CFD Simulation Engineer – HVAC Flow and Ventilation

Job Title: CFD Simulation Engineer – HVAC Flow & Ventilation

Summary:

The Mid-Level CFD Simulation Engineer – HVAC Flow & Ventilation plays a key role in the design, validation, and optimization of airflow and thermal performance in HVAC products and building environments. This position involves independent execution of CFD simulations, interpretation of results, and technical support to R&D, product development, and systems engineering teams. The engineer contributes to enhanced system efficiency, occupant comfort, and indoor air quality through simulation-driven insights.

Key Responsibilities:

CFD Analysis & Execution

• Independently set up, run, and validate steady-state and transient CFD simulations related to airflow, ventilation, thermal management, and contaminant transport.

• Model components and full systems including ducts, air handlers, fan-coil units, chillers, and indoor spaces.

• Implement appropriate turbulence models, radiation models, and species transport as needed.

Design Optimization

• Support product design teams with simulation insights to refine HVAC product geometry, improve air mixing, reduce pressure losses, and enhance thermal uniformity.

• Perform parametric and sensitivity analyses for performance optimization and energy efficiency improvements.

Validation & Correlation

• Correlate CFD results with lab test data for validation of airflow, temperature, and humidity distributions.

• Recommend physical test points based on simulation hot spots or uncertainty zones.

• Document and address gaps between simulation predictions and experimental findings.

Reporting & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Deliver clear technical reports and visual presentations to stakeholders across engineering, product development, and testing.

• Contribute to cross-functional product development efforts including controls, thermal systems, and compliance engineering.

• Support design reviews and FMEA discussions with airflow and temperature performance data.

Key Focus Areas:

• CFD-driven design validation and optimization for HVAC components and systems

• Indoor air quality, thermal comfort, and ventilation performance modeling

• Integration of simulation results into product development workflows

• Performance correlation between digital models and lab testing

Qualifications:

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Thermal Engineering (required)

• Master’s degree in a related field with a CFD emphasis (preferred)

Experience:

• 3–6 years of experience in CFD simulation, preferably with HVAC, built environments, or thermal systems

• Track record of completed simulation projects tied to real-world HVAC applications

Software & Tools:

• Proficiency with major CFD platforms such as ANSYS Fluent, STAR-CCM+, COMSOL, or OpenFOAM

• Solid experience in CAD (SolidWorks, Autodesk, or equivalent) and meshing tools (ANSYS Meshing, snappyHexMesh, etc.)

• Knowledge of scripting (Python, MATLAB) for post-processing and automation is a plus

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong grasp of fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and turbulence modeling

• Ability to balance model accuracy with computational cost and development timelines

• Skilled in creating impactful technical visuals (streamlines, contours, thermal maps)

• Effective communicator with experience in cross-disciplinary technical discussions

• Familiarity with ASHRAE standards (55, 62.1) and building ventilation codes