steps are completed to ensure success. The ideal candidate will leverage their experience executing and successfully completing prior highly optimized multi-disciplinary projects.

WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • Drive propulsion system design including thruster selection, integration, and performance
  • Drive hydrodynamic analysis: drag estimation, resistance prediction, and flow characterization
  • Drive fairing geometry design and hydrodynamic optimization
  • Define propulsion power requirements and coordinate with Energy Systems on power budget
  • Lead trade studies balancing speed, endurance, noise, and propulsive efficiency
  • Coordinate with thruster and fairing teams
  • Support prototype testing including sea trials
  • Contribute to design-for-manufacturability reviews
  • Travel up to 25% to test sites and vendor facilities
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in Naval Architecture, Ocean Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent
  • 5+ years of experience in marine propulsion, hydrodynamics, or vehicle performance analysis
  • Experience with CFD tools and hydrodynamic modeling
  • Familiarity with electric thruster systems or marine propulsion drives
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret security clearance
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience with AUV or UUV propulsion systems
  • Working knowledge of propeller or thruster design and optimization
  • Experience with propulsion testing
  • Familiarity with acoustic signature management
  • Experience in defense or maritime robotics

Working at Anduril

About Anduril, in their own words

From Anduril

As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril delivers cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the warfighter in months, not years.

What Anduril employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Anduril Industries logo

About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

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