Entry-Level Computational Fluid Dynamics Design Engineer

Computational Fluid Dynamics Design Engineer

At Salas O’Brien we tell our clients that we’re engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our projects. That’s why we’re committed to living our values every day: inspiring, achieving, and connecting as shared owners of our success with a focus on a sustainable future.

Building for the long-term means that all of our team members can expect to work on amazing projects with a people-first approach to problem solving. It also means that each member of our team has truly limitless potential to build a unique, meaningful, and high-impact career—and they’ll receive great total rewards along the way.

Job Summary: We are seeking a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Design Engineer to support advanced airflow, fire, and ventilation analysis across a wide range of building and infrastructure projects. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys applying physics-based modeling to real-world challenges and collaborating across disciplines to deliver high-impact solutions. 

In this position, you will develop and execute CFD simulations, interpret complex data, and translate technical findings into clear, actionable insights for project teams and clients. You will work closely with senior engineers, architects, and multidisciplinary teams to solve problems related to airflow, smoke control, and environmental performance in the built environment.

Responsibilities:

• Develop computational models and perform simulations concerning:
  • Wind Dispersion analyses
  • Fire and Smoke studies
  • Ventilation Effectiveness
  • And other applications concerning air flow throughout the built environment
• Work with Senior CFD Engineer, Engineers of various disciplines, and Principals as well as Architects and other collaborators
• Independently perform assignments after receiving information on project type and scope
• Interpret drawings, cutsheets, and other mechanical information to collect model input parameters
• Independently set up and execute CFD problems using specialized software (STAR-CCM+)
• Analyze simulated solutions, verify results, and discuss conclusions
• Compile and create descriptive reports from CFD calculated model output data
• Comfortably communicate and present CFD related information and results to our clients and within Salas O’Brien
• Read and interpret research papers and technical publications for application to CFD analyses
• Calculate physical relationships and develop mathematical parameters to implement and study within CFD models
• Efficiently utilize various software packages to construct 3D CAD models for CFD input geometry (Blender, Revit)
• Interpret and develop software macros and user defined functions to streamline project operations (Java, Python, VBA)
• Navigate Linux OS environment (Basic experienced preferred)

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Engineering Physics, Physics, or other disciplines that may be applicable to CFD (Master’s preferred)
• Prior CFD experience (preferred)
• Entry level candidates welcome to apply

Location: Rochester, NY- onsite 

Travel: Up to 15%

Compensation & Benefits:

The expected base salary range for this role is $62,400 - $72,500 USD per year. Actual compensation will be determined based on a number of factors including skills, experience, qualifications, and location.

This role is also eligible for performance-based bonuses and a comprehensive U.S. based benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
• Professional development support

For more information, visit our full benefits overview here.

About Us:

Founded in 1975, Salas O’Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We know that tomorrow’s requirements are today’s opportunities, and we are here to design lasting solutions for pressing challenges.

We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more.

Our technical expertise is paired with an exceptional team of business development, human resources, finance and accounting, information technology, and marketing professionals, all of whom play a key role in bringing our commitments to life every day.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

Salas O’Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, or local laws. Salas O’Brien will accommodate the disability-related needs of applicants as required by law.

Qualifications Education Required Bachelors or better. Preferred Masters or better. Experience Preferred Prior CFD experience (preferred) Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.