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Hypersonic Cfd Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Stratolaunch

CFD Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

Conduct advanced CFD analyses of captive carry and hypersonic vehicles, with emphasis on: * Interference effects (e.g., multi-body, control surface, propulsion-airframe interactions) * High-speed ...

Stratolaunch

CFD Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site +1

Conduct advanced CFD analyses of captive carry and hypersonic vehicles, with emphasis on: * Interference effects (e.g., multi-body, control surface, propulsion-airframe interactions) * High-speed ...

Inversion

Staff Aerothermal CFD Engineer

Vista, CA · On-site

$161K - $221K/yr

These systems open the door to new ways of testing, delivering, and operating at hypersonic speeds ... This is a unique opportunity to help define the CFD strategy for groundbreaking technology ...

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA

... Hypersonic CFD codes, such as US3D Proficiency in LabView Proficiency in MATLAB A proven track record of peer-reviewed publications Preferred Qualifications Expertise in high-speed turbulent flows ...

Inversion

Staff Aerothermal CFD Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$161K - $221K/yr

These systems open the door to new ways of testing, delivering, and operating at hypersonic speeds ... This is a unique opportunity to help define the CFD strategy for groundbreaking technology ...

KBR

Hypersonic Systems Engineer Level IV

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$190K - $262K/yr

Experience with aero-thermal, structural, or CFD tools * Experience with hypersonic systems or high-temperature materials * Active Secret clearance Preferred Qualifications * Active TS/SCI clearance

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How much do hypersonic cfd jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for hypersonic cfd in the United States is $93,015.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,500.00 and $110,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in hypersonic CFD roles?

Professionals in hypersonic CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) roles often encounter challenges such as accurately modeling complex flow phenomena like shock waves, high-temperature gas effects, and aerodynamic heating. These simulations require advanced numerical methods and high-performance computing resources due to the extreme speeds and temperatures involved. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including experimentalists and material scientists—is common to validate simulations and integrate results into larger engineering projects. Staying updated with the latest simulation tools and research is essential for success in this rapidly evolving field.

What is hypersonic CFD?

Hypersonic CFD, or Computational Fluid Dynamics for hypersonic flows, refers to the use of computer simulations to analyze and predict the behavior of gases moving at speeds greater than five times the speed of sound (Mach 5+). This field is critical for designing vehicles like re-entry spacecraft, missiles, and high-speed aircraft, where extreme temperatures and shock waves present unique challenges. Hypersonic CFD helps engineers understand airflow, heat transfer, and aerodynamic forces, enabling the development of safer and more efficient high-speed vehicles.

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

To thrive as a Hypersonic CFD Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering or a related field, with expertise in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and high-speed aerodynamics. Familiarity with CFD software such as ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, or NASA's OVERFLOW, as well as programming skills in languages like Python or Fortran, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills are crucial for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and interpreting complex data. These skills ensure accurate modeling and analysis of hypersonic flows, which are vital for designing safe and efficient high-speed aerospace vehicles.

What is the difference between Hypersonic Cfd vs Aerodynamics Engineer?

AspectHypersonic CfdAerodynamics Engineer
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, CFD certifications, specialized training in hypersonic flowsEngineering degree, CFD experience, aerodynamics coursework
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, aerospace industry, high-performance computingAircraft design, wind tunnels, aerospace or automotive sectors
Industry UsageHypersonic flight, space vehicles, missile technologyAircraft, automotive, sports equipment

Hypersonic Cfd specialists focus on simulating and analyzing airflow at hypersonic speeds, often involving complex physics and high-performance computing. In contrast, Aerodynamics Engineers work on a broader range of aerodynamic problems across various speeds and industries. While both roles require CFD skills and engineering backgrounds, Hypersonic Cfd is specialized for high-speed, high-temperature environments, whereas Aerodynamics Engineers typically work on subsonic and supersonic applications.

Are hypersonic CFD engineers in demand?

Hypersonic CFD engineers are in increasing demand due to the growing focus on high-speed aerospace and defense applications. These engineers typically work with advanced simulation tools and require expertise in fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and computational modeling, making their skills highly valuable in research and development sectors.
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Hypersonic Cfd jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hypersonic Cfd job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $93,015 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

CFD Engineer

Stratolaunch

Mojave, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.
To support these efforts, Stratolaunch is seeking a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Engineer (Level II or Senior level) to join our advanced hypersonic design team. In this role, you will support the conceptual and detailed design of current and future Stratolaunch hypersonic vehicles, focusing on advanced CFD analyses, aerodynamic and aerothermal modeling, and the development of analytical tools. Responsibilities include contributing to design trade studies, detailed analyses, tool development, and flight test support. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in aerodynamics and aerothermal analysis, with hands-on experience modeling complex flow interactions across the subsonic to hypersonic flight regimes.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Conduct advanced CFD analyses of captive carry and hypersonic vehicles, with emphasis on:
    • Interference effects (e.g., multi-body, control surface, propulsion-airframe interactions)
    • High-speed, high-enthalpy flows (Mach 5+) aero and aerothermal predictions
  • Develop, manage, and validate large CFD databases for a variety of vehicle configurations using CFD and supporting test data
  • Contribute to aerodynamic and aerothermal databases by integrating analytical, numerical, wind tunnel, and flight test data
  • Support trajectory analysis and optimization for current and future vehicles
  • Analyze wind tunnel and flight test data as required to validate CFD models
  • Develop and maintain CFD automation tools to support the team
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate CFD results into broader vehicle design and performance analyses
  • Support business proposals and technical presentations to government and industry partners

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential responsibility satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree (B.S.) in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
  • 2+ years (Level II) or 5+ years (Senior) of relevant engineering experience, or an equivalent combination of industry experience and applied graduate work
  • Proficiency in CFD meshing techniques using tools such as Pointwise, ANSA, or Link3D to generate high-quality meshes for complex geometries
  • Strong foundation in aerodynamics, aerothermal dynamics, and flight mechanics
  • Proficiency with at least one major CFD solver (e.g., US3D, Fun3D, StarCCM+, Kestrel)
  • Programming/scripting skills (Python, MATLAB, or similar) for automation and post-processing
  • Ability to work independently and adapt to changing priorities
  • Willing and able to obtain and maintain a security clearance

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with hypersonic aerodynamic theory and analysis
  • Demonstrated expertise in CFD for subsonic, transonic, or hypersonic flows
  • Experience complex CFD simulations including multibody interactions, plume, scramjet, or aero heating predictions
  • Familiarity with advanced meshing techniques including overset meshing and fully structured meshes on complex vehicles
  • Experience developing and managing large CFD databases
  • Experience conducting CFD and related tasks on HPC resources
  • Proficient in lofting compound surfaces for aerospace vehicles
  • Experience with CFD analysis tools - preferred: US3D, Fun3D, Pointwise, ANSA Link3D, StarCCM+, Kestrel, Tecplot, Paraview
  • Experience with computer-aided design (CAD) software tools - preferred: Siemens NX
  • Active security clearance

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
  • Level II ($101,079-$146,500): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 2-5 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Sr-Level ($120,500-$158,000): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 5-10 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable
  • While Stratolaunch is headquartered in Mojave, CA, this position offers flexibility in work location. Remote, hybrid, and on-site arrangements are all available based on candidate preference and business needs.
  • Travel, as needed, to support the department. Travel estimated to be <5%.

Base salary and leveling are established on a case-by-case basis. We consider several factors to ensure a competitive offer, including your location, educational background, and a comprehensive assessment of the skills and experience demonstrated during your interviews.
Benefits and our location(s):
  • 9/80 schedule
  • Healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)
  • Paid Maternity and Parental Leave
  • 50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500
  • Tuition reimbursement

This position may involve the operation of company vehicles as part of assigned duties.
Mojave Air & Spaceport is located just outside of Lancaster/Palmdale and is only 95 miles north of Los Angeles. The area offers both affordability and central access to a variety of California's best attractions and landmarks.
Not much for the outdoors and prefer the city life? You're within a half day's drive or less of Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, and San Francisco where you can find a variety of live entertainment, museums, tours, and historical sight-seeing. Theme parks are in abundance, with Six Flags Magic Mountain, Disneyland, and Knotts Berry Farm ready to meet the needs of rollercoaster thrill seekers.
Food and drink fanatics are in a haven of delectable choices. Wine aficionados will also find easy access to some of the state's best vino in Paso Robles, Santa Ynez, and even more locally in Tehachapi and Agua Dulce. Beer fanatics will find some of the best West Coast IPAs at Bravery and Lucky Luke's in Lancaster. Any food option you crave is covered, and we always recommend the authentic and fresh Mexican food that you won't find anywhere else in the United States.
Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at our company. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Our management team does not tolerate discrimination or harassment at any point during our employees' and applicants' time with us, especially with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment. For purposes of transparency, U.S. Citizenship may be required for some positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.
Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law :
https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf

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