The Senior CFD Simulation Engineer – HVAC Flow & Ventilation leads the development, execution, and validation of complex computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to optimize HVAC system performance. This role provides expert-level analysis for airflow, thermal comfort, ventilation efficiency, and contaminant dispersion. The engineer partners closely with R&D, design, and testing teams to inform product architecture, validate performance claims, and drive innovation in energy-efficient and healthy building environments.
Lead simulation projects involving multiphysics problems including airflow, heat transfer, humidity control, and indoor air quality.
Design and validate full-system models of AHUs, chillers, heat exchangers, ventilation layouts, and duct systems.
Employ turbulence models (RANS, LES), conjugate heat transfer, radiation, and species transport in complex simulations.
Influence early product design through simulation-driven recommendations and concept validation.
Develop best practices, templates, and standardized workflows for HVAC CFD analysis across teams.
Support new product introductions (NPIs) with robust simulation plans integrated into stage-gate development.
Plan and coordinate validation experiments with test labs to verify airflow, thermal maps, and sensor readings.
Drive simulation correlation efforts with measurement data and refine models for predictive accuracy.
Define critical design parameters, acceptable ranges, and tolerances based on validated simulation results.
Mentor junior CFD and thermal engineers on solver settings, mesh quality, and physics interpretation.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams (mechanical, electrical, controls, compliance) to support regulatory and performance certifications.
Engage in cross-site knowledge sharing and technology benchmarking.
Deliver executive-ready technical reports, visuals, and performance trade-off analysis.
Represent simulation findings in design reviews, regulatory submissions, and customer presentations.
Support IP generation and patent filings related to thermal/fluid innovations.
High-fidelity CFD simulation leadership for HVAC system design and performance optimization
Indoor air distribution, contaminant control, and energy-efficient airflow strategies
Design validation and correlation with experimental test data
Simulation strategy integration into HVAC product development
Technical mentoring and knowledge leadership
Master’s or Ph.D. in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Thermal Engineering with a CFD or HVAC focus
Bachelor’s degree with extensive hands-on CFD experience may be considered
7–12+ years of experience in CFD modeling, ideally focused on HVAC systems, built environment simulations, or ventilation products
Demonstrated leadership in simulation for new product development, R&D, or advanced engineering projects
Expert-level proficiency in ANSYS Fluent, Simcenter STAR-CCM+, or OpenFOAM
Strong CAD/mesh integration (SolidWorks, Creo, ANSYS SpaceClaim, or similar)
Experience with scripting and automation tools (Python, MATLAB, journal files)
Familiarity with digital twin models and real-time simulation frameworks is a plus
Deep understanding of HVAC airflow dynamics, thermal comfort standards (ASHRAE 55), and ventilation codes (ASHRAE 62.1, ISO 7730)
Ability to solve nonlinear, coupled problems with advanced modeling techniques
Excellent technical communication, report writing, and visualization capabilities
Strong problem-solving skills, project leadership, and cross-functional collaboration