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Phd Cfd Computational Engineer Jobs in Minnesota

BAE Systems

Eng Prin - Mod & Sim

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$118K - $200K/yr

Responsibilities include the development and application of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD ... Master's and PhD degrees in Mechanical or Aerospace engineering with emphasis in fluid mechanics ...

TEL

Process Engineer III

Chaska, MN · On-site

$78K - $110K/yr

Familiarity with finite element analysis (FEA), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), or particle-in-cell (PIC) plasma simulations. * Programming experience in Python, MATLAB, or similar scientific ...

TEL

Process Engineer III

Chaska, MN · On-site

$78K - $110K/yr

Familiarity with finite element analysis (FEA), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), or particle-in-cell (PIC) plasma simulations. * Programming experience in Python, MATLAB, or similar scientific ...

Kitware

Computational Imaging Researcher

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$125K - $170K/yr

Kitware's computational imaging team uses traditional and non-traditional image sensors in novel ... PhD in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Optics, or related field * Strong publication ...

Kitware

Computational Imaging Researcher

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$125K - $170K/yr

Kitware's computational imaging team uses traditional and non-traditional image sensors in novel ... PhD in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Optics, or related field * Strong publication ...

micro1 AI

Bioinformatics Software Engineer

Rochester, MN · Remote

$80 - $110/hr

Advanced expertise in Computational Biology, Cheminformatics, Medicinal Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related fields; advanced degree (PhD, MSc, PharmD) highly valued but not strictly required.

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Phd Cfd Computational Engineer information

What is a PhD CFD computational engineer?

A PhD CFD Computational Engineer is an expert who holds a doctoral degree and specializes in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). They use advanced mathematics, physics, and computer simulations to analyze fluid flows and related physical phenomena. These engineers develop and apply CFD models to solve complex engineering problems in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and energy. Their work often involves research, code development, and optimization of fluid systems to improve performance and efficiency.

What are typical collaboration opportunities for a PhD CFD computational engineer within a multidisciplinary team?

As a PhD CFD Computational Engineer, you frequently collaborate with mechanical engineers, software developers, and experimental scientists to ensure simulation models accurately reflect real-world scenarios. You may work closely with design teams to optimize product performance based on CFD results, and with IT specialists to implement high-performance computing solutions. Effective communication and teamwork are vital, as your input often influences design choices, testing procedures, and project timelines.

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

To thrive as a PhD CFD Computational Engineer, you need deep expertise in fluid dynamics, numerical methods, and advanced programming, typically backed by a doctoral degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CFD software (such as ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM), high-performance computing environments, and coding languages like C++ or Python is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies enable you to develop accurate simulations, interpret complex data, and collaborate effectively on multidisciplinary engineering projects.

What is the difference between Phd Cfd Computational Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectPhd Cfd Computational EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsPhD in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace, or related field; CFD certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering; some roles may require certifications
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, simulation centers, aerospace or automotive industriesDesign offices, manufacturing plants, R&D departments
Industry UsageSpecialized CFD modeling, simulation, and analysis for fluid dynamics problemsDesign, analysis, and testing of mechanical systems, including fluid systems

The main difference is that Phd Cfd Computational Engineers focus on advanced fluid dynamics simulations and research, often requiring a PhD and specialized CFD expertise. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, including design and manufacturing, with less emphasis on specialized CFD work. Both roles are vital in industries like aerospace, automotive, and energy, but they differ in their focus and level of specialization.

What are popular job titles related to Phd Cfd Computational Engineer jobs in Minnesota?

For Phd Cfd Computational Engineer jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Phd Cfd Computational Engineer jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Phd Cfd Computational Engineer jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Phd Cfd Computational Engineer jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Phd Cfd Computational Engineer job openings:

Phd Cfd Computational Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phd Cfd Computational Engineer job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Principal CFD Engineer - Hydrodynamic Systems

New Brighton, MN

Verterra Energy
Clean Energy Semiconductors Manufacturing • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about Verterra Energyexternal

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Role Overview

You will lead computational fluid dynamics modeling efforts for Verterra's turbine systems and related platforms.

You will define modeling strategy, boundary conditions, mesh approach, turbulence models, and validation methods. You will work directly with mechanical and test engineers to ensure CFD results inform blade geometry, structural loads, fatigue expectations, and overall system efficiency.

We are open to full-time, part-time, or 1099 arrangements for the right subject matter expert.

Core Responsibilities

Hydrodynamic Modeling

  • Develop and execute 3D CFD models of rotating turbine systems in open-water environments
  • Model turbulent, unsteady, and cyclic flow conditions
  • Support blade and housing geometry optimization
  • Evaluate flow separation, wake behavior, cavitation risk, and efficiency tradeoffs

Modeling Strategy & Validation

  • Define appropriate turbulence models and simulation fidelity
  • Develop mesh strategies for rotating machinery and complex geometries
  • Establish convergence and validation criteria
  • Correlate CFD outputs with experimental data from flume and field testing
  • Identify when simulation assumptions break down

Load & System Integration

  • Extract pressure and force distributions for structural loading analysis
  • Support fatigue and cyclic loading estimation
  • Work cross-functionally with structural and mechanical engineers
  • Translate fluid results into manufacturable design recommendations

Environmental & Operational Conditions

  • Model debris interaction scenarios and flow disturbance cases
  • Evaluate performance in variable flow velocities
  • Understand long-term exposure considerations in real water systems

Documentation & Decision Support

  • Present results in clear, engineering-driven formats
  • Identify design tradeoffs and uncertainty bands
  • Support design reviews with defensible analysis
  • Document modeling assumptions and limitations

Minimum Qualifications

  • 8+ years of professional CFD experience (12+ for Principal level)
  • Demonstrated experience modeling external fluid flow systems
  • Experience with rotating machinery or turbine systems
  • Deep understanding of turbulence modeling and numerical stability
  • Experience correlating CFD results to physical testing
  • Ability to independently define modeling strategy

Preferred Qualifications

  • Marine, riverine, or open-water flow modeling experience
  • Experience with cavitation prediction
  • Experience modeling debris interaction or multiphase flow
  • Experience supporting hardware programs from early prototype through validation
  • Experience working in small, engineering-driven teams

What Success Looks Like

  • CFD informs geometry decisions early and reduces physical iteration cycles
  • Simulation results correlate closely with flume or field testing
  • Load predictions meaningfully support structural design
  • Design decisions are made based on physics, not aesthetics
  • Modeling assumptions are documented and defensible

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Company-paid life, disability, and basic protection
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Unlimited paid time off + 2 weeks sick and safe leave
  • 7 company-paid holidays: New Year's Day (January 1), Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, the Friday after Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day
  • Stocked kitchen

Equal opportunity

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