Principal Designer C/S

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Principal Designer C/S
Company: Zachry Group
Location: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States
Job Type: Full time
Category: Engineering / Design Operations
Date Posted: 2025-10-31T17:31:34
Experience Level: 5-10 Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This Principal Designer role focuses on applying advanced design practices for steel and concrete structures, emphasizing efficient workflow and accurate model creation using CADD technologies.
• The position requires leadership in guiding design teams, ensuring successful project completion, and effective technical delegation within the discipline.
• This role involves critical field support responsibilities, including site verifications for retrofit applications, meticulous as-built documentation, and oversight of installation processes.
• The core function is to translate engineering concepts into tangible design deliverables, driving project execution and ensuring adherence to design standards and client requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the "Principal" title and responsibilities involving leadership and field support for complex structural projects, this role is categorized under Engineering/Design Operations, aligning with the broader GTM (Go-To-Market) operational support functions that ensure product or service delivery. The emphasis on CADD, structural design, and leading others points to a highly specialized operational role within the engineering and construction sector.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Apply general design practices and advanced techniques for steel and concrete structures, ensuring compliance with industry codes and standards.
• Utilize CADD software to create, manage, and optimize 3D models and detailed design drawings for structural components.
• Lead and mentor junior designers and drafters within the structural discipline, overseeing their project assignments and ensuring quality and timely delivery of design deliverables.
• Provide comprehensive field support, including conducting site verifications for existing structures, assessing retrofit feasibility, and identifying design adjustments needed for field conditions.
• Develop and maintain accurate as-built documentation by incorporating field changes and ensuring design drawings reflect the final constructed state.
• Supervise and guide installation processes on-site, collaborating with construction teams to resolve technical issues and ensure proper implementation of the design.
• Review and approve design calculations, drawings, and specifications prepared by the design team.
• Coordinate with other disciplines (e.g., civil, mechanical, electrical) to ensure seamless integration of structural designs into the overall project plan.
• Participate in project meetings, client reviews, and interdisciplinary coordination sessions.
• Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of design standards, procedures, and best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of technical design execution, project leadership, and hands-on field engagement. This is typical for a senior operational role in engineering where the individual is expected to not only produce high-quality technical output but also manage a portion of the team's work and ensure successful on-site implementation.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or a related field is preferred.
• Technical certifications in CADD software or structural design are highly regarded.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in structural design, with a strong focus on steel and concrete structures.
• Proven track record of successfully completing complex design projects from concept through to construction support.
• Experience in leading design teams and mentoring junior personnel within an engineering or construction environment.

Required Skills:

• Structural Design Expertise: Proficient in designing steel and concrete structures according to relevant building codes (e.g., AISC, ACI).
• CADD Proficiency: Advanced skills in CADD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, MicroStation) for 3D modeling and 2D drawing production.
• Field Support & Verification: Demonstrated ability to conduct site verifications, assess existing conditions, and provide technical solutions for field challenges.
• As-Built Documentation: Strong understanding of the process for creating and managing accurate as-built drawings and documentation.
• Team Leadership: Proven ability to lead, guide, and mentor a team of designers and drafters, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.
• Project Assignment Management: Experience in managing and delegating project tasks effectively to ensure timely and quality deliverables.
• Problem-Solving: Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to address complex structural engineering challenges.
• Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills for clear stakeholder interaction and technical reporting.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with structural analysis software (e.g., STAAD.Pro, SAP2000).
• Knowledge of retrofit applications and structural rehabilitation techniques.
• Familiarity with project management principles and software.
• Experience in construction supervision or installation oversight.
• Understanding of BIM (Building Information Modeling) workflows and standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience level and leadership responsibilities suggest a role that requires significant practical application and the ability to guide others. The emphasis on both CADD and field support indicates a need for a well-rounded individual who can translate design into reality and troubleshoot on-site issues.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Structural Design Case Studies: Showcase a minimum of 2-3 detailed case studies of steel and concrete structures designed, highlighting complexity, innovative solutions, and adherence to codes.
• CADD Model Examples: Include samples of complex 3D CADD models and detailed construction drawings, demonstrating proficiency in software like Revit or AutoCAD, with annotations explaining key design elements.
• Field Support & Problem-Solving Examples: Present documentation of instances where field verifications led to design adjustments or where on-site issues were successfully resolved, illustrating practical problem-solving capabilities.
• As-Built Documentation Samples: Provide examples of completed as-built drawings or documentation packages, showing the process of incorporating field changes and updating original designs.
• Leadership & Mentorship Examples: Briefly describe instances where you led design teams, delegated tasks, or mentored junior designers, focusing on outcomes and team development.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design and Optimization: Demonstrate understanding of standard structural design workflows, from conceptualization to final documentation, and present examples of how you have optimized these processes for efficiency and accuracy.
• System Implementation Standards: Show familiarity with implementing and adhering to CADD standards, BIM protocols, and project-specific documentation requirements.
• Measurement and Performance Analysis: Explain how design quality and project timelines were tracked and managed in previous roles, including how performance was reported or improved.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Principal Designer role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not only showcase technical skills but also leadership, problem-solving in real-world scenarios, and an understanding of the full project lifecycle, including field implementation and documentation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Principal Structural Designer with 5-10 years of experience in Charlotte, NC, the estimated salary range is typically between $95,000 and $130,000 annually. This estimate considers the cost of living in the Charlotte metropolitan area, the specialized nature of structural engineering design, and the leadership responsibilities associated with a "Principal" title.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Offering robust coverage for employees and their families.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match: A strong retirement savings plan to support long-term financial security.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holidays: Generous allocation of leave days for rest and personal needs.
• Professional Development and Training: Opportunities for continuous learning, certifications, and skill enhancement relevant to structural engineering and design.
• Life and Disability Insurance: Providing financial protection against unforeseen circumstances.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Support services for personal and work-related challenges.
• Potential for Performance Bonuses: Based on individual and company performance.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday. While the role is on-site, there may be occasional flexibility required for critical project deadlines or urgent field support needs, which would be communicated in advance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on general industry data for similar roles in the specified location and experience level. Actual compensation will depend on the candidate's specific qualifications, experience, and the company's compensation philosophy.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering & Construction. Zachry Group operates within a sector that demands precision, safety, and robust project execution. This implies a culture that values technical proficiency, adherence to stringent standards, and a strong commitment to project delivery. Company Size: Zachry Group is a large, established organization. This scale suggests access to extensive resources, diverse project opportunities, and structured career paths, but also a need for clear processes and effective communication across departments. Founded: Founded in 1924, Zachry Group has a long history and deep expertise in the engineering and construction industry. This legacy points to a company culture built on experience, reliability, and a commitment to long-term client relationships and employee development.

Team Structure:

• The Principal Designer will likely be part of a dedicated Structural Engineering department within Zachry Engineering Corporation (ZEC).
• This department will comprise a mix of structural engineers, designers, and drafters, with the Principal Designer holding a senior technical leadership position.
• Collaboration is expected with other engineering disciplines (civil, mechanical, electrical, etc.) and project management teams.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis and Insights: Emphasis on using engineering principles and software to analyze structural loads, stresses, and performance to inform design decisions.
• Workflow Planning and Optimization: Implementing efficient design processes, leveraging CADD and BIM, to streamline project delivery and minimize errors.
• Automation and Efficiency Practices: Exploring and utilizing tools and techniques to automate repetitive tasks in design and documentation, thereby improving overall project efficiency.

Company Website: https://www.zachrygroup.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding Zachry Group's long history and large scale is key. The company culture is likely to be safety-conscious, results-oriented, and focused on technical excellence, which is critical for operations professionals in this sector.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior individual contributor or early-stage technical leadership position within the engineering design operations. It signifies a transition from purely executing designs to guiding others, solving complex technical problems, and ensuring the successful application of designs in the field. The "Principal" title indicates a high level of expertise and influence within the discipline.

Reporting Structure: The Principal Designer will likely report to a Structural Engineering Manager or Director. They will, in turn, supervise and provide technical direction to a team of structural designers and drafters. Collaboration with Project Managers and leads from other disciplines will be a significant aspect of the role.

Operations Impact: The Principal Designer has a direct impact on project success by ensuring the structural integrity, constructability, and cost-effectiveness of designs. Their field support and oversight directly contribute to the efficient and safe execution of construction, minimizing delays and rework, thereby safeguarding project timelines and budgets.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specialized structural design areas, advanced CADD/BIM techniques, or structural analysis software. Potential to become a subject matter expert.
• Leadership Development: Progression into management roles, such as Structural Engineering Manager, or taking on larger, more complex project leadership responsibilities.
• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gaining broader project understanding by working closely with other engineering disciplines and project management, leading to a more holistic view of project operations.
• Industry Certifications: Pursuing advanced certifications (e.g., P.E. license if not already held, specialized BIM certifications) to enhance professional credentials and marketability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Principal" designation implies a significant level of responsibility and potential for future growth into management or highly specialized technical leadership roles within Zachry Group's operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, indicating a traditional office environment within Zachry Engineering Corporation's Charlotte, NC location. This setting is designed for collaborative work, team meetings, and focused individual tasks.

Office Location(s): Charlotte, North Carolina. This location offers a vibrant business environment with good accessibility and a strong talent pool for engineering professionals.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office space is expected to facilitate team collaboration through shared workspaces, meeting rooms, and informal discussion areas, crucial for design coordination.
• Operations Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard CADD software, engineering analysis tools, project management systems, and necessary computing hardware.
• Operations Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with fellow structural designers, engineers, and project teams, promoting knowledge sharing and efficient problem-solving.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, typically Monday through Friday. While the role is primarily office-based, occasional site visits or fieldwork may require adjustments to the schedule, with advance notice.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role suggests a structured work environment where direct team interaction and immediate access to resources are prioritized, which is common for complex engineering and construction operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Application Submission: Submit resume and any requested supporting documents through the Oracle Cloud portal.
2. Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review applications for basic qualifications and experience.
3. Technical Interview: A discussion with hiring managers or senior engineers focusing on structural design principles, CADD proficiency, and experience with steel/concrete structures. Be prepared to discuss your approach to design challenges.
4. Portfolio Review & Case Study Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present selected projects from your portfolio. Focus on demonstrating your design process, problem-solving abilities, and impact. Be ready to discuss specific technical details and challenges.
5. Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Interaction with potential team members to assess collaboration style, leadership potential, and fit with Zachry Group's culture. Questions may explore how you handle team dynamics and conflict resolution.
6. Final Interview: A conversation with senior leadership to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and final offer terms.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most relevant and impactful projects. Prioritize those involving complex steel and concrete structures, significant CADD work, and challenging field applications.
• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, and the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, efficiency gains, improved structural performance, successful installation).
• Highlight Process: Explain your design methodology, CADD workflow, and how you managed project documentation, especially as-built records.
• Showcase Leadership: For team-based projects, describe your role in leading, mentoring, and coordinating with team members.
• Prepare for Technical Deep Dives: Be ready to answer detailed questions about your design choices, software usage, and problem-solving approaches.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: You may be presented with a hypothetical structural design problem and asked to outline your approach, considerations, and potential solutions. Focus on logical thinking, code compliance, and constructability.
• CADD/BIM Exercise: A practical task might involve demonstrating specific CADD functionalities or explaining how you would model a particular structural element.
• Problem-Solving Case: Be prepared to discuss a past complex technical challenge you faced in the field or design office and how you resolved it.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and potential technical challenges indicates that Zachry Group values demonstrated practical skills and the ability to articulate design processes and solutions effectively.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CADD Software: Expertise in industry-standard CADD platforms such as AutoCAD, Revit, or MicroStation is essential. Proficiency in creating detailed 2D drawings and 3D models for structural components.
• Structural Analysis Software: Familiarity with tools like STAAD.Pro, SAP2000, ETABS, or similar for performing structural analysis and design calculations.
• BIM Software: Experience with Building Information Modeling (BIM) platforms and workflows, particularly for coordination and clash detection.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Project Management Software: Understanding of tools like Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, or similar for project scheduling, tracking, and reporting on design progress.
• Data Visualization Tools: While not primary, familiarity with tools that help present design data or project status can be beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for organizing, storing, and retrieving design documents, specifications, and project-related information.
• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency with communication and collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for team interaction and file sharing.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong command of CADD and structural analysis software is critical. Experience with BIM and project management tools will further enhance a candidate's suitability for this role within a large engineering firm.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount value in the construction and engineering industry, emphasizing safe design practices and site operations.
• Integrity and Ethics: Upholding high ethical standards in all business dealings and design decisions.
• Excellence and Quality: A commitment to delivering high-quality engineering solutions that meet or exceed client expectations and industry standards.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Fostering a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and cross-functional cooperation is encouraged to achieve project goals.
• Innovation and Continuous Improvement: Encouraging new ideas and methods to enhance design processes, efficiency, and project outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires seamless collaboration with other engineering disciplines, project managers, construction teams, and clients to ensure project alignment.
• Process Review Culture: Openness to feedback and participation in design reviews to continuously improve processes and project deliverables.
• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that promotes sharing expertise, best practices, and lessons learned among team members to foster collective growth and project success.

📝 Enhancement Note: Zachry Group's values likely reflect the demands of the engineering and construction sector, prioritizing safety, quality, and collaboration. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate how their work aligns with these principles.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Project Demands: Balancing the needs of multiple projects simultaneously, each with unique technical requirements, timelines, and stakeholders.
• Field Integration Complexity: Ensuring that designs are practical for construction and effectively addressing unforeseen site conditions or constructability issues.
• Keeping Pace with Technology: Adapting to evolving CADD, BIM, and structural analysis software and methodologies to maintain efficiency and competitiveness.
• Mentoring and Developing Talent: Effectively guiding and developing junior designers to enhance the overall capability and capacity of the design team.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized courses and certifications in areas like seismic design, advanced materials, or complex structural analysis.
• BIM and Digital Transformation: Opportunities to become proficient in advanced BIM workflows, digital twin technologies, and other emerging design technologies.
• Project Leadership: Developing skills in managing larger projects, client relations, and potentially leading project teams.
• Industry Engagement: Participation in industry conferences, professional organizations, and technical committees to stay abreast of best practices and network with peers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges in this role are typical for a senior operational position in engineering, requiring adaptability, strong problem-solving skills, and a commitment to continuous learning.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex structural design project you led. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure its successful completion and field implementation?"
• "How do you approach the process of creating and verifying as-built documentation, especially when field conditions differ significantly from initial designs?"
• "Walk me through your typical workflow for designing a steel or concrete structure using CADD software. How do you ensure accuracy and efficiency?"
• "How do you handle disagreements or technical conflicts within a design team or with other disciplines?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of Zachry Group, what do you believe are the most critical values for a Principal Designer in this organization?"
• "How do you contribute to a culture of safety and quality in a design and construction environment?"
• "Describe your experience working in a large, established engineering firm. How do you navigate organizational structures and interdisciplinary collaboration?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame each project as a narrative: the challenge, your role and approach, the solution, and the measurable outcome.
• Visual Aids: Use clear, high-quality images, diagrams, and renderings from your CADD work. If presenting digitally, use screen sharing to demonstrate specific aspects of your models.
• Focus on Impact: Quantify achievements whenever possible. Instead of "designed a bridge," say "designed a bridge that reduced construction time by 15% and supported loads X% beyond initial requirements."
• Address Field Integration: Specifically highlight how your designs considered constructability and how you managed field issues or provided support.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will likely assess your technical depth, leadership capabilities, problem-solving skills, and how well you align with Zachry Group's operational values and project execution methodologies.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Oracle Cloud job portal link.
• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your experience with structural design (steel and concrete), CADD proficiency, leadership in design teams, and direct experience with field support, verifications, and as-built documentation. Use keywords from the job description.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a digital portfolio that showcases your most relevant projects. Focus on quality over quantity, and be ready to discuss your contributions, design choices, and the impact of your work.
• Research Zachry Group: Understand their history, major projects, and company values. This will help you tailor your responses during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in their operations.
• Practice Interview Questions: Rehearse answers to common technical, behavioral, and situational questions, particularly those related to design challenges, leadership, and field operations.

⚠️ 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.

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