A control system may include a recirculation circuit configured to direct fluid from an outlet of a fluid pump, via a first portion of the recirculation circuit, to an inlet of the fluid pump via a second portion of the recirculation circuit. The control system may include a control valve and a choke valve in the recirculation circuit. The control system may include a controller configured to identify, based on a differential pressure that is based on a first pressure of the fluid in the first portion and a second pressure of the fluid in the second portion while the control valve is closed, a position for the choke valve that is to result in a flow velocity of the fluid through the control valve that is below a threshold, and configured to cause actuation of the choke valve in accordance with the position.