Lead CFD Engineer - Aerodynamics Specialist

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Exceptional salary package

Medical and retirement benefits

Performance-based bonuses

Professional growth opportunities

Cutting-edge research facilities

Exposure to groundbreaking projects

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton seeks a Lead CFD Engineer specializing in aerodynamics to lead high‑fidelity simulations that optimize drag and flow. The role centers on developing and validating CFD methodologies, guiding a team of engineers, and delivering actionable design insights for automotive and aerospace applications.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD or MSc in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, 7+ years in CFD, and expertise with ANSYS Fluent, CFX, STAR-CCM+.

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc with CFD focus.
• 7+ years of CFD experience focused on aerodynamics.
• Proficient in ANSYS Fluent/CFX/STAR-CCM+.
• Strong data analysis and visualization skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex CFD projects delivering high-fidelity aerodynamic simulations.
• Develop and validate advanced CFD models and methodologies.
• Pre-process, solve, and post-process 3D CFD simulations.
• Collaborate with design engineers to interpret results and provide design guidance.
• Mentor junior CFD engineers and foster technical excellence.
• Stay abreast of CFD advancements in turbulence modeling and meshing.
• Present simulation results to internal teams and clients.
• Contribute to in-house CFD tool development and workflows.
• Ensure accuracy and reliability through rigorous validation.

Skills

CFD expertise

Leadership

Python

MATLAB

Education

PhD or MSc in ME/Aerospace

Tools

ANSYS Fluent

CFX

STAR-CCM+

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a world-renowned leader in advanced engineering solutions for the automotive and aerospace sectors, is seeking an exceptional Lead CFD Engineer with specialized expertise in aerodynamics to join their prestigious research and development center in Sandton. This high-impact role will lead critical projects focused on optimizing fluid flow and aerodynamic performance through advanced Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. You will be instrumental in driving innovation, providing crucial insights that enhance product design and performance across multiple high-stakes industries. This position is for a true expert passionate about pushing the boundaries of fluid dynamics simulation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead complex CFD projects, developing high-fidelity simulations to analyze aerodynamic performance, drag reduction, and airflow optimization.
• Develop and validate advanced CFD models and methodologies using industry-leading software (e.g., ANSYS Fluent, STAR-CCM+).
• Pre-process, solve, and post-process complex 3D CFD simulations for various applications.
• Collaborate with design engineers and aerodynamicists to interpret simulation results and provide actionable design recommendations.
• Mentor and guide junior CFD engineers, fostering technical excellence within the team.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in CFD techniques, turbulence modeling, and meshing strategies.
• Present complex simulation results and technical findings to internal teams and external clients.
• Contribute to the development of in-house CFD tools and workflows.
• Ensure the accuracy and reliability of simulation results through rigorous validation processes.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field with a strong focus on CFD and fluid dynamics.
• Minimum of 7 years of hands-on experience in CFD analysis, with a significant portion dedicated to aerodynamics.
• Expertise in commercial CFD software packages such as ANSYS Fluent, CFX, or STAR-CCM+.
• Strong understanding of fluid mechanics, turbulence modeling, heat transfer, and meshing techniques.
• Proven ability to develop, validate, and implement advanced CFD methodologies.
• Excellent data analysis, interpretation, and visualization skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with scripting languages (e.g., Python, MATLAB) for automation is highly desirable.
• Must be eligible to work in South Africa and willing to work remotely with occasional on-site collaboration in Sandton.

Benefits

• exceptional salary package
• comprehensive medical and retirement benefits
• significant performance-based bonuses
• opportunities for professional growth
• cutting-edge research facilities
• exposure to groundbreaking projects in automotive and aerospace
• collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment
• opportunities to publish research and attend international conferences
• access to a vibrant innovation ecosystem
• Join a team that is defining the future of engineering.