Roadrunner Venture Studios
Turbo Machinery Consultant – Steam & Geothermal Systems
Be an Early Applicant
The consultant will advise on turbine design and thermodynamic modeling, support design trade-offs, and provide technical input on geothermal systems.
About Us
We are an early-stage geothermal company developing next-generation systems for efficient heat extraction and power generation. Our work sits at the intersection of thermodynamics, mechanical systems, and renewable energy. We’re focused on advancing turbine and expander technologies that enable more efficient geothermal electricity generation.
Role Overview
We are seeking a Turbo Machinery Consultant with expertise in steam turbines, expanders, or other rotating equipment used in geothermal or thermal power applications. This flexible consulting role (~10 hours/month) is ideal for a senior engineer, researcher, or postdoctoral expert interested in applying advanced mechanical design and thermodynamic modeling to real-world geothermal systems.
The consultant will provide technical input on turbine design, performance modeling, and component integration for small-scale, high-efficiency power systems.
Key Responsibilities
- Advise on turbine and expander design suitable for geothermal or low-enthalpy steam cycles.
- Review and refine thermodynamic cycle models and mechanical system assumptions.
- Support design trade-offs related to flow efficiency, blade geometry, and materials.
- Evaluate candidate configurations for manufacturability, maintenance, and system integration.
- Provide concise deliverables and progress updates within ~10 hours/month of consulting time.
- Collaborate with the technical and founding teams to align modeling work with prototype development and testing plans.
Qualifications
- Advanced degree (PhD or MS) or equivalent industry experience in mechanical engineering, thermal sciences, or a related discipline.
- Proven expertise in turbo machinery—preferably with steam turbines, expanders, or ORC systems.
- Familiarity with geothermal, waste-heat recovery, or related renewable applications.
- Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and rotating equipment design.
- Ability to work independently, delivering high-impact analysis within limited consulting hours.
- Ability to engage without conflict to other obligations, employment, or contracts.
What We Offer
- Flexible commitment (~10 hours/month), compatible with research or other professional work.
- Opportunity to shape the design of next-generation geothermal turbo machinery.
- Exposure to startup-driven energy innovation and commercialization.
- A chance to apply technical depth to a transformative clean-energy mission.
Roadrunner Venture Studios is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer that proudly pursues and hires a diverse workforce. We do not make hiring or employment decisions on the basis of race, color, religion or religious belief, ethnic or national origin, nationality, sex, gender, gender-identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable local, state, or federal laws or prohibited by Company policy. We strive for a healthy and safe workplace and strictly prohibit harassment of any kind.
Top Skills
Expanders
Mechanical Design
Renewable Energy
Steam Turbines
Thermodynamic Modeling
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