Principal Designer – Structural Offshore Topside

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Principal Designer – Structural Offshore Topside Company: KBR, Inc. Location: Jakarta, Jakarta Raya, Indonesia Job Type: Full-Time Category: Engineering / Operations (Structural Offshore Design) Date Posted: 2025-10-14 Experience Level: 7+ years (with average of 10+ years recommended) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This Principal Designer role is critical for KBR's Sustainable Technology Solutions division, supporting major offshore oilfield projects in Qatar.
• The position focuses on advanced 3D modeling and design of complex offshore structures, including Fixed Platforms and FPSOs, ensuring adherence to stringent project specifications and procedures.
• Key responsibilities involve detailed structural design, extracting 2D drawings from 3D models, and performing rigorous quality checks on design deliverables.
• This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to significant energy infrastructure projects, aligning with global trends in decarbonization, energy transition, and sustainability.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the input data suggests a focus on structural design, the "Operations Category" has been inferred as Engineering/Operations due to the blend of design, project execution, and cross-functional coordination inherent in a principal-level role within a large engineering firm. The emphasis on "Sustainable Technology Solutions" and "Energy Transition" also positions this role within the broader operational strategy of KBR, impacting how projects are executed and their long-term environmental footprint.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• 3D Modeling & Design: Develop and maintain comprehensive 3D models of offshore structures (Fixed Platforms, FPSO Topsides modules) using E3D/PDMS/S3D, ensuring compliance with project specifications, engineering standards, and safety procedures.
• 2D Drawing Extraction & Drafting: Generate accurate 2D engineering drawings, layouts, and details from the 3D model, utilizing AutoCAD for drafting and annotation as required by project documentation standards.
• Design Review & Quality Assurance: Conduct thorough reviews and checks of design work performed by other designers and engineers, identifying potential issues, ensuring constructability, and verifying adherence to project requirements and best practices.
• Material Take-Off (MTO): Prepare accurate structural steel Material Take-Offs (MTOs) for procurement and fabrication, ensuring completeness and precision for cost estimation and project planning.
• Inter-disciplinary Coordination: Actively coordinate and collaborate with various project teams, including structural engineers, process engineers, piping designers, and other disciplines, to resolve design clashes, integrate different design elements, and ensure overall project coherence.
• Technical Support & Problem Solving: Provide expert technical guidance and support to project teams, address design-related queries, and contribute to the resolution of technical challenges encountered during the design and execution phases.
• Mentorship & Guidance: As a Principal Designer, mentor junior designers, share expertise, and promote best practices in structural design and modeling within the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities have been expanded to reflect the seniority of a "Principal Designer" role, emphasizing quality assurance, inter-disciplinary coordination, and mentorship, which are typical expectations for such positions in large-scale engineering projects. The inclusion of "safety procedures" and "constructability" is standard for offshore structural design.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline.

Experience:

• A minimum of 7 years of direct experience in structural design and modeling for upstream oil and gas projects.
• An average experience of 10+ years is highly recommended for this Principal level position, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of project lifecycles and complex engineering challenges.
• Proven experience specifically within offshore engineering environments, with a strong focus on platforms and FPSO projects.

Required Skills:

• 3D Modeling Expertise: Advanced proficiency in 3D modeling software such as E3D (AVEVA Everything3D), PDMS (AVEVA Plant Design Management System), or S3D (Smart 3D).
• 2D Drafting Proficiency: Strong command of AutoCAD for the extraction and refinement of 2D engineering drawings.
• Offshore Structure Design: In-depth experience designing various offshore structures, including:
  • Floating Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) Topsides modules
  • Fixed Template Jacket Structures
  • Lifted Topsides
  • Float Over Topsides
• Material Take-Off (MTO): Demonstrated ability to accurately prepare structural steel MTOs.
• Inter-disciplinary Coordination: Proven capability to effectively coordinate with multiple engineering disciplines and stakeholders.
• Engineering Fundamentals: Solid understanding of civil and structural engineering principles relevant to offshore applications.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with other relevant engineering software or simulation tools.
• Knowledge of relevant international codes and standards for offshore structural design (e.g., API, DNV, ISO).
• Familiarity with project management principles and lifecycle management.
• Exposure to decarbonization, energy transition, and sustainability initiatives within the energy sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "average experience of 10+ years" has been highlighted as recommended for a Principal role, suggesting that while 7+ is the minimum, candidates with more extensive experience are likely to be stronger contenders. The specific types of offshore structures have been detailed to provide clarity on the expected project scope. Keywords like "engineering standards," "safety procedures," and "best practices" are standard for this level.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• 3D Model Demonstrations: Showcase complex 3D models of offshore topsides or FPSO modules, highlighting design integrity, clash detection resolution, and adherence to engineering standards.
• 2D Drawing Examples: Present a range of extracted 2D drawings (e.g., general arrangements, structural details, fabrication drawings) demonstrating accuracy, clarity, and compliance with drafting standards.
• MTO Samples: Include examples of detailed structural steel MTOs, illustrating methodology, data accuracy, and their use in project cost estimation.
• Case Studies of Design Challenges: Prepare 1-2 concise case studies detailing a significant structural design challenge encountered on a past offshore project, outlining the problem, your approach to resolution, and the positive outcome (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvement, enhanced safety).

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Demonstrate understanding of the standard workflow for offshore structural design, from initial concept through detailed design, fabrication, and installation support, emphasizing how your modeling and drafting contribute to each phase.
• System Integration: Illustrate how your 3D modeling efforts integrate with other design systems and processes, such as piping, equipment, and structural analysis, ensuring a cohesive design package.
• Quality Assurance Procedures: Provide evidence of your involvement in or understanding of design review processes, quality checks, and adherence to project-specific procedures for design deliverables.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio requirements have been tailored to a Principal Designer role, focusing on complex modeling, detailed documentation, and problem-solving. "Clash detection resolution" and "constructability" are key aspects of offshore design that should be visually represented. The emphasis on "project-specific procedures" is crucial for large-scale engineering projects.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: $100,000 - $160,000 USD per annum (or equivalent in Indonesian Rupiah IDR).
• Explanation: This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for Principal Structural Designers with extensive experience (10+ years) in the oil and gas sector, particularly for international assignments involving complex offshore projects. Factors influencing the final offer include specific experience, negotiation, and KBR's compensation structure for senior technical roles in Jakarta. Cost of living in Jakarta, while lower than some global hubs, supports a competitive salary for expatriate or locally hired senior talent.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and eligible dependents.
• Retirement Savings Plan: Contributions to a company-sponsored pension or provident fund.
• Life and Disability Insurance: Coverage to protect employees and their families.
• Paid Time Off: Generous annual leave, public holidays, and sick leave.
• Relocation Assistance: Support for candidates relocating to Jakarta (if applicable).
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and further education relevant to structural engineering and the energy transition.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week (e.g., 5 days x 8 hours).
• Flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines and accommodate varying time zones for international collaboration.
• Overtime may be compensated or taken as compensatory time off, depending on project agreements and company policy.

📝 Enhancement Note: A salary range has been estimated based on industry standards for a Principal Designer in the oil and gas sector, considering the location in Jakarta, Indonesia, and the extensive experience required. The benefits list is typical for a large multinational engineering firm like KBR. The note on flexibility acknowledges the demands of large project execution.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) / Sustainable Technology Solutions / Energy Sector. KBR is a global leader in science, technology, and engineering solutions, with a strong focus on energy transition, decarbonization, and sustainability. Company Size: Large (10,000+ employees). This signifies a robust organizational structure, extensive resources, and a global presence, offering stability and diverse career paths. Founded: 1901. KBR has a long history and deep domain expertise in engineering and construction, particularly in the energy sector, providing a foundation of established processes and a wealth of experience.

Team Structure:

• The Principal Designer will likely be part of the Structural Engineering department within KBR's Sustainable Technology Solutions (STS) business unit.
• This team will consist of structural engineers, designers, and drafters, reporting to a Lead Structural Engineer or Engineering Manager.
• Collaboration is essential, with close interaction with other discipline leads (Process, Piping, Mechanical, Electrical, Instrumentation) and project management teams.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on utilizing advanced modeling tools and engineering principles for accurate and efficient design.
• Process Optimization: Continuous improvement of design workflows and methodologies to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve project outcomes.
• Collaboration & Communication: Strong focus on clear, concise, and timely communication across multidisciplinary teams and with clients to ensure alignment and successful project delivery.
• Sustainability Focus: Integration of energy transition and decarbonization principles into design considerations where applicable, aligning with KBR's strategic direction.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: KBR's positioning in "Sustainable Technology Solutions" and "Energy Transition" is highlighted as a key cultural driver, influencing design choices and project focus. The company's large size implies structured processes and potential for global mobility.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Principal Designer. This represents a senior technical leadership role, signifying mastery of structural design principles, extensive project experience, and the ability to lead complex design tasks and mentor junior staff. It's a position of significant influence within the design engineering domain.

Reporting Structure: The Principal Designer will typically report to a Lead Structural Engineer or an Engineering Manager overseeing the structural discipline for the project. They will also coordinate closely with project managers and other discipline leads.

Operations Impact: The work of the Principal Designer directly impacts project feasibility, cost, schedule, safety, and constructability. Their expertise in modeling and design ensures that offshore structures are robust, efficient, and meet all required performance criteria, contributing significantly to KBR's project delivery success and its reputation in the offshore energy sector. Their contributions are also vital in embedding sustainability and energy transition goals into the physical infrastructure.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced structural analysis, specialized offshore structures (e.g., deepwater, floating systems), or emerging technologies in sustainable energy infrastructure.
• Leadership Progression: Transition into Lead Structural Engineer roles, Engineering Management positions, or Project Management roles, overseeing larger teams and project scopes.
• Cross-Disciplinary Expertise: Develop broader knowledge in related engineering disciplines or project execution phases to take on more integrated roles.
• Global Mobility: Opportunity to work on diverse international projects across KBR's global network, gaining exposure to different engineering challenges and work environments.
• Energy Transition Focus: Develop expertise in designing infrastructure for renewable energy (e.g., offshore wind foundations, hydrogen production facilities) as KBR expands its sustainability portfolio.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Operations Impact" has been broadened to include KBR's strategic focus on sustainability and energy transition, as this role directly contributes to the physical manifestation of these goals. Growth opportunities reflect typical career paths for senior engineers in the EPC sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily an office-based role within KBR's engineering facilities in Jakarta. The description mentions "Service Office (Center Spaces)" which suggests a modern, professional office environment designed for collaborative work. Office Location(s): World Trade Centre 3, Jl. Jend. Sudirman, Floor 3, Suite Kav 29-31, Jakarta, Jakarta Raya, Indonesia. This prime business district location offers good accessibility and professional amenities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office environment is expected to facilitate close collaboration with fellow designers, engineers, and project teams, with dedicated meeting rooms and open-plan areas for team interaction.
• Technology-Rich: Access to high-performance workstations, advanced 3D modeling software (E3D/PDMS/S3D), AutoCAD, and other essential engineering tools and digital platforms.
• Professional Atmosphere: A work environment that emphasizes professionalism, technical excellence, and adherence to project timelines and quality standards.

Work Schedule:

• A standard 40-hour work week is typical, usually from Sunday to Thursday or Monday to Friday, depending on local business practices in Indonesia.
• Project demands may necessitate occasional overtime or adjusted schedules to meet critical deadlines, particularly during peak project phases.
• The role is on-site, requiring regular attendance at the Jakarta office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The office location description has been integrated to provide context about the physical workspace. The emphasis on a "technology-rich" environment is crucial for a design role, and the mention of "local business practices in Indonesia" acknowledges potential variations in the work week schedule.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review focusing on qualifications, experience, and alignment with role requirements.
• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussion with hiring managers and senior technical staff to assess technical expertise in structural design, 3D modeling (E3D/PDMS/S3D), AutoCAD, and offshore structures. Expect scenario-based questions and problem-solving exercises.
• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where candidates present selected examples from their portfolio, showcasing specific projects, design solutions, and the impact of their work. This is a critical stage for a Principal Designer role.
• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: Assessment of soft skills, teamwork, communication, problem-solving approach, and alignment with KBR's values and culture, particularly regarding safety and sustainability.
• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership or project directors for final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-4 of your most impactful projects that best demonstrate your skills in offshore structural design, 3D modeling, and problem-solving.
• Highlight Key Contributions: Clearly articulate your specific role, responsibilities, and achievements on each project. Quantify impact where possible (e.g., "reduced material waste by X%," "resolved Y critical clashes").
• Showcase 3D Modeling Proficiency: Be prepared to walk through complex sections of your 3D models, explaining design choices, detailing techniques used in E3D/PDMS/S3D, and demonstrating how you extracted accurate 2D drawings.
• Explain Design Challenges: For each project, be ready to discuss any significant structural design challenges encountered and how you overcame them, emphasizing your analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Focus on Relevance: Tailor your presentation to the specific requirements of this role, emphasizing experience with FPSOs, fixed platforms, and adherence to project specifications.

Challenge Preparation:

• Conceptual Design Exercise: You might be asked to outline your approach to a hypothetical offshore structural design problem, focusing on methodology, key considerations, and potential challenges.
• Modeling/Drafting Task: A short, practical exercise to demonstrate proficiency in AutoCAD or a 3D modeling tool, focusing on efficiency and accuracy.
• Inter-disciplinary Scenario: Present a scenario involving coordination with another discipline (e.g., piping clashes, equipment interfaces) and ask how you would resolve it.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview and portfolio review process has been detailed to provide actionable advice for candidates. The emphasis on a "Portfolio Review" is crucial for a Principal Designer, and specific tips for presentation and content have been included. "Clash detection resolution" and "constructability" are key areas to prepare for.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Modeling Software: AVEVA E3D (highly preferred), AVEVA PDMS, or Intergraph Smart 3D (S3D). Proficiency in at least one is mandatory.
• 2D Drafting Software: AutoCAD is essential for drawing extraction and refinement.
• Structural Analysis Software: Familiarity with industry-standard structural analysis and design software (e.g., STAAD.Pro, ANSYS, SAP2000) is beneficial for understanding design inputs and outputs.

Analytics & Reporting:

• MTO Tools: Excel or specialized MTO software for material quantity calculations.
• Reporting Tools: Internal KBR systems for project progress tracking and reporting.

CRM & Automation:

• Project Management Software: Experience with project execution platforms (e.g., Primavera P6, Microsoft Project) is advantageous.
• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with systems like SharePoint, EDMS, or similar for managing project documentation.
• Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft Teams, Slack, or other internal KBR communication and collaboration tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary modeling and drafting tools (E3D/PDMS/S3D, AutoCAD) are explicitly called out as mandatory. Other tools are listed to provide a comprehensive view of a typical engineering technology stack in an EPC environment.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount commitment to health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards in all design and engineering activities.
• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all business dealings and project execution.
• Innovation: Driving technological advancements and creative solutions in engineering design, particularly in sustainable technologies.
• Excellence: Striving for the highest quality in design, project delivery, and client service.
• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where diverse perspectives are valued and collective problem-solving is encouraged.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: KBR emphasizes strong collaboration between engineering disciplines to ensure integrated and optimized design solutions. Expect regular meetings and joint problem-solving sessions with process, piping, mechanical, and other engineering teams.
• Client-Focused: A consultative approach with clients to understand their needs, provide expert advice, and ensure project alignment with their objectives.
• Knowledge Sharing: An environment that encourages the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across teams and projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: KBR's stated values (Safety, Integrity, Innovation, Excellence, Collaboration) are integrated, with specific emphasis on safety and innovation within the context of engineering and sustainability. The collaboration style highlights the multidisciplinary nature of offshore EPC projects.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Design Integration: Managing the intricate integration of structural elements with process equipment, piping, and other systems on large offshore platforms and FPSOs.
• Adherence to Stringent Standards: Ensuring all designs meet rigorous international codes, client specifications, and stringent safety regulations for offshore environments.
• Remote Project Coordination: Effectively collaborating with inter-disciplinary teams and stakeholders who may be in different geographical locations or time zones.
• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying current with advancements in 3D modeling software, design methodologies, and sustainable engineering practices.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in E3D/PDMS/S3D or learn new modeling and simulation tools.
• Code and Standard Updates: Access to training and resources on the latest revisions of industry codes and standards applicable to offshore structures.
• Energy Transition Specialization: Gaining knowledge and experience in designing infrastructure for renewable energy sources and decarbonization projects.
• Leadership Development Programs: Formal training and mentorship to enhance leadership capabilities for progression into senior technical or management roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are framed around the complexities of offshore engineering and project execution. Growth opportunities are directly linked to technical advancement, leadership, and KBR's strategic focus on the energy transition.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience modeling offshore topsides or FPSO modules. What are the key challenges and considerations?" (Focus on your approach to complex geometry, module design, and integration.)
• "How do you ensure accuracy and compliance when extracting 2D drawings from a 3D model? What are common pitfalls to avoid?" (Discuss your quality assurance process and attention to detail.)
• "Walk us through a significant structural design challenge you encountered on a previous offshore project. How did you identify the issue, what steps did you take to resolve it, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare a STAR method response with quantifiable results.)
• "How do you approach inter-disciplinary coordination, particularly when dealing with design clashes or differing requirements between structural and other disciplines like piping or process?" (Highlight your communication and problem-solving strategies.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to KBR and our work in Sustainable Technology Solutions and the Energy Transition?" (Research KBR's recent projects and sustainability initiatives.)
• "How do you prioritize safety in your design work, especially in high-risk offshore environments?" (Discuss your understanding of HSE culture and practices.)
• "Describe a time you had to mentor a junior designer. What was your approach and what was the result?" (Demonstrate leadership and knowledge-sharing capabilities.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell the Story: For each project presented, clearly define the objective, your specific role and contributions, the technical challenges, your solutions, and the final outcome.
• Visual Aids are Key: Use high-quality screenshots and diagrams from your 3D models and 2D drawings. If possible, prepare a brief screen-sharing demo of a representative model section.
• Focus on Impact: Emphasize how your design work contributed to project success (safety, cost, schedule, performance).
• Be Prepared for Technical Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your design choices, software proficiency, and understanding of structural principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions are tailored to a Principal Designer role, focusing on technical depth, problem-solving, and experience with specific offshore structures and tools. The portfolio presentation strategy emphasizes storytelling and quantifiable impact.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Principal Designer – Structural Offshore Topside position:

• Submit Your Application: Complete and submit your application through the KBR Careers portal via the provided link.
• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your 7+ years of experience in upstream oil and gas projects, specific expertise in offshore structures (FPSOs, fixed platforms), and proficiency with E3D/PDMS/S3D and AutoCAD. Quantify achievements wherever possible.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select your strongest work samples that showcase your 3D modeling skills, 2D drafting capabilities, MTO preparation, and examples of resolving complex structural design challenges. Be ready to present and discuss these in detail.
• Research KBR & the Project: Familiarize yourself with KBR's Sustainable Technology Solutions division, their recent offshore projects, and their commitment to the energy transition and decarbonization. Understand the significance of projects like Bul Hanine.
• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to answer technical questions related to structural engineering, offshore design, and your experience with the specified software. Practice articulating your contributions using the STAR method for behavioral questions.

⚠️ 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.