Job Description Summary

As a GE Vernova accelerator, GE Vernova Advanced Research is driving strategy and leading research & development efforts to execute on the business’s mission to help power the energy transition. We forge the collaborations and help invent the technologies required to electrify and decarbonize for a zero-carbon future.

Representing virtually every major scientific and engineering discipline, our researchers are collaborating with GE Vernova’s businesses, the U.S. government, and more than 420 entities at the forefront of technology to execute on 150+ energy focused projects. Collectively, these research programs and initiatives aim to solve near term technical challenges, deliver next generation product advances, and drive long term breakthrough innovation to enable more affordable, reliable, sustainable, and secure energy.

At GE Vernova Advanced Research, we are shaping a clean energy future through breakthrough technologies. As a Lead Specialist in the Aerodynamics & Thermosciences lab, you will collaborate with a cross-disciplinary team of researchers to the develop and leverage advanced experimental systems that enable next-generation gas turbines, wind turbines, carbon capture, and thermal systems. You will solve complex technical challenges with broad impact across multiple programs, mentor junior staff, and serve as a recognized technical authority within the Advanced Research Center.

You will independently plan, design, and execute novel experimental methodologies, proactively identify capability gaps, and collaborate with leadership to develop strategic solutions. You will also lead the integration of new technologies into test systems and coach others to make sound technical decisions under uncertainty.

Job Description

Roles and Responsibilities

• Lead the design, build, and execution of complex, high-risk experimental rigs for aerodynamic, thermal, and combustion systems — including high-pressure, high-temperature, and high-flow environments.

• Own the end-to-end lifecycle of multiple experimental systems: from concept through design, procurement, instrumentation, operation, and sustainment — ensuring state-of-the-art capabilities.

• Develop and lead the implementation of new test methods and processes, applying scientific principles and leveraging your established technical network across GE or external partners.

• Proactively identify technical and operational gaps in current capabilities and lead cross-functional teams to develop and deploy innovative solutions.

• Mentor and coach technicians, engineers, and junior specialists — guiding them in technical problem-solving, experimental design, and decision-making under ambiguity.

• Systematically formulate hypotheses and design experiments to validate them, using advanced diagnostics (e.g., PIV, IR thermography, high-speed DAQ) and data analysis tools.

• Articulate and drive the roadmap for maintaining and advancing experimental capabilities — including identifying strategic partnerships and technology adoption.

• Serve as the primary technical authority for your domain within the lab, consulted by researchers, engineers, and leadership on complex technical issues.

• Lead safety, quality, and compliance for experimental systems — ensuring adherence to standards and continuous improvement.

Required Qualifications

• MS degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Thermal Sciences, or related field with a minimum of 7 years of experience in experimental research, preferably in aerodynamics, thermosciences, or combustion or a BS degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Thermal Sciences, or related field with a minimum of 9 years of experience in experimental research, preferably in aerodynamics, thermosciences, or combustion

• Proven track record of leading complex technical projects with cross-program impact — demonstrated ability to solve difficult, open-ended problems independently.

• Expertise in experimental fluid dynamics and thermal systems, including advanced instrumentation (e.g., high-speed DAQ, PIV, IR, pressure/temperature sensors) and data analysis.

• Strong systems thinking — ability to understand and optimize entire test systems, not just components.

• Experience leading teams or mentoring junior staff — demonstrated ability to coach others in technical decision-making and innovation.

• Proficiency in CAD (NX-UG, SolidWorks), LabVIEW/LabWindows, and 3D printing/additive manufacturing — with ability to innovate and integrate new technologies.

• Extensive experience with machine shop tools, rigging, and high-risk test env