Lead Specialist - Aerodynamics & Thermosciences

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 environments - including overhead cranes, pressure systems, and high-noise environments.

Strong written and verbal communication skills - ability to articulate technical strategies to diverse audiences, including PhD researchers, vendors, and leadership.

Willingness to work flexible hours and shifts as needed to support critical experiments.

Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required; this role is not eligible for immigration or visa sponsorship. This position requires access to information and technology subject to U.S. export control laws. Consistent with U.S. export regulations, we can only consider applicants who are "U.S. persons" as defined by law.

Must be willing to work out of an office located in Niskayuna, NY.

Desired Characteristics

Recognized technical expert - sought out for complex problem-solving.

Experience leading innovation initiatives - e.g., developing new test methodologies.

Ability to build and leverage a broad technical network - internal and external - to solve complex challenges.

Adaptability and resilience - thrives in ambiguous, fast-changing environments with competing priorities.

Strategic mindset - able to align technical work with business goals and long-term capability roadmaps.

The base pay range for this position is $79,400-$119,000 . The specific pay offered may be influenced by a variety of factors, including the candidate's experience, education, and skill set. This position is also eligible for a performance bonus. This position will be posted until at least 11 / 7 / 2025.

Healthcare benefits include medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage; access to a Health Coach, a 24 / 7 nurse-based resource; and access to the Employee Assistance Program, providing 24 / 7 confidential assessment, counseling and referral services. Retirement benefits include the GE Retirement Savings Plan, a tax-advantaged 401(k) savings opportunity with company matching contributions and company retirement contributions, as well as access to Fidelity resources and planning consultants. Other benefits include tuition assistance, adoption assistance, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and paid time-off for vacation or illness.

General Electric Company, Ropcor, Inc., their successors, and in some cases their affiliates, each sponsor certain employee benefit plans or programs (i.e., is a "Sponsor"). Each Sponsor reserves the right to terminate, amend, suspend, replace, or modify its benefit plans and programs at any time and for any reason, in its sole discretion. No individual has a vested right to any benefit under a Sponsor's welfare benefit plan or program. This document does not create a contract of employment with any individual.

This role requires access to U.S. export-controlled information. If applicable, final offers will be contingent on ability to obtain authorization for access to U.S. export-controlled information from the U.S. Government. ?

Additional Information

GE Vernova offers a great work environment, professional development, challenging careers, and competitive compensation. GE Vernova is an Equal Opportunity Employer (https : / / www.eeoc.gov / sites / default / files / 2022-10 / 22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights_10_20.pdf) . Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

GE Vernova will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen (as applicable).

Relocation Assistance Provided : No

GE Vernova is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.