Principal Designer Piping

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Principal Designer Piping Company: Zachry Group Location: Downers Grove, Illinois, United States Job Type: Full time Category: Engineering Design Operations Date Posted: 2025-09-19 Experience Level: 10+ years

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage complex piping design projects from conceptualization through to detailed engineering, ensuring adherence to project scope, budget, and schedule.
• Uphold and enforce rigorous piping design standards, specifications, and best practices, ensuring compliance with all relevant industry codes (e.g., ASME, API) and regulatory requirements.
• Drive innovation in piping design methodologies and leverage advanced technology to enhance design efficiency, accuracy, and constructability.
• Mentor and guide junior designers and engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence, continuous improvement, and knowledge sharing within the design team.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the input data points to an engineering design role, given the emphasis on "design center" and "overseeing design processes," this role can be framed within an operational context of managing design workflows and ensuring efficient project execution. The "Principal" title suggests a senior level of responsibility, impacting operational efficiency through design quality and standardization.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee the development of detailed piping design deliverables, including P&IDs, isometric drawings, piping layout drawings, stress analysis, and material specifications.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional engineering teams (process, mechanical, civil, structural, instrumentation) to integrate piping designs seamlessly into overall project execution.
• Conduct thorough design reviews, HAZOP studies, and constructability assessments to identify and mitigate potential design risks and optimize plant operations.
• Manage the piping design team's workload, resource allocation, and performance, ensuring timely and high-quality output that meets client and project requirements.
• Develop and maintain piping design standards, templates, and databases to ensure consistency and efficiency across all projects.
• Stay abreast of industry advancements in piping design technology, materials, and methodologies, and champion their adoption where beneficial for operational improvements.
• Provide technical expertise and support during the procurement, fabrication, and construction phases, resolving design-related queries and site issues promptly.
• Ensure that all piping designs are optimized for constructability, maintainability, and operational safety, considering factors such as access for maintenance, operability, and ergonomic considerations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are inferred from a senior piping design role, focusing on the operational aspects of managing the design process, ensuring quality, and driving efficiency through standardization and mentorship, aligning with typical senior engineering operations functions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline.
• Advanced degrees or professional engineering (PE) certification are highly advantageous.

Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in piping design, with a significant portion focused on leadership or principal-level responsibilities within EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) environments or similar large-scale industrial projects.
• Proven track record of successfully leading piping design efforts for complex projects in sectors such as petrochemical, chemical, oil and gas, or power generation.

Required Skills:

• Deep expertise in piping design principles, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and stress analysis.
• Proficiency in industry-leading 3D modeling and CAD software such as AutoCAD Plant 3D, AVEVA E3D/PDMS, Intergraph SmartPlant 3D, or similar.
• Comprehensive knowledge of international piping codes and standards (ASME B31.3, B31.1, API 520/521/6D, etc.) and their practical application.
• Strong understanding of P&ID development, isometric drawing production, and piping layout best practices.
• Experience with piping stress analysis software (e.g., CAESAR II, ROHR2) and interpretation of results.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills with the ability to mentor and develop engineering talent.
• Superior problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making capabilities.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present technical information clearly to diverse audiences.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with project management methodologies and tools.
• Familiarity with materials science and selection for piping components.
• Knowledge of plant information management systems (PIMS) and data integration.
• Experience in digital transformation initiatives within engineering design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The skills and qualifications are extrapolated based on the "Principal Designer Piping" title and the typical requirements for such senior roles in the engineering and construction industry, emphasizing both technical proficiency and leadership capabilities crucial for operational oversight.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of piping design projects, highlighting complexity, scale, and sector.
• Detailed case studies demonstrating leadership in piping design, including project challenges, design solutions, and successful outcomes.
• Evidence of process optimization within piping design workflows, showcasing improvements in efficiency, accuracy, or cost reduction.
• Examples of how advanced design software and technologies were implemented to achieve project objectives and operational excellence.
• Documentation illustrating adherence to and development of piping design standards and specifications.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of P&ID development and review processes, emphasizing clarity and operability.
• Demonstrations of isometric drawing generation and checking procedures for accuracy and completeness.
• Documentation of piping layout design processes, including considerations for access, maintenance, and constructability.
• Records of piping stress analysis methodologies and reporting, including interpretation and application of results.
• Evidence of collaboration protocols and interdisciplinary coordination processes for piping design integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Principal Designer role, a portfolio would not only demonstrate technical skill but also process management capabilities. The emphasis is on how the candidate has optimized design processes and systems to ensure efficient and high-quality outcomes, reflecting an operational mindset.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: For a Principal Designer Piping with 10+ years of experience in the Downers Grove, IL area, the estimated annual salary range is typically between $120,000 and $170,000. This range can fluctuate based on specific project demands, the candidate's exact experience, and the overall economic conditions impacting the engineering and construction sector.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous paid time off (PTO) and holiday schedule.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match.
• Life insurance and disability coverage.
• Professional development opportunities, including training, certifications, and conference attendance.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses and profit-sharing.
• Employee assistance programs (EAP).

Working Hours: The standard working hours for this on-site position are 40 hours per week, typically Monday through Friday. However, project demands may occasionally require extended hours or weekend work to meet critical deadlines, reflecting the operational tempo of large engineering projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is estimated based on industry benchmarks for Principal-level engineering roles in the specified geographic location, considering the experience level and the typical compensation structures in the engineering and construction sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Zachry Group operates within the Engineering, Construction, and Maintenance sectors, serving a diverse range of clients in the industrial, energy, and infrastructure markets. This broad industry exposure means operations professionals are expected to adapt to various project types and client needs. Company Size: Zachry Group is a large, established organization, which typically means robust operational processes, structured career paths, and ample resources for professional development. For operations roles, this size offers stability and the opportunity to influence large-scale process improvements. Founded: Founded in 1924, Zachry Group has a long history of delivering complex projects, indicating a culture that values experience, reliability, and long-term strategic planning in its operational approach.

Team Structure:

• The Piping Design team likely operates as a specialized unit within a larger Engineering department, possibly comprising junior designers, experienced designers, and potentially leads or supervisors.
• Reporting lines would typically lead up to a Chief Piping Designer, Engineering Manager, or a Director of Engineering, reflecting a hierarchical structure common in large engineering firms.
• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, with the piping design team working closely with process engineers, mechanical equipment specialists, structural engineers, and project management to ensure integrated project delivery.

Methodology:

• Data analysis and insights are crucial for design validation, cost estimation, and risk assessment in piping design.
• Workflow planning and optimization are key to ensuring efficient project execution, focusing on design accuracy, constructability, and adherence to standards.
• Automation and efficiency practices are increasingly adopted, leveraging 3D modeling tools and integrated design platforms to streamline processes and reduce manual effort.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Company context is derived from the provided URL and general knowledge of large EPC firms. The focus is on how these attributes translate to the operational environment for an engineering design professional.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role as a Principal Designer represents a senior-level position within the engineering operations hierarchy. It signifies a high degree of technical expertise, project leadership, and the ability to influence design strategy and operational efficiency. Professionals at this level are expected to guide complex projects and mentor junior staff, contributing significantly to the overall technical capability of the organization. Reporting Structure: A Principal Designer typically reports to a Chief Piping Designer, an Engineering Manager, or a Project Engineering Lead. They, in turn, may supervise and mentor a team of piping designers and drafters, influencing their work and professional development. Operations Impact: The Principal Designer's work directly impacts project success by ensuring the integrity, safety, and efficiency of piping systems. High-quality, well-optimized piping designs lead to smoother construction, reduced rework, improved plant operability, and enhanced safety performance, all critical operational outcomes.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Opportunities to become a subject matter expert in specific areas of piping design, such as high-pressure systems, cryogenic applications, or advanced stress analysis.
• Project Leadership: Progression into roles such as Chief Piping Designer, Lead Project Engineer, or even Project Manager, overseeing larger and more complex engineering initiatives.
• Management Track: Transition into management roles, leading entire engineering departments or disciplines, focusing on strategic planning and operational oversight.
• Process Improvement Initiatives: Leading efforts to implement new design technologies, software, or methodologies to enhance the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the engineering operations.
• Industry Engagement: Representing the company at industry conferences, contributing to code committees, or publishing technical papers, enhancing professional visibility and expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth opportunities are inferred based on the "Principal" title and the typical career trajectories within large engineering and construction firms, emphasizing both technical depth and leadership progression within an operational context.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This position is based at the Downers Grove Design Center, indicating a dedicated office environment designed to support engineering and design activities. Such centers are typically equipped with advanced workstations, collaborative spaces, and access to project-specific software and data. Office Location(s): The primary office location is Downers Grove, Illinois. This suburban location likely offers a professional setting with access to transportation networks and amenities.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be collaborative, with designers working in close proximity or utilizing shared digital platforms to facilitate teamwork and knowledge sharing.
• Access to robust IT infrastructure, including high-performance computing for design software and extensive digital libraries of standards and specifications, will be readily available.
• Opportunities for interaction with project managers, other engineering disciplines, and potentially client representatives will be integrated into the daily workflow.

Work Schedule: The standard schedule is 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. However, the dynamic nature of large-scale engineering projects means that flexibility may be required to meet project milestones and client deadlines, necessitating a proactive approach to managing workload and time effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment description is based on the provided location and the nature of a "Design Center" within a large engineering firm, focusing on the operational aspects of a design professional's daily experience.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess qualifications, experience, and fit with the role's operational requirements.
• Technical Interview: An in-depth discussion with engineering leadership or senior designers to evaluate your piping design expertise, knowledge of codes, and problem-solving skills. Be prepared to discuss your approach to complex design challenges and your understanding of operational efficiency in design.
• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you will present and discuss your professional portfolio, focusing on key projects, your role, design decisions, and any process improvements you implemented. Highlight how your work contributed to project success and operational outcomes.
• Behavioral/Situational Interview: Questions designed to assess your leadership capabilities, team collaboration, communication style, and how you handle pressure or conflict within a project team.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive or department head to discuss overall fit with the company culture and strategic vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 3-4 significant projects that best represent your capabilities as a Principal Designer, showcasing complexity, innovation, and successful outcomes.
• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the challenges, your specific contributions, the design solutions implemented, and the measurable results (e.g., cost savings, efficiency gains, safety improvements). Quantify your impact wherever possible.
• Demonstrate Process Ownership: Highlight instances where you identified inefficiencies in design processes and implemented improvements. Show how you applied operational best practices to enhance design quality and delivery.
• Prepare for Technical Deep Dives: Be ready to discuss the technical details of your designs, the software used, and your rationale behind critical decisions, particularly those impacting operability and maintainability.
• Showcase Leadership: Include examples of how you mentored junior team members, led design reviews, and collaborated effectively with other disciplines.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for technical challenges that might involve solving a hypothetical piping design problem, interpreting a complex P&ID, or analyzing a stress report.
• Practice explaining your thought process clearly and logically, demonstrating your problem-solving methodology and ability to consider operational constraints.
• If asked to present a case study, structure it around the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to effectively communicate your experience and impact.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview and portfolio review process is detailed to provide actionable advice for operations candidates, emphasizing the need to demonstrate not just technical skill but also process management, leadership, and impact-oriented results, which are key differentiators for senior operational roles.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D CAD/Modeling Software: Expertise in industry-standard platforms such as AVEVA E3D/PDMS, Intergraph SmartPlant 3D, AutoCAD Plant 3D, or similar is essential for creating detailed piping designs, layouts, and generating isometric drawings.
• Piping Stress Analysis Software: Proficiency with tools like CAESAR II, AutoPIPE, or ROHR2 for performing thermal and mechanical stress analysis on piping systems, ensuring structural integrity and compliance with codes.
• P&ID Development Software: Familiarity with specialized software for creating and managing Process and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), which are critical for operational process flow.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Management Systems: Experience with systems for managing project data, specifications, and material databases.
• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate reports on design progress, material take-offs, and compliance checks, often integrated within CAD or project management platforms.

CRM & Automation:

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project for planning, scheduling, and tracking design activities and their integration into the overall project lifecycle.
• Document Management Systems: Experience with platforms for managing and controlling engineering documents and revisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools and technology are extrapolated based on the role of a Principal Designer Piping in the EPC sector, focusing on software critical for design, analysis, and project management within an engineering operations context.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Technical Excellence: A commitment to high standards in design, analysis, and execution, ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficiency of engineered systems.
• Integrity & Safety: Upholding the highest ethical standards and prioritizing safety in all design decisions and operational practices.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a cooperative environment where knowledge is shared, and interdisciplinary teams work seamlessly towards common project goals.
• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to enhance design processes, efficiency, and project outcomes.
• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, delivering projects that provide significant value and operational benefit.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: A proactive approach to working with other engineering disciplines, procurement, construction, and project management to ensure all aspects of a project are aligned and integrated.
• Process Review & Feedback: An open culture for design reviews, constructive feedback, and knowledge sharing to continuously improve design quality and operational efficiency.
• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the dissemination of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across the design team and broader engineering organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Team culture and values are inferred based on the typical organizational culture of established engineering firms like Zachry Group, emphasizing attributes that support effective project delivery and operational excellence.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Projects: Successfully navigating the technical and logistical complexities of large-scale piping design projects, often with tight deadlines and evolving client requirements.
• Interdisciplinary Coordination: Ensuring seamless integration of piping designs with other engineering disciplines, which can present coordination challenges and require effective communication strategies.
• Adherence to Evolving Standards: Keeping pace with changes in industry codes, regulations, and technological advancements in piping design and materials.
• Mentoring and Development: Effectively guiding and developing junior designers, transferring knowledge, and ensuring their growth within the company's operational framework.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized training programs in areas such as advanced stress analysis, specific materials, or new design software features.
• Project Management Skills: Opportunities to develop or enhance project management capabilities, relevant for leadership roles.
• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Participation in industry events to stay updated on the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in piping design and engineering operations.
• Leadership Development Programs: Formal training and mentorship programs designed to cultivate leadership skills for managing teams and projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges and growth opportunities are framed within the context of a senior operations role in engineering design, focusing on aspects related to technical expertise, leadership, and continuous professional development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex piping design challenge you faced and how you approached it, focusing on your decision-making process and the operational outcomes." (Preparation: Prepare a detailed STAR method response, highlighting technical solutions and their impact on project efficiency or safety.)
• "How do you ensure your piping designs comply with all relevant industry codes and standards while also prioritizing constructability and maintainability?" (Preparation: Be ready to discuss specific codes and your methodology for integrating these requirements early in the design phase.)
• "How do you foster collaboration and knowledge sharing within a design team, especially when working on large, multi-disciplinary projects?" (Preparation: Prepare examples of your leadership style, mentoring approach, and how you facilitate effective team communication.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Zachry Group's approach to project delivery and engineering excellence?" (Preparation: Research the company's history, major projects, and stated values, focusing on how they relate to engineering operations.)
• "How do you see your role as a Principal Designer contributing to the overall operational efficiency and success of our projects?" (Preparation: Connect your skills and experience directly to the company's goals and the operational demands of the role.)
• "Describe a time you had to adapt your design approach due to changing project requirements or unforeseen circumstances." (Preparation: Focus on your adaptability, problem-solving skills, and how you maintained project momentum.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Structure: Present your portfolio projects with a clear narrative: the project context, the specific challenge, your role and actions, the design solutions, and quantified results (efficiency, cost savings, safety).
• Highlight Process Improvements: Specifically point out any instances where you improved design workflows, implemented new tools, or standardized processes, demonstrating your operational mindset.
• Visual Aids: Use high-quality visuals (renderings, P&IDs, isometric drawings) to support your explanations and make your technical contributions clear and impactful.
• Conciseness and Clarity: Be prepared to present your key projects within a set time limit, ensuring your message is clear, concise, and focused on your impact.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice is tailored to a senior operations role in engineering, emphasizing the demonstration of technical expertise, leadership, process improvement capabilities, and alignment with company culture and operational objectives.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Oracle Cloud link.
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and portfolio to highlight your experience in leading piping design projects, process optimization, and adherence to industry standards. Emphasize quantifiable achievements related to efficiency and project success.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your 10+ years of experience, proficiency with relevant design software, and leadership capabilities. Use keywords from the job description and industry best practices.
• Interview Preparation: Practice answering technical and behavioral questions, focusing on your problem-solving approach, leadership style, and how you contribute to operational efficiency. Prepare your portfolio presentation with specific examples of your impact and process improvements.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Zachry Group's projects, values, and engineering approach. Understand their operational focus and how your skills align with their mission.

⚠️ 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.