Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Engineer

Program Overview

Program management, engineering, and technical support for the Air Systems Group, focusing on research, systems engineering, and evaluation of naval air propulsion and power systems. Focus includes air-breathing engines, auxiliary power systems, helicopter transmissions, fuel systems, and propulsion system performance, supported by roles like data scientists, engineers, and chemists.

About The Role

Peraton is seeking a mid-level Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) engineer to provide support for our NAVAIR customer in Lexington Park/Patuxent River, MD. In this position you will have the opportunity to be part of critical jet aircraft and rotorcraft propulsion design and development projects. Be part of an exciting team making a difference for the US Naval Air Forces.

What you will do: 

• Primary duties will include supporting and enhancing ongoing fluid dynamics analysis projects in the Propulsion and Power organization
• You will use in-house tools to develop 3D flow models in support of our propulsion customers
• Current projects include the need to reduce flow separation, predict flow induced forcing on nozzles and inlets, and analyze heat transfer for current and future Navy aircraft systems
• Several projects involve proposing improved inlet and nozzle designs to improve the efficiency and durability of Navy and Marine Corps propulsion systems. This exciting work includes reviewing failure information from the fleet and providing accurate and rapid results to our customers
• As a CFD modeler, your work will include post-processing results and creating well-written status reports/presentations to non-experts (in the CFD field), such as program managers
• You will work both independently and as part of a collaborative team
• This fast-paced position requires an energetic person who can learn quickly and work well with the Technical Lead and other team members

Qualifications

What you will need: 

• Minimum of 8 years with BS/BA; Minimum of 6 years with MS/MA; Minimum of 3 years with PhD
• A minimum requirement of a BS degree in Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering, Physics or related engineering discipline; an advanced degree (PhD) is preferred
• A proven history of setting up, running, and assessing the quality of CFD simulations independently
• A background in rotorcraft, with familiarity in how they operate, their design considerations, and rotor blade modeling
• Experience using high-powered computers (such as the DoD HPC system) and intermediate to advanced experience with the Linux environment (command-line operations, file transfers, scripting)
• The ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret security clearance. In order to obtain a clearance, US Citizenship is required

Desired:

• 5+ years of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) experience
• Communication & Collaboration: You are a great communicator with experience collaborating across organizations and briefing both technical and non-technical external audiences
• CAD Proficiency: High proficiency with CAD software such as SpaceClaim, Solidworks, or Rhino, particularly with experience in mechanical model to fluid model conversion
• CFD Automation: Experience in scripting or CFD automation, such as writing submission, pre-, and post-processing scripts. Higher-level experience in self-automating CAD, meshing, input file generation, and batch submissions is highly valuable
• CFD Tool Experience: Working knowledge and experience with CharLES and/or Large Eddy Simulation (LES) tools for modeling aircraft-related flows or gas turbine engine flows
• Technical Depth: In-depth knowledge of the detailed mathematical models used in CFD/RANS/LES tools to simulate boundary layers, predict flow separation points, model compressibility effects (shocks), and model turbulence
• Specialized CFD Experience in:
• Lagrangian Sand Particle modeling and/or barrier filter modeling experience
• Icing risk assessment experience, including modeling droplet deposition, ice shape development, and associated distortion risks
• Specific experience or knowledge of military helicopter platforms

Details

Target Salary Range: $112,000 - $179,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual’s experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.

Benefits Statement: Peraton offers eligible employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, health savings account, short/long term disability, EAP, parental leave, 401(k), paid time off (PTO) for vacation, and company paid holidays. A full listing of available benefits can be viewed at 

Application Statements: The application period for the job is estimated to be 30 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in the role and the Company. During the review of your application, you may be required to participate in an on-camera interview, as well as participate in a process to verify your identity. Use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools of any kind during Peraton interviews is strictly prohibited unless the candidate has obtained prior written authorization. All interview responses must be the candidate’s own.

EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.