Multiphysics simulation and defense testing for aerospace and national security
CFD Research operates a specialized engineering firm anchored in C/C++, MATLAB, ANSYS, and simulation-focused tooling (Thermal Desktop, ABAQUS, ModelCenter). The tech stack reveals a company deeply embedded in physics-based modeling rather than software-as-product: no cloud infrastructure (no AWS/GCP), no data platforms, no modern observability. Hiring is engineering-heavy (35 of 49 roles) weighted toward senior and mid-level engineers, reflecting the need to scale complex, multi-disciplinary projects like hardware-in-the-loop test frameworks and hypersonic modeling — areas where experience compounds faster than junior hires can be productive.
Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama, CFD Research is a 100% employee-owned firm delivering modeling, simulation, software, and advanced testing services to government and defense contractors. The company operates across aerospace, defense, life sciences, energy, and materials sectors, with offices in Ohio and Florida. Core competencies span multiphysics simulation (ANSYS, MATLAB, Fortran-based tools), hardware-in-the-loop testing, imaging and sensing systems development, and flight-test post-analysis. Active projects include missile defense work, cryogenic fluid management, and ground-test performance analysis — work typically contracted by DoD and national labs rather than commercial enterprise.
Primarily C/C++, Python, MATLAB, ANSYS, ABAQUS, Thermal Desktop, SolidWorks, and Fortran. Also uses Kubernetes, Docker, GitLab, Enterprise Architect, and Rockwell Automation tooling for automation and PLCs.
Real-time hardware-in-the-loop test frameworks, missile defense systems, hypersonic modeling, cryogenic fluid management, next-generation imaging and sensing, and flight-test post-reconstruction analysis for defense and aerospace customers.
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