Computational Fluid Dynamics Engineer

Pentangle Tech Services | P5 Group
Charlotte, NC

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled CFD / Thermal Management CAE Specialist to lead the development and validation of thermal management solutions for electric and hybrid vehicle systems. The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in 3D thermal simulations, heat transfer analysis, and correlation of simulation results with physical testing.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement thermal management strategies for high-power components, including batteries, inverters, electric motors, and power electronics.
  • Perform detailed CFD and thermal simulations using tools such as ANSYS, GT-SUITE, and STAR-CCM+.
  • Evaluate and optimize cooling and heating systems under various operating conditions (e.g., high-speed driving, rapid acceleration, charging scenarios).
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with powertrain, electrical, and controls teams to integrate thermal solutions into overall vehicle design.
  • Analyze heat transfer and cooling performance of components such as radiators, heat exchangers, and HVAC systems.
  • Optimize battery thermal management to enhance performance, durability, and vehicle range across different environmental conditions.
  • Validate simulation models using real-world test data and refine models to improve accuracy.
  • Lead correlation activities between virtual simulations and physical testing; provide simulation-based sign-off.
  • Document analysis results and prepare detailed technical reports with actionable design recommendations.
  • Research and implement advanced cooling technologies (e.g., liquid cooling, phase change materials, thermal insulation).

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Engineering, or a related field.
  • Strong experience in CFD and thermal analysis within automotive or EV domains.
  • Proficiency in ANSYS, GT-SUITE, and STAR-CCM+.
  • Solid understanding of heat transfer, fluid dynamics, and thermal systems design.
  • Experience in battery thermal management and EV systems is highly preferred.
  • Proven ability to correlate simulation results with physical test data.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with electric or hybrid vehicle thermal systems.
  • Knowledge of advanced cooling technologies and system-level integration.
  • Prior experience in model validation and CAE sign-off processes.

Key Competencies

  • Thermal System Design & Optimization
  • CFD Modeling & Simulation
  • Model Correlation & Validation
  • Cross-functional Collaboration
  • Technical Reporting & Documentation

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