Aerodynamics

Lead Engineer – Aerodynamics

GE Vernova Advanced Research is looking for a Lead Engineer – Aerodynamics to help shape the next generation of industrial turbo machinery and energy systems. In this role, you'll drive breakthrough R&D from early concept development through advanced modeling and validation, with a focus on aerodynamic performance, operability, aeroacoustics, and flow path innovation.

In this role, you will:

• Lead innovation in aerodynamics and aeromechanics for advanced turbo machinery and energy systems.
• Develop and apply high-fidelity CFD and aeroacoustics simulations using both proprietary and commercial tools.
• Turn bold ideas into reality by evaluating and advancing novel component and system concepts.
• Guide multidisciplinary teams of researchers and external collaborators to mature breakthrough technologies.
• Coach and mentor engineers, helping grow technical talent and strengthen team capability.
• Shape technology strategy by contributing to roadmaps, identifying capability gaps, and building a strong R&D pipeline.
• Write and lead winning proposals for internal and external programs focused on improving component performance and system operability.
• Build partnerships across academia, government, and industry to expand collaboration and accelerate innovation.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline with 5+ years of professional R&D experience in industry, a postdoctoral role at a university, or a national lab.
• 3+ years of professional experience applying first-principles fluid mechanics, advanced aerodynamics, and turbo machinery flow physics to optimize high-performance energy systems.
• 3+ years of experience leveraging commercial and proprietary CFD toolsets, including proficiency in high-fidelity Large Eddy Simulation (LES) approaches and the development of advanced computational methods in high-performance computing (HPC) environments.
• 3+ years of experience investigating, modeling, and providing critical engineering insights into complex physical flow phenomena (such as secondary flows, transition, or turbulence) to influence design and hardware performance.
• 3+ years of demonstrated success in correlating computational simulation results with physical test data to validate design models and improve predictive accuracy for energy systems.

Eligibility Requirements

• Legal authorization to work in the U.S.
• Must be willing to work out of an office located in Niskayuna, NY.
• Due to the nature of the duties of this position, this role requires the individual to be a U.S. Person (i.e., a green card holder or U.S. citizen).
• Applicants must submit their applications for employment on the careers page at  to be considered.

Desired Characteristics

• Ability to develop and apply computational methods including RANS, URANS, and LES
• Experience (3+ years) in multi-stage compressor and/or turbine aerodynamic design and analysis
• Experience (3+ years) in flutter and forced response, coupled cavity acoustics and aero forcing function modeling
• Experience (3+ years) in multiphase flow analysis for steam, ammonia, or supercritical CO₂ systems
• Familiarity with phase-boundary behavior, real-fluid effects, and non-ideal fluid systems
• Demonstrated capabilities in integrating aerodynamic, mechanical, and/or rotor dynamic considerations in early-stage designs
• Ability to develop and apply steady and unsteady aerodynamic methods to evaluate performance and operability challenges in turbo machinery and other energy systems.
• Demonstrated capability in the use of AI and scientific machine learning to automate and accelerate design, computational methods, and workflows.
• Demonstrated research impact through publications, patents, and/or technical presentations.
• Ability to collaborate across research and engineering teams to mature technologies for practical applications.
• Experience developing technical ideas with external customers and a track record of converting ideas into high-impact programs that deliver value to customers.

GE Vernova offers a great work environment, professional development, challenging careers, and competitive compensation. GE Vernova is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment…