Lead Designer, Structural

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Designer, Structural Company: Venture Global LNG Location: Houston, TX Job Type: Full-time Category: Engineering & Design Operations (Structural) Date Posted: 2025-07-25T17:25:59 Experience Level: 10+ Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in overseeing and executing structural design and modeling for large-scale Petrochemical or LNG onshore projects, requiring a deep understanding of industry standards and best practices.
• Responsibilities include guiding a team of 10-20 designers, both locally and overseas, ensuring high-quality deliverables and driving digital innovation in modeling and drawing automation for enhanced project efficiency.
• The position involves directing technical work from vendors and contractors, applying standard design details per ACI, AISC, PIP, OSHA, and client safety standards, alongside applicable codes and industry regulations.
• A key aspect of the role is assisting in or reviewing cost estimates and quantity take-offs for ongoing projects, proposals, forecasts, and change orders, contributing to financial project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Lead Designer, Structural," the description clearly indicates a leadership and management component, implying a Senior or Lead Engineer/Designer level within operations, focusing on team management, process improvement, and technical oversight in structural engineering design. The emphasis on digital innovation and automation suggests a forward-thinking operations approach.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage structural design and modeling efforts for large-scale Petrochemical or LNG onshore projects, ensuring adherence to project specifications and timelines.
• Guide and mentor a team of 10-20 structural designers, both onshore and potentially offshore/remote teams, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.
• Drive digital innovation by implementing and optimizing automated drawing generation with model-based QA/QC workflows, enhancing design accuracy and efficiency.
• Review and approve submittals from EPC contractors and internal engineering teams for piling, foundations, module fabrication, and stick-built steel structures, providing critical technical guidance and constructability review comments.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant standards, specifications, models, local codes, and regulations throughout the design lifecycle, conducting regular reviews of vendor documents to verify adherence to data sheet requirements.
• Develop and enforce robust modeling and drawing standards to ensure consistency, accuracy, and efficiency across all design deliverables.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including project management, procurement, and construction, to ensure seamless integration of structural designs and resolve any design-related issues.
• Assist in the preparation and review of cost estimates and quantity take-offs for projects, proposals, forecasts, and change orders, contributing to effective project financial management.
• Provide technical guidance to contractors and vendors, generating sketches and solutions as needed to overcome design challenges and optimize constructability.
• Continuously seek and implement ways to improve the design process and lower project costs through innovation, efficiency, and data analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design oversight, team leadership, process improvement, and financial input, characteristic of a senior operations role within an engineering and construction context. The focus on digital innovation and automation points towards a need for expertise in modern design technologies and workflows.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Associate or Bachelor's degree in Engineering (e.g., Civil, Structural) or a related technical field.
• Alternatively, a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in lieu of a formal degree, demonstrating a strong practical foundation.

Experience:

• 10-15 years of minimum relevant experience in the refining and petrochemical industry, with a strong preference for experience in LNG projects and EPC environments.
• 10-25 years of comprehensive experience spanning FEED (Front-End Engineering Design), detailed engineering, fabrication, and construction phases of complex industrial projects.
• Proven experience in leading and managing design teams, including local and overseas personnel, with a capacity to guide 10-20 designers.
• Demonstrated experience with automated drawing generation and model-based QA/QC workflows for design process optimization.
• Substantial experience in reviewing and approving submittals from EPC contractors and internal engineering teams for various structural components.
• Experience in cost estimation and quantity take-offs for projects, proposals, forecasts, and change orders.
• Ability to self-direct work with minimal supervision, demonstrating initiative and proactive problem-solving skills.
• Proven ability to provide guidance, leadership, and training to less experienced designers and engineers.

Required Skills:

• Structural Design & Analysis: Expertise in structural design principles, codes (ACI, AISC, PIP, OSHA), and standards for Petrochemical and LNG facilities.
• 3D Modeling Software: Proficiency in Tekla Structures, SmartPlant 3D (S3D), and Navisworks for complex structural modeling and clash detection.
• BIM & Digital Innovation: Experience with Building Information Modeling (BIM) and driving digital innovation in modeling and automated drawing generation processes.
• Team Leadership & Management: Proven ability to lead, mentor, and manage teams of designers, fostering collaboration and ensuring quality deliverables.
• Technical Review & Guidance: Capability to review EPC submittals, vendor documents, and provide constructive technical guidance and constructability comments.
• Cost Estimation & Quantity Take-offs: Experience in assisting with or reviewing cost estimates and quantity take-offs for project financial planning.
• Code & Standards Compliance: Deep understanding and application of relevant industry codes, client standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Project Lifecycle Experience: Comprehensive knowledge of FEED, detailed engineering, fabrication, and construction phases.

Preferred Skills:

• Petrochemical/LNG Project Experience: Direct experience with large-scale LNG export projects or similar complex industrial facilities.
• Cost Control & Financial Acumen: Understanding of project cost control principles and the ability to influence cost through design optimization.
• Process Improvement: Demonstrated ability to identify and implement improvements in design processes and workflows to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
• Data Analysis: Skill in analyzing data to make informed decisions and support design recommendations.
• Vendor Management: Experience in managing and coordinating with external vendors and contractors on technical aspects.
• Travel Flexibility: Willingness to travel up to 20% of the time for project-related activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize proficiency in specialized structural design software and BIM, coupled with leadership capabilities and a strong understanding of project lifecycle management in heavy industrial sectors. The combination of technical expertise and managerial responsibility suggests a role with significant impact on project execution and operational efficiency.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Structural Design Projects: Showcase a portfolio of completed structural design projects, preferably within the Petrochemical or LNG industry, highlighting complexity and scale.
• Modeling & Automation Examples: Include examples of 3D models created using Tekla Structures, S3D, or similar software, and demonstrate experience with automated drawing generation or model-based QA/QC workflows.
• Team Leadership & Collaboration: Evidence of team leadership, mentorship, or project management within design teams, illustrating collaboration and coordination efforts.
• Technical Review & Problem-Solving: Case studies demonstrating the ability to review technical submittals, provide constructive feedback, and solve complex design challenges.
• Process Improvement Initiatives: Examples of implemented process improvements or cost-saving measures within design workflows, showcasing an impact on efficiency or budget.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate experience in designing, documenting, and optimizing structural design workflows, from initial concept through to final deliverables.
• Implementation & Automation: Provide examples of how advanced modeling techniques or automation tools have been implemented to improve design accuracy, speed, or reduce manual effort.
• Performance Measurement & Analysis: Showcase how design processes are measured, analyzed, and benchmarked for continuous improvement, including the use of QA/QC metrics.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is crucial, especially demonstrating practical application of advanced modeling tools and automation in structural design. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their role in process optimization and team management, backed by concrete project examples.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry standards for a Lead Structural Designer with 10-25 years of experience in the Houston, TX area, the estimated salary range is $120,000 - $180,000 per year. This estimate accounts for the specialized nature of LNG projects, the leadership responsibilities, and the high cost of living in Houston.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage options.
• Retirement Savings Plan: 401(k) with potential company match, supporting long-term financial planning.
• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and holidays to promote work-life balance.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and conference attendance to enhance skills in structural engineering and design operations.
• Performance Bonuses: Potential for bonuses tied to individual and company performance, recognizing contributions to project success.
• Life and Disability Insurance: Protection for employees and their families.
• Relocation Assistance: May be available for candidates relocating to Houston.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time workweek, typically 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday.
• While the core hours are standard, occasional overtime may be required to meet project deadlines or address critical design issues, common in project-driven environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on market data for similar roles in Houston, considering the extensive experience and leadership duties. Benefits are typical for a company of this size and industry, focusing on employee well-being and professional growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) - Venture Global LNG is a key player in the American LNG export market, focusing on long-term, low-cost supply to meet global energy demands. This industry is characterized by large-scale, capital-intensive projects with stringent safety and environmental standards. Company Size: Venture Global LNG is a growing company, likely falling into the medium to large enterprise category in terms of its operational footprint and project scope, with a significant number of employees involved in engineering, project management, and operations. Founded: Venture Global LNG was founded with a vision to provide clean, reliable, and affordable North American energy to the world. Its establishment dates are relatively recent, positioning it as an innovative and agile player in the energy sector.

Team Structure:

• The role reports to the Manager of Structural Modeling, Design and Draft, indicating a specialized department focused on the technical aspects of structural engineering deliverables.
• The team consists of 10-20 designers, implying a significant workload and a need for strong leadership and coordination.
• Collaboration is expected with other engineering disciplines, project management, procurement, and construction teams, forming a matrixed project environment.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using data analysis to inform design decisions and optimize solutions, aligning with modern engineering practices.
• Workflow Optimization: A focus on improving design processes through digital innovation, automation, and the implementation of best practices in modeling and drawing generation.
• Automation & Efficiency: Actively seeking and implementing automation in design and QA/QC workflows to enhance productivity, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness.

Company Website: https://venturegloballng.com/careers/

📝 Enhancement Note: Venture Global LNG operates in a dynamic and technically demanding sector. The company culture likely values innovation, efficiency, and a commitment to safety and quality, essential for large-scale energy infrastructure projects. The emphasis on digital tools and process optimization suggests a forward-thinking approach to engineering design.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is a senior-level role within the structural engineering design operations. It requires significant technical expertise, proven leadership capabilities, and a strategic approach to managing design processes and teams. It sits above individual contributor designers and potentially below a Chief Structural Engineer or Engineering Director. Reporting Structure: The Lead Designer will report directly to the Manager of Structural Modeling, Design and Draft. This implies a clear line of management and oversight within the structural design department. Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on project execution by ensuring the quality, accuracy, and constructability of structural designs. Efficient and effective structural design is critical for project cost, schedule, and overall safety, significantly influencing the successful delivery of LNG facilities.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specialized areas of structural engineering for LNG facilities, such as modular design, complex foundation systems, or seismic considerations.
• Leadership Development: Progression into management roles, such as Manager of Structural Design, Chief Designer, or lead roles on larger, more complex international projects.
• Digital Transformation Leadership: Opportunity to lead initiatives in adopting and implementing new design technologies, automation tools, and BIM strategies within the organization.
• Cross-Functional Exposure: Potential to move into broader project engineering management roles or roles within construction management, leveraging a strong foundation in design operations.
• Industry Recognition: Contributing to high-profile projects that can enhance professional reputation and career prospects within the global energy sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant potential for career advancement, particularly for individuals who excel in leadership, process improvement, and the adoption of digital technologies within the structural engineering domain. The company's focus on large-scale projects provides a strong platform for growth and impact.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The position is based in a professional office environment located in Downtown Houston. This suggests a modern corporate setting with standard office amenities designed for collaborative work and focused technical tasks. Office Location(s): The primary office is in Downtown Houston, Texas. This location is a major hub for the energy industry, offering excellent accessibility and proximity to other industry players and resources.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Design Hub: The workspace is designed to facilitate collaboration among design teams, engineers, and project stakeholders, likely featuring open-plan areas, meeting rooms, and dedicated workstations.
• Technology-Enabled: Access to state-of-the-art design software (Tekla Structures, S3D, Navisworks), high-performance computing resources, and BIM platforms is expected, supporting complex modeling and analysis tasks.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with the immediate structural design team, as well as cross-functional collaboration with other engineering disciplines and project management personnel.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is Monday to Friday, aligning with typical business hours.
• Employees are expected to be in the office 5 days a week, emphasizing an on-site, collaborative work model.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in a professional downtown Houston office environment indicates a structured and collaborative work setting, typical for major engineering projects in the energy sector. This setup is designed to maximize team synergy and facilitate efficient project execution.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will review applications and conduct an initial screening to assess basic qualifications and fit.
• Technical Interview: Candidates will likely undergo one or more technical interviews with the hiring manager (Manager of Structural Modeling, Design and Draft) and potentially senior members of the structural design team. This will focus on technical skills, experience with specific software, and understanding of industry codes.
• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to review the candidate's portfolio will be a critical part of the interview process. Expect to walk through selected projects, discussing your role, design decisions, challenges, and outcomes.
• Leadership & Team Management Assessment: Interviews will assess leadership capabilities, experience managing teams, and ability to provide guidance and mentorship.
• Behavioral and Situational Questions: Questions designed to gauge problem-solving skills, decision-making processes, communication style, and how candidates handle specific work scenarios.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a higher-level manager or department head to confirm fit and discuss overall career trajectory.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your most relevant and impactful projects that showcase your skills in structural design, modeling, team leadership, and process innovation for LNG or petrochemical projects.
• Highlight Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions and responsibilities within each project, especially in leading teams or driving process improvements.
• Showcase Technical Proficiency: Include examples of complex 3D models, innovative design solutions, and how you utilized software like Tekla Structures, S3D, and Navisworks.
• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work, such as cost savings, schedule improvements, or efficiency gains from process automation.
• Prepare for Discussion: Be ready to discuss your design rationale, the challenges you faced, how you overcame them, and the lessons learned. Be prepared to explain your approach to team management and mentorship.
• Focus on Process: Highlight any instances where you developed or improved design workflows, implemented automation, or contributed to QA/QC processes.

Challenge Preparation:

• Process Optimization Scenario: You may be presented with a hypothetical design scenario and asked to outline your approach to managing the structural design process, including team allocation, software utilization, and quality control.
• Technical Problem-Solving: Be prepared for questions that test your knowledge of structural codes, materials, and design principles relevant to LNG facilities.
• Team Leadership Scenarios: Expect questions about how you would manage a team, resolve conflicts, provide feedback, or motivate designers.
• Digital Implementation: Consider how you would approach implementing new design technologies or automation tools within a team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely rigorous, with a strong emphasis on practical experience, technical depth, and leadership potential. A well-prepared and targeted portfolio is essential for demonstrating capabilities effectively.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Tekla Structures: Essential for advanced 3D modeling, detailing, and fabrication drawings of steel and concrete structures. Proficiency in creating complex models and generating fabrication-ready outputs is expected.
• SmartPlant 3D (S3D): A comprehensive 3D design and modeling software used for plant design across various disciplines, including structural. Experience with its structural modules and integration capabilities is valuable.
• Navisworks: Crucial for model aggregation, clash detection, 4D scheduling, and visualization. The ability to coordinate structural models with other disciplines (piping, mechanical, electrical) is key.
• AutoCAD: Standard CAD software for 2D drafting and design, often used for preliminary sketches, layout drawings, and specific detailing.
• Microsoft Office Suite: Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook for documentation, data analysis, reporting, and communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Excel: Advanced functions for data analysis, quantity take-offs, and basic reporting.
• BIM Data Extraction Tools: Tools that can extract data from BIM models for quantity take-offs, cost estimation, and progress tracking.
• Reporting Dashboards: Familiarity with creating or interpreting reports and dashboards that visualize project progress, identify design issues, or track compliance.

CRM & Automation:

• Project Management Software: Experience with project management tools for tracking tasks, schedules, and resources (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project) may be beneficial for understanding project timelines.
• Document Management Systems (DMS): Familiarity with systems for managing and controlling project documentation, drawings, and revisions.
• Potential for Workflow Automation Tools: Exposure to scripting or automation within modeling software (e.g., Python for Tekla) or general automation concepts for drawing generation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Expertise in industry-standard 3D modeling and project coordination software is a non-negotiable requirement. The role also benefits from proficiency in data analysis and reporting tools that support efficient project management and decision-making.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Design: A commitment to producing high-quality, accurate, and constructible structural designs that meet or exceed project requirements and industry standards.
• Innovation & Efficiency: A proactive approach to seeking and implementing new technologies, processes, and automation techniques to improve design efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance project outcomes.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment where designers, engineers, and other project stakeholders work together seamlessly, sharing knowledge and supporting each other to achieve common goals.
• Accountability & Ownership: Taking responsibility for assigned tasks and projects, demonstrating ownership from conception through to completion, and driving results.
• Continuous Improvement: A mindset focused on learning, adapting, and consistently seeking ways to refine processes, enhance skills, and elevate performance within the design operations.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Working closely with multidiscipline engineering teams (process, mechanical, electrical, civil), project management, procurement, and construction to ensure cohesive project execution.
• Open Communication: Maintaining transparent and effective communication channels with team members, stakeholders, and management to share information, provide updates, and address issues promptly.
• Constructive Feedback Culture: Engaging in a culture of constructive feedback, both giving and receiving, to drive continuous improvement in design quality and process effectiveness.
• Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing: Actively participating in mentoring junior designers and sharing expertise to build team capability and foster a learning organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's culture likely emphasizes a strong work ethic, technical proficiency, and a collaborative spirit, essential for managing complex, large-scale engineering projects. Values are geared towards delivering high-quality results efficiently and safely.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Large Teams: Effectively leading and coordinating a team of 10-20 designers across potentially different locations and time zones requires strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Driving Digital Adoption: Implementing and ensuring the consistent use of new modeling software, automation tools, and digital workflows across the design team can present adoption challenges.
• Balancing Project Demands: Juggling multiple projects simultaneously, each with its own deadlines, technical requirements, and stakeholder needs, requires excellent prioritization and time management.
• Ensuring Constructability: Translating complex designs into practical, buildable structures requires constant attention to detail and close collaboration with construction and fabrication teams.
• Staying Ahead of Technology: Continuously updating skills and knowledge to keep pace with advancements in design software, modeling techniques, and digital construction technologies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Opportunities to gain advanced certifications or specialized training in Tekla Structures, S3D, Navisworks, and emerging BIM technologies.
• Leadership and Management Skills: Development programs focused on team leadership, project management, conflict resolution, and strategic planning.
• Industry-Specific Knowledge: Deepening expertise in LNG facility design, construction methods, and relevant industry regulations through project involvement and potential professional development courses.
• Exposure to Major Projects: Gaining hands-on experience on significant, high-profile LNG export projects that provide unparalleled learning opportunities and career advancement potential.
• Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to be mentored by senior leaders or to mentor junior team members, fostering knowledge transfer and leadership growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex challenges in a leading-edge industry. Success will depend on strong technical acumen, effective leadership, and a commitment to continuous learning and adaptation.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to leading a team of 15 structural designers on a complex LNG project. How would you ensure quality deliverables and foster collaboration?"
  • Preparation: Focus on your team management philosophy, communication strategies, performance monitoring, and how you delegate tasks effectively. Mention your experience with remote or diverse teams.
• "Walk me through a project where you implemented automated drawing generation or model-based QA/QC workflows. What were the challenges, and what was the impact on efficiency and quality?"
  • Preparation: Select a strong example from your portfolio. Clearly outline the problem, the solution you implemented (specific tools/methods), your role, and quantifiable results (e.g., reduced rework, faster drawing production).
• "How do you ensure structural designs comply with all relevant codes (ACI, AISC, PIP, OSHA) and client specifications, especially in a fast-paced project environment?"
  • Preparation: Discuss your process for code review, incorporating standards into design templates, using checklists, and your experience with technical reviews of submittals.
• "How do you balance the need for innovative design solutions with cost and schedule constraints in large-scale industrial projects?"
  • Preparation: Emphasize your ability to analyze multiple solutions, make data-driven decisions, and collaborate with cost estimators and project managers to achieve optimal project outcomes.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Venture Global LNG and the LNG export industry?"
  • Preparation: Research the company's projects, mission, and recent news. Understand the basics of LNG export and its importance in the global energy market.
• "How do you handle disagreements or conflicts within a design team or with other disciplines?"
  • Preparation: Prepare examples of how you've resolved conflicts constructively, focusing on communication, understanding perspectives, and finding collaborative solutions.
• "Describe a time you had to adapt your design process or a technical approach due to unforeseen project changes or new requirements."
  • Preparation: Showcase your flexibility, problem-solving skills, and ability to manage change effectively while maintaining design integrity.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, follow a clear structure: Project overview (type, scale, location), your role and responsibilities, key design challenges, solutions implemented (technical and process), team leadership aspects, final outcomes/impact, and lessons learned.
• Visual Aids: Use high-quality screenshots of 3D models, drawings, and any relevant diagrams. If possible, have a live demo or interactive model ready.
• Focus on Leadership and Process: Beyond technical design, emphasize your leadership in managing the team and any process improvements or automation you introduced.
• Quantify Impact: Use numbers and data wherever possible to demonstrate the value you brought to projects (e.g., "reduced detailing time by 15%," "identified clashes that saved X amount in rework").
• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your key projects within a designated timeframe (e.g., 10-15 minutes per project) and answer follow-up questions thoroughly.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just technical expertise but also strong leadership, process improvement capabilities, and a strategic understanding of project execution within the energy sector. A well-rehearsed portfolio presentation is critical.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Venture Global LNG careers link.
• Tailor your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight keywords from the job description, such as "Structural Design," "Petrochemical," "LNG," "Tekla Structures," "S3D," "Navisworks," "BIM," "team leadership," "cost estimation," and "process automation." Quantify your achievements where possible.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Assemble a compelling portfolio showcasing your most relevant structural design projects. Ensure it includes examples of your leadership, technical proficiency with key software, and any process improvements or automation you've implemented. Be ready to present this clearly and concisely.
• Research Venture Global LNG: Gain a thorough understanding of the company's mission, projects, and values. This will help you articulate your alignment during interviews and demonstrate genuine interest.
• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common and scenario-based interview questions, focusing on your experience in structural design, team management, and process optimization, as outlined in the "Interview Preparation" section. Practice presenting your portfolio.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.