Fluid Mechanical Design Engineer
Location
South West England, Gloucestershire, Filton
Job Type
Contract – Full-Time hours
Primary Industry
Aerospace and Aviation
Secondary Industry
Engineering
Job Description
The Fluid Mechanical Design Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and analysing fluid systems and components within aerospace applications. This role involves working collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams to deliver innovative, reliable, and efficient fluid mechanical solutions that meet stringent aerospace standards and regulatory requirements. The position requires applying engineering principles to fluid flow, thermodynamics, and system integration, ensuring optimal performance and safety of aerospace systems.
Job Duties
Lead, Design and develop fluid mechanical components and systems including pumps, valves, ducts, and cooling systems for aerospace applications.
Conduct fluid dynamics simulations and analyses using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools to predict system performance and validate designs.
Perform detailed calculations involving fluid flow, pressure losses, heat transfer, and mechanical stresses to support design decisions.
Prepare technical drawings, specifications, and documentation in accordance with industry standards and project requirements.
Collaborate closely with project managers, manufacturing teams, and other engineering disciplines to ensure design feasibility and manufacturability.
Participate in design reviews, risk assessments, and failure mode analyses to identify and mitigate potential issues.
Support prototype testing and validation activities, analysing test data to refine designs as necessary.
Ensure compliance with aerospace regulations, quality standards, and health and safety requirements throughout the design process.
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of emerging fluid mechanical technologies and industry best practises to contribute to continuous improvement.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
Demonstrable experience in fluid mechanics design within the aerospace or aviation sectors.
Proficiency in computational fluid dynamics software and fluid system simulation tools.
Strong knowledge of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and heat transfer principles.
Experience producing detailed engineering drawings and technical documentation using CAD software.
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey complex technical information clearly.
Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team within a fast-paced project environment.
Education
Bachelor’s degree or above in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related subject.
Experience
Minimum of three years’ relevant experience in fluid mechanical design, preferably within aerospace or aviation industries.
Proven track record of delivering fluid system design projects from concept through to testing and validation.
Knowledge and Skills
In-depth understanding of fluid mechanics and thermodynamics as applied to aerospace systems.
Competence in using CFD software such as ANSYS Fluent, STAR-CCM+, or equivalent.
Proficiency in CAD software, for example CATIA, SolidWorks, or equivalent platforms.
Familiarity with aerospace standards and regulations, including safety and quality assurance processes.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
Effective time management and organisational skills to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s degree or higher in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
Chartered Engineer status or working towards professional registration.
Experience with high-pressure and cryogenic fluid systems.
Knowledge of materials selection and manufacturing processes relevant to fluid mechanical components.
Understanding of control systems and instrumentation related to fluid systems.
Working Conditions
Primarily office-based work located in Gloucestershire, Filton, with occasional visits to manufacturing or test facilities.
Standard full-time hours with flexibility to accommodate project deadlines and occasional extended hours.
Work involves use of computer-based design and simulation tools, requiring prolonged periods at a workstation.
Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams often requires effective communication across different locations or time zones.
Compliance with health and safety procedures in the workplace and during site visits is essential