CFD Analyst

Valar Atomics • Hawthorne, CA

4d • $120,000 - $165,000

About The Position

At Valar Atomics, we are seeking a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Analyst to lead advanced fluid flow and thermal simulation efforts for next-generation nuclear systems. In this role, you will develop high-fidelity CFD models that support reactor design optimization, system performance evaluation, and safety analysis. You will work closely with engineering teams to solve complex thermal-fluid challenges, validate analytical methods, and help advance innovative nuclear technologies from concept through deployment.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in CFD modeling and simulation, preferably in the energy or nuclear sector.
• Proficiency in ANSYS Fluent (Preferred) or similar CFD tools.
• Solid understanding of heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and numerical methods.
• Experience in performing thermal-fluid analysis, turbulence modeling, and simulation optimization.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States as a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder).

Nice To Haves

• Experience with cloud-based simulation workflows (e.g., AWS).
• Familiarity with model-based systems engineering (MBSE) principles.
• Knowledge of nuclear industry safety protocols and regulatory requirements
• Previous experience in the nuclear industry and familiarity with High Temperature Gas Cooled Reactors (HTGRs).
• Experience with multi-physics simulations (for example conjugate heat transfer, radiation, or fluid–structure interaction) is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Develop and validate CFD models for nuclear reactor systems, including thermal-hydraulic and fluid dynamics simulations using tools such as ANSYS Fluent (Preferred).
• Perform geometry pre-processing, mesh generation, turbulence modeling, and multiphase flow analysis to ensure accurate representation of complex physical phenomena.
• Integrate CFD results with experimental data and system-level models to improve predictive accuracy and reliability.
• Leverage AWS or other cloud platforms for large-scale simulations and computationally intensive analyses.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define CFD requirements and incorporate insights into design and testing processes.
• Prepare and present technical reports and visualizations to stakeholders, clearly communicating simulation results and recommendations.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary
• Equity ownership in a rapidly growing advanced energy company
• Comprehensive medical benefits
• Free daily lunch and dinner provided onsite
• High-impact startup environment with significant ownership and autonomy
• Opportunities for rapid career growth and internal advancement
• Direct collaboration with experienced operators, engineers, and industry leaders
• The opportunity to help build and scale transformative energy technology from the ground up

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level