Senior/Principal Computational Thermal/AeroThermal Analyst

Responsibilities

• Perform thermal, fluid dynamics, and reacting material research, modeling, and simulation to support national security missions.
• Use engineering analysis principles and computational methods to support the design and qualification of high-consequence engineered systems.
• Develop and utilize state-of-the-art tools for simulations involving turbulent flow, multiphase flow, and thermal-mechanical transport.
• Apply uncertainty quantification techniques and assess model credibility through verification and validation (V&V) principles.
• Collaborate with code development teams to implement novel models for high-performance computing (HPC) environments.
• Identify opportunities to automate and streamline analysis workflows to improve research efficiency.
• Serve as a technical bridge between physics analysis teams, software developers, and experimentalists.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., Mechanical, Aerospace, or Chemical Engineering) and five years of directly relevant experience.
• Strong background in thermal fluid science, including heat transfer or fluid dynamics.
• Experience with computational simulation applications or development.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a US DOE Q-level security clearance.
• Ability to work onsite in Livermore, CA (or Albuquerque, NM with regular travel to CA).

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a closely related field such as Applied Mathematics or Aerospace Engineering.
• Advanced proficiency in Python development and modern software engineering best practices.
• Experience with high-performance computing (HPC) environments and Linux.
• Expertise in Verification & Validation (V&V) and Uncertainty Quantification (UQ).
• Familiarity with AI/ML concepts and their integration into engineering workflows.
• Experience with mesh generation and complex modeling tools.

Benefits

• Flexible work arrangements including compressed workweeks (9/80 or 4/10 schedules).
• Generous vacation and paid time off.
• Exceptional 401k savings plan.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Wellness programs and on-site amenities.
• Relocation assistance.

About the Company

Sandia National Laboratories is the nation’s premier science and engineering lab for national security and technology innovation. We provide challenging work with significant global impact, utilizing some of the best research facilities and tools in the world to support national security, nuclear deterrence, and energy missions.