Lead Designer - Structural/Civil offshore

Kent
Full-timeMumbai, India

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Designer - Structural/Civil Offshore

Company: Kent

Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Job Type: Full-time / Contract

Category: Engineering / Design Operations

Date Posted: March 26, 2026

Experience Level: 20+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

  • Lead and mentor a team of structural and civil designers, ensuring high-quality deliverables and adherence to project schedules in the offshore energy sector.

  • Drive the creation and management of 3D models and 2D drawings, with a strong emphasis on clash-free model development and issue resolution.

  • Oversee and implement stringent quality processes for design checks, comment incorporation, and participation in critical 3D model reviews.

  • Foster collaboration across engineering disciplines and effectively manage interface points within complex offshore projects.

  • Contribute to the strategic planning of team training and assist in maintaining team productivity and schedule performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned at a senior level, requiring extensive experience (20+ years) and leadership capabilities. The focus on offshore structures (Oil & Gas/Wind Farms) and specific software proficiency (Inventor, AutoCAD, MicroStation) indicates a specialized design operations function within the energy sector. The dual "Permanent / Contract" employment type suggests flexibility for candidates.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

  • Lead, guide, and mentor a team of structural/civil designers, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.

  • Ensure the timely and quality delivery of all design deliverables, including 3D models and 2D drawings, for offshore projects.

  • Conduct thorough 3D clash checks, identify conflicts, and develop practical solutions for complex modeling and drafting challenges.

  • Implement and enforce rigorous quality assurance processes for design reviews, comment incorporation, and documentation.

  • Actively participate in and lead 3D model review sessions, ensuring stakeholder alignment and design integrity.

  • Understand and integrate design considerations from other engineering disciplines (e.g., mechanical, electrical) to ensure holistic project design.

  • Manage and adhere to interface management protocols, ensuring seamless integration of structural designs with other project components.

  • Work autonomously with minimal supervision, demonstrating initiative and effective communication with team members and stakeholders.

  • Develop and execute training plans for subordinate designers to enhance their skills and ensure continuous professional development.

  • Collaborate with the Lead Engineer to monitor and maintain team productivity and project schedule performance.

  • Assist in the planning and execution of ad-hoc tasks as directed by management, ensuring flexibility and adaptability in meeting organizational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize leadership, technical proficiency in design software, quality control, and cross-functional collaboration, all critical aspects of a Senior Design Operations role in a complex engineering environment. The inclusion of "ad-hoc tasks" highlights the need for adaptability within the role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

  • Minimum of 20 years of progressive experience in structural/civil design, with a significant portion dedicated to offshore projects.

  • Proven track record of executing medium to large-scale offshore projects (Oil and Gas / Wind Farms).

Required Skills:

  • Expertise in 3D modeling and extraction of 2D drawings.

  • Proficient in clash detection and resolution for complex models.

  • Deep understanding of detailing requirements for various offshore structures.

  • Mastery of drafting software: Expertise in Inventor, and minimum proficiency in 2D tools such as AutoCAD and MicroStation.

  • Strong knowledge of quality assurance processes in design and engineering.

  • Excellent interpersonal and presentation skills.

  • Proven ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

  • Effective communication and liaison skills with team members and other departments.

  • Experience in planning training for team members.

  • Ability to assist in maintaining team productivity and meeting project schedules.

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience with other offshore structure types or related engineering disciplines.

  • Familiarity with interface management processes within large projects.

  • Understanding of HSSEQ (Health, Safety, Sustainability, Environment, and Quality) protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific software (Inventor, AutoCAD, MicroStation) and the detailed experience requirements for offshore structures are key differentiators for this role. The 20+ years of experience requirement positions this as a senior leadership role within the design operations function.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • Showcase a minimum of 2-3 significant offshore projects (Oil & Gas or Wind Farms) where you held a leadership or senior design role.

  • Highlight your contributions to the development of 3D models and the extraction of 2D drawings, demonstrating proficiency in Inventor and AutoCAD/MicroStation.

  • Include examples of clash detection reports and how you resolved complex modeling/drafting issues, demonstrating problem-solving capabilities.

  • Present evidence of your leadership in implementing and following quality assurance processes for design checks and comment incorporation.

Process Documentation:

  • Provide examples of how you have documented design workflows and quality control procedures for a design team.

  • Illustrate your approach to managing design interfaces and ensuring seamless integration within a larger project framework.

  • Showcase how you have contributed to maintaining team productivity and meeting project schedule performance through process optimization.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating leadership, technical execution, and process adherence in offshore structural design is critical. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their role in delivering quality, clash-free models and managing team performance.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

  • Comprehensive health insurance coverage for employee and dependents.

  • Provident Fund (PF) and Gratuity as per Indian labor laws.

  • Paid Time Off (PTO) including annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays.

  • Opportunities for professional development, training, and certifications.

  • Potential for performance-based bonuses or contract completion bonuses.

  • Travel allowances and accommodation support for required travel.

Working Hours:

  • Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

  • Flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines and critical review schedules, potentially involving overtime or work outside standard hours.

  • The role is on-site, requiring full-time presence at the Mumbai or Vadodara office.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on current market data for senior engineering design roles in Mumbai, India. Benefits are typical for full-time positions in the region, with additional considerations for contract roles that may involve travel.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Energy Sector (Oil & Gas, Wind Farms, and broader energy solutions).

Company Size: Kent is a significant player in the global energy sector, operating across multiple continents. While the exact employee count for the Indian operations isn't specified, the company's global reach suggests a substantial workforce.

Founded: Kent has a long-standing history in engineering and project delivery, with a focus on innovation and tackling complex energy challenges.

Team Structure:

  • The design team is likely structured with a Lead Designer overseeing a group of specialized Structural and Civil Designers.

  • This team will report to a Lead Engineer or Engineering Manager.

Methodology:

  • Data-driven decision-making and a strong emphasis on performance metrics are core to Kent's operations.

  • Workflow optimization and the application of advanced design technologies (like Inventor) are integral to their project execution.

  • A focus on quality, safety (HSSEQ), and client satisfaction underpins all operational processes.

Company Website: https://kentplc.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Kent positions itself as an innovative and ambitious company tackling significant energy challenges. The culture emphasizes high performance, emotional agility, and infinite thinking, suggesting a dynamic and results-oriented work environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a senior leadership level within the Design Operations function. It involves direct team management, technical oversight, and significant contribution to project execution strategy. The scope extends beyond individual contribution to team performance and quality assurance.

Reporting Structure: The Lead Designer will report to a Lead Engineer or Engineering Manager, overseeing a team of Structural/Civil Designers. They will act as a key interface between the design team and higher management, as well as other engineering disciplines.

Operations Impact: The Lead Designer's impact is critical to project success by ensuring the timely delivery of accurate, high-quality, clash-free structural designs. This directly influences project costs, schedules, safety, and overall client satisfaction in the complex offshore energy sector. Effective team leadership and process adherence mitigate risks and optimize resource utilization.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Advancement to Lead Engineer or Engineering Manager roles within Kent's project delivery teams.

  • Specialization in specific offshore technologies (e.g., advanced offshore wind structures, complex oil and gas platforms).

  • Opportunity to lead larger, more complex multi-disciplinary design projects.

  • Potential for involvement in strategic process improvement initiatives across the engineering department.

  • Mentorship roles for junior designers and engineers.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within a major energy sector player. The emphasis on leadership, technical depth, and project impact provides significant opportunities for professional growth and development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in a professional office environment, likely a modern facility designed for engineering and project management teams. The Mumbai and Vadodara offices are strategically located to support offshore projects.

Office Location(s):

  • Mumbai: Embassy 247, Tower C, 10th Floor, Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg, Vikhroli (West), Mumbai, 400083, India.

Workspace Context:

  • The workspace will be collaborative, encouraging interaction among design teams and with other engineering disciplines.

  • Access to state-of-the-art design software (Inventor, AutoCAD, MicroStation) and hardware will be provided.

  • The environment is expected to be dynamic and fast-paced, reflecting the demands of the offshore energy sector.

Work Schedule:

  • Primarily on-site, with a standard 40-hour work week.

  • Flexibility and willingness to work extended hours or weekends may be required during critical project phases or to meet urgent deadlines.

  • Travel may be required to other company offices, client sites, or project locations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role emphasizes the importance of in-person collaboration and team integration. The office locations in Mumbai and Vadodara are key hubs for the company's operations in India.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: Review of resume and application, focusing on 20+ years of experience, leadership, offshore project history, and specific software proficiency.

  • Technical Assessment: May involve a technical test or a detailed discussion on your experience with Inventor, AutoCAD, MicroStation, clash detection, and offshore structure detailing.

  • Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to present and discuss your project portfolio, highlighting leadership, problem-solving, and quality assurance contributions. Be prepared to walk through case studies of complex projects.

  • Leadership & Behavioral Interview: Discussion on team leadership, conflict resolution, stakeholder management, and how you embody Kent's core values (Play Big, Emotional Agility, Fanatical About Performance, Infinite Thinking).

  • Final Interview: With senior management (e.g., Lead Engineer, Engineering Manager) to assess overall fit and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type (e.g., Oil & Gas, Wind Farms). For each project, clearly define your role, team size, key responsibilities, challenges faced, and solutions implemented.

  • Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate impact (e.g., "Reduced clashes by X%", "Delivered project Y days ahead of schedule," "Improved design accuracy by Z%").

  • Showcase Leadership: Highlight instances where you led teams, mentored junior designers, and drove process improvements.

  • Technical Depth: Be ready to discuss specific technical challenges encountered in offshore design and how you used Inventor, AutoCAD, or MicroStation to overcome them.

  • Quality Focus: Detail your experience with quality assurance processes, model reviews, and ensuring design integrity.

  • Storytelling: Frame your experiences as compelling narratives that showcase your problem-solving skills, adaptability, and leadership potential.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Be prepared to discuss hypothetical scenarios related to managing a design team under pressure, resolving inter-departmental conflicts, or addressing a major design flaw discovered late in the project lifecycle.

  • Practice articulating your design philosophy and approach to ensuring quality and efficiency in offshore projects.

  • Brush up on current trends and challenges in offshore structural design and relevant software capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily scrutinize leadership experience, technical expertise in specialized software and offshore design, and alignment with Kent's core values. A well-prepared portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical experience and impact.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • 3D Modeling Software: Expertise in Inventor is a mandatory requirement.

  • 2D Drafting Software: Minimum proficiency in AutoCAD and MicroStation.

  • Clash Detection Software: Experience with tools for performing and resolving clashes (e.g., Navisworks, although not explicitly mentioned, it's common in this space).

  • Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools used for task management, scheduling, and progress tracking (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6 – assumed based on industry).

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

  • While not directly a CRM role, familiarity with project collaboration platforms and systems that facilitate workflow automation and data sharing within engineering projects is beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Inventor is a non-negotiable requirement. Candidates should be ready to demonstrate hands-on experience with these tools in the context of complex offshore structural design projects.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Play Big: Embracing large-scale challenges and aiming for significant impact in offshore energy projects.

  • Emotional Agility: Adapting to changing project demands and team dynamics with resilience and a positive mindset.

  • Fanatical About Performance: A commitment to delivering high-quality, efficient, and technically sound design solutions consistently.

  • Infinite Thinking: Approaching design problems with creativity, innovation, and a forward-looking perspective to find optimal solutions.

  • HSSEQ (Health, Safety, Sustainability, Environment, Quality): A paramount focus on maintaining the highest standards in all aspects of work, ensuring safe and responsible project execution.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with other engineering disciplines, project management, and stakeholders to ensure cohesive project delivery.

  • Team-Oriented: Fostering a supportive environment where team members are encouraged to collaborate, share knowledge, and collectively solve problems.

  • Proactive Communication: Maintaining open and clear communication channels to address issues promptly, manage expectations, and drive progress.

  • Feedback Culture: Encouraging constructive feedback for continuous improvement of designs, processes, and team performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: Alignment with Kent's core values is crucial for success. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they embody these principles in their leadership and daily work, particularly concerning performance and safety.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Managing Diverse Project Demands: Balancing multiple offshore projects with varying timelines, technical complexities, and client requirements.

  • Resolving Complex Technical Issues: Addressing intricate modeling, drafting, and clash detection problems in demanding offshore environments.

  • Leading and Motivating a Design Team: Ensuring high productivity, skill development, and morale within the design team.

  • Keeping Pace with Technology: Continuously updating skills with evolving design software and offshore engineering technologies.

  • Adhering to Stringent HSSEQ Standards: Ensuring all designs meet the highest safety, environmental, and quality regulations in a high-risk industry.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Advanced Software Training: Deepening expertise in Inventor and exploring new features or modules relevant to offshore design.

  • Industry Certifications: Pursuing certifications related to offshore engineering, project management, or specific design software.

  • Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to be mentored by senior engineers or to mentor junior team members, enhancing leadership skills.

  • Exposure to New Projects: Working on diverse and challenging offshore projects that expand technical knowledge and project management experience.

  • Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Gaining insights into other engineering disciplines to foster a more holistic project understanding.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges but also offers substantial growth prospects within a leading energy company. Candidates should be ready to articulate how they handle pressure and drive continuous improvement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "Describe a time you led a design team through a critical project phase with tight deadlines. What steps did you take to ensure quality and timely delivery?" (Focus on leadership, process, and performance)

  • "Walk us through a complex structural design challenge you encountered on an offshore project. How did you use Inventor/AutoCAD/MicroStation to identify and resolve it?" (Focus on technical skills, problem-solving, and software proficiency)

  • "How do you ensure adherence to HSSEQ standards within your design team, especially when facing schedule pressures?" (Focus on safety, quality, and ethical considerations)

Company & Culture Questions:

  • "How do you see yourself embodying Kent's values of 'Play Big' and 'Fanatical About Performance' in this role?" (Focus on cultural fit and alignment)

  • "Describe your approach to mentoring and developing junior designers." (Focus on leadership and team development)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Highlight Leadership: Clearly articulate your role in leading teams, managing workflows, and driving project success.

  • Showcase Technical Prowess: Be ready to discuss specific design solutions, software applications, and problem-solving techniques.

  • Quantify Impact: Use metrics to demonstrate the value you brought to projects (e.g., efficiency gains, risk reduction, quality improvements).

  • Address Challenges: Be transparent about challenges faced and how you overcame them, demonstrating resilience and adaptability.

  • Tailor to Kent: Connect your experience and achievements to the specific requirements of the Lead Designer role and Kent's operations in the offshore energy sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare specific examples that directly address the responsibilities and required skills. Demonstrating an understanding of offshore project complexities and alignment with Kent's values will be key to a successful interview.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

  • Submit your application through the provided Oracle Cloud portal link.

  • Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to prominently feature 2-3 complex offshore projects (Oil & Gas/Wind Farms). Ensure it clearly demonstrates your leadership in 3D modeling (Inventor), 2D drawing extraction (AutoCAD/MicroStation), clash detection, and quality process implementation.

  • Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight the 20+ years of experience, leadership responsibilities, proficiency in required software, and specific offshore project execution. Use keywords such as "Structural Design," "Civil Engineering," "Offshore Structures," "3D Modelling," "Clash Detection," "Team Leadership," and "Inventor."

  • Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your project experiences, focusing on challenges, solutions, and outcomes. Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you embody Kent's core values. Rehearse your portfolio presentation.

  • Company Research: Thoroughly review Kent's website, particularly the "Purpose, Beliefs and Guiding Principles" and "Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging" sections, to understand their culture and values. Prepare questions that demonstrate your engagement and interest.

⚠️ 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.

Application Requirements

Candidates must possess an ITI in Civil/Mechanical Draftsmanship or a Diploma in Civil Engineering, coupled with thorough knowledge of detailing various offshore structures (Oil and Gas/Wind Farms). Essential technical skills include expertise in Inventor software and 2D tools like AutoCAD/MicroStation, along with experience executing medium to large-sized projects.