AI / Simulation Principal Engineer - Computational Fluid Dynamics

Principal Engineer – CFD Simulation Engineering We are seeking a Principal Engineer – CFD Simulation Engineering to join our team. The ideal candidate will be a highly experienced technical leader with deep expertise in physics-based modeling and simulation, particularly in CFD, thermal-fluid sciences, fire and explosion modeling, refrigerant leakage, battery thermal runaway, combustion, multiphase flows, turbulence modeling, and electronic cooling. A core requirement of this role is strong expertise in simulation Verification & Validation (V&V), including application of industry-recognized frameworks best practices for ensuring model credibility and reliability. The candidate should have a strong background in applying advanced simulation methods to complex engineering problems involving product safety, certification, design validation, hazard analysis, and failure investigation. The candidate will be responsible for driving technical excellence, consistency, and engineering quality in simulation methodologies across global teams. Responsibilities and Qualifications Serve as the principal technical authority for advanced simulation projects involving CFD, fire/explosion, refrigerant leakage, battery thermal runaway, combustion, multiphase flows, turbulence modeling, and electronic cooling. Lead and enforce simulation Verification & Validation (V&V) methodologies, ensuring alignment with ASME V&V 10 / V&V 20 standards, NASA CFD and modeling credibility guidelines, Oberkampf & Roy (Verification and Validation in Scientific Computing) principles, etc. Define and implement best practices for: Code verification and solution verification; Model validation against experimental data; Uncertainty quantification (UQ); Sensitivity analysis; Grid convergence and mesh independence studies; Error estimation and documentation of model limitations; Establish model credibility frameworks for simulation-based decision-making, especially for safety-critical applications. Lead simulation-based investigations in: Refrigerant leakage and dispersion (flammability and ignition risk); Battery thermal runaway propagation and vent gas hazards; Fire, smoke, and explosion dynamics; Combustion and reacting flows; Multiphase and phase-change systems; Electronics cooling and thermal reliability. Ensure test-to-simulation correlation and apply structured V&V approaches to build confidence in simulation predictions. Develop and review technical reports and documentation with clear articulation of: Modeling assumptions; Validation evidence; Uncertainty bounds; Applicability and limitations of the model. Act as the technical approver/reviewer for high-impact simulation studies, ensuring V&V rigor before results are used for certification or decision-making. Guide teams in selecting appropriate modeling approaches (analytical, CFD, reduced order, and digital twins) based on required fidelity and validation maturity. Work closely with testing, certification, and regulatory teams to ensure simulation outputs are aligned with engineering standards and safety requirements. Mentor engineers on V&V best practices, simulation credibility, and physics-based modeling techniques. Contribute to the development of internal V&V guidelines, checklists, and simulation governance frameworks. Represent the organization in external technical forums, standard committees, and discussions related to simulation credibility and digital engineering. Ph.D. / Master’s in Mechanical, Aerospace, Chemical, Fire Engineering, Thermal Sciences, or related field (Ph.D. preferred) with 10–12+ years of experience in CFD, simulation, safety engineering, or applied R&D. The candidate is not only a subject-matter expert in simulation physics but also a recognized authority in simulation credibility and V&V. Must demonstrate the ability to bridge advanced physics modeling with structured validation frameworks, enabling confident decision-making in safety-critical applications. Proficiency in CFD tools: ANSYS Fluent, STAR-CCM+, OpenFOAM, CONVERGE, FDS. Strong fundamentals in turbulence (RANS, LES), heat transfer, combustion & fire modeling, and multiphase flows. Hands-on experience in refrigerant leakage & gas dispersion, fire/explosion modeling, thermal & safety simulations. Experience in test correlation, validation, and technical reporting. Ability to lead complex engineering problems and work with cross-functional teams. Strong communication and documentation skills. Experience in safety, certification, or regulated environments. Core Skills CFD Combustion Multiphase Flow Refrigerant Leakage Fire & Explosion V&V Thermal Analysis Risk Assessment Experience & Qualifications Exposure to UQ, risk-based modeling, or HPC. Basic scripting (Python/MATLAB). Total Rewards We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career. The estimated salary range for this position is $142,000 to $190,000 USD and is based on multiple factors, including job-related knowledge/skills, experience, geographical location, as well as other factors. This position is eligible for annual bonus compensation with a target payout of 20% of the base salary. Health benefits such as medical, dental and vision; wellness benefits such as mental and financial health; and retirement savings (401K) commensurate with the standard rewards offered in each individual location or country. We also provide full-time employees with paid time off including vacation (15 days), holiday and personal days (totaling 12 days) and sick time off (72 hours). Equal Employment Opportunity UL LLC has been and will continue to be an equal opportunity employer. To assure full implementation of this equal employment policy, we will take steps to assure that: Persons are recruited, hired, assigned and promoted without regard to race, color, age, sex or gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, religion, creed, national origin, ethnicity, citizenship, ancestry, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, pregnancy, marital or familial status, or any other protected category under applicable law. #J-18808-Ljbffr