Lead Manufacturing Engineer - Machine Tool Dynamics

Job Description Summary

Are you passionate about innovation? Are you excited at the opportunity to electrify and decarbonize the world?

We operate with a founder's mindset. We deliver innovation with passion, speed, and courage. We continuously challenge our thinking and are empowered to dream big and take smart risks.

What impact you'll make

As a member of the Process Development & Industrialization team, you will lead and support analysis and validation activities related to structural dynamics and machining process performance. This role combines Experimental Modal Analysis (EMA), Operational Modal Analysis (OMA), Finite Element Analysis (FEA), and correlation/validation of analytical and experimental results to diagnose and solve problems in machining processes. The ideal candidate will use both test-based and simulation-based methods to identify vibration, chatter, resonance, stiffness, and dynamic stability issues affecting manufacturing equipment, tooling, fixtures, and machined part quality.


Job Description


What you'll do

• Plan and execute Experimental Modal Analysis (EMA) testing on machine tools, fixtures, spindles, tooling, and related systems.
• Conduct Operational Modal Analysis (OMA) to characterize dynamic behavior under real operating conditions.
• Develop, run, and refine Finite Element Analysis (FEA) models for structural, dynamic, and vibration-related studies.
• Correlate FEA predictions with EMA/OMA test data and improve models based on test results.
• Validate machine/system performance and identify root causes of machining issues such as chatter, excessive vibration, poor surface finish, dimensional variation, tool wear, instability in machining processes.
• Analyze frequency response functions (FRFs), mode shapes, damping, natural frequencies, and stability behavior.
• Support troubleshooting and optimization of machining processes through data-driven recommendations.
• Work with manufacturing, tooling, design, and quality teams to implement corrective actions.
• Design test setups, instrumentation plans, and data acquisition methods for dynamic system evaluation.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings, conclusions, and recommendations to cross-functional stakeholders.
• Support continuous improvement of validation methods, simulation workflows, and test standards.
• Use continuous improvement methods, including kaizen activities, to support team initiatives.
• This role is based on site in Greenville, SC.

What you'll bring (Basic Qualifications)

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Structural Engineering, or related field.
• Experience in structural dynamics, vibration analysis, or machining process engineering.
• Hands-on experience with Experimental Modal Analysis, Operational Modal Analysis, Finite Element Analysis, Dynamic testing and model validation.
• Strong understanding of structural dynamics, vibrations and resonance, damping and stiffness behavior, machining process dynamics, chatter mechanisms and mitigation.
• Experience with instrumentation such as accelerometers, impact hammers, shakers, DAQ systems, and signal analyzers.
• Ability to interpret and correlate test and simulation results.
• Ability to work off-shift or flexible schedule at times as required by project timelines.

What will make you stand out

• Experience with machine tools, rotating equipment, spindles, tooling systems, or manufacturing equipment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; proven track record working in multi-group environments toward shared goals.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and technical communication skills
• Ability and desire to work on site in a manufacturing environment
• Familiarity with stability lobe analysis and machining dynamics.
• Experience with commercial FEA and test software.
• Knowledge of GD&T, manufacturing quality methods, and process capability analysis.
• Experience in root cause analysis for production or machining issues.
• Programming or scripting skills for data analysis and automation.
• Typical Tools / Software: FEA tools such as Simcenter, ANSYS, Abaqus, Nastran, or COMSOL, Modal test/analysis tools such as LMS/Siemens, Data analysis tools such as MATLAB, Python, or LabVIEW, NX CAD for geometry preparation and model review.
• Ability to effectively communicate with multiple levels of the organization, both verbally and through written communication.
• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently.
• Self-motivated, self-driven, and able to take ownership and make decisions.

GE Vernova offers a great work environment, professional development, challenging careers, and competitive compensation. 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.

GE Vernova will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States for this opening. Any offer of…