Lead Manufacturing Engineer – Machine Tool Dynamics

GE Vernova • Greenville, SC

1d • $81,700 - $136,700 • Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

• 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.

Nice To Haves

• 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.
• 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Benefits

• medical
• dental
• vision
• prescription drug coverage
• Health Coach from GE Vernova, a 24/7 nurse-based resource
• Employee Assistance Program, providing 24/7 confidential assessment, counseling and referral services
• GE Vernova Retirement Savings Plan, a tax-advantaged 401(k) savings opportunity with company matching contributions and company retirement contributions
• access to Fidelity resources and financial planning consultants
• tuition assistance
• adoption assistance
• paid parental leave
• disability benefits
• life insurance
• 12 paid holidays
• permissive time off
• Relocation Assistance Provided

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior