Principal Designer C/S

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Principal Civil Structural Designer

Company: Zachry Group

Location: Houston, TX, US

Job Type: Full time

Category: Civil Structural Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-05-27T18:59:58

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead high-quality civil and structural design solutions, specializing in steel and concrete structures for industrial projects.

• Drive engineering excellence through master-level proficiency in CADD and AVEVA E3D software.

• Mentor and guide design teams, fostering a culture of precision and innovation in engineering operations.

• Collaborate effectively across diverse disciplines to ensure seamless project execution and deliver superior engineering outcomes.

• Champion advanced work packaging (AWP) methodologies to optimize project delivery and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Principal Designer, indicating a senior-level individual contributor with significant design responsibility and potential leadership influence within the engineering operations function. The emphasis on AVEVA E3D and specific codes suggests a focus on complex industrial projects requiring specialized design expertise.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the development and execution of civil and structural designs for complex industrial facilities, with a strong emphasis on steel and concrete structures.

• Oversee the creation of detailed design documentation, including drawings, specifications, and calculations, ensuring compliance with all relevant industry codes and standards (ACI, AISC, IBC, OSHA).

• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to junior designers and engineers, fostering professional development and ensuring design quality.

• Lead interdisciplinary coordination efforts, collaborating closely with process, mechanical, electrical, and other engineering teams to integrate structural designs seamlessly into overall project plans.

• Drive the adoption and implementation of advanced work packaging (AWP) strategies to enhance project planning, scheduling, and execution efficiency.

• Review and approve design deliverables, ensuring accuracy, constructability, and adherence to project requirements and company standards.

• Actively participate in project planning, scope definition, and risk assessment meetings, contributing structural engineering expertise.

• Maintain and enhance proficiency in CADD software, particularly AVEVA E3D, and other relevant design and visualization tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of hands-on design, technical leadership, and cross-functional collaboration, typical for a Principal-level role in an engineering operations context. The explicit mention of AWP and specific codes indicates a need for pragmatic, project-delivery-focused design engineering.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.

Experience:

• Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in engineering drafting and design, specifically within civil and structural disciplines for industrial projects.

Required Skills:

• Master-level proficiency in AVEVA E3D (formerly PDMS) for 3D modeling and design.

• Advanced proficiency in CADD software such as AutoCAD and MicroStation.

• Deep understanding and practical application of ACI (American Concrete Institute) and AISC (American Institute of Steel Construction) codes.

• Thorough knowledge of IBC (International Building Code) and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) regulations relevant to structural design and safety.

• Expertise in civil structural design principles and methodologies.

• Strong ability to perform interdisciplinary coordination and collaborate effectively with diverse engineering teams.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Advanced Work Packaging (AWP) principles and implementation.

• Familiarity with other relevant engineering software and simulation tools.

• Demonstrated experience in team leadership and mentoring junior design staff.

• Excellent communication, presentation, and problem-solving skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on AVEVA E3D and specific codes (ACI, AISC, IBC) is critical. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate deep expertise in these areas. The "10+" years of experience, coupled with the "Principal" title, implies a need for seasoned professionals who can operate with significant autonomy and provide strategic design direction.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 significant industrial projects where you played a lead role in civil structural design, specifically highlighting steel and concrete elements.

• For each project, clearly articulate your specific contributions, design challenges, and the solutions implemented.

• Demonstrate proficiency in AVEVA E3D through visual examples (screenshots, renderings, walkthroughs) of complex models you have developed or significantly contributed to.

• Include examples of detailed engineering drawings, calculation summaries, and specification excerpts that reflect your design expertise and adherence to codes (ACI, AISC, IBC).

Process Documentation:

• Provide documentation or descriptions of your process for developing detailed structural designs from conceptualization through to construction-ready drawings.

• Illustrate your approach to interdisciplinary coordination, including how you manage design reviews and integrate feedback from other engineering disciplines.

• Detail your methodology for ensuring code compliance and safety standards are met throughout the design process, referencing specific ACI, AISC, IBC, and OSHA requirements.

• Explain your experience with implementing or contributing to Advanced Work Packaging (AWP) initiatives, outlining any process improvements or efficiencies gained.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is crucial for this Principal-level role. Candidates should focus on projects that showcase complex steel and concrete structures, advanced 3D modeling skills (AVEVA E3D), and a deep understanding of industry codes. Demonstrating leadership in design processes and AWP will be a significant advantage.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The estimated annual salary for a Principal Civil Structural Designer in Houston, TX, with 10+ years of experience, typically falls within the range of $120,000 - $170,000. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior-level engineering roles in a major metropolitan area known for its significant industrial and engineering presence. Factors such as specific project experience, advanced certifications, and negotiation skills can influence the final offer.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement savings plan with company match (e.g., 401(k)).

• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Life and disability insurance coverage.

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and continuing education.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work schedule of approximately 40 hours per week.

• Potential for occasional overtime to meet project deadlines, especially during critical design phases or for urgent project needs.

• The role is on-site, requiring consistent attendance in the Houston office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry data for similar roles in Houston, TX. Zachry Group is a large engineering and construction firm, and their benefits package is generally competitive. The "Principal" title suggests a compensation level commensurate with extensive experience and expertise.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Construction, and Industrial Services. Zachry Group operates within a sector characterized by large-scale, complex projects, demanding rigorous technical standards, safety protocols, and efficient project management. The company's involvement spans various industrial domains, including energy, petrochemical, and infrastructure.

Company Size: Zachry Group is a large enterprise, typically employing thousands of individuals across its various divisions and projects. This scale implies a robust organizational structure, established processes, and a wide array of resources and opportunities for its employees.

Founded: Zachry Group has a long and established history, founded in 1924. This extensive legacy suggests a company with deep industry knowledge, a stable operational framework, and a commitment to long-term growth and client relationships.

Team Structure:

• The Civil Structural Design team is likely a core component of Zachry Engineering Corporation (ZEC), a division of Zachry Group.

• It comprises experienced designers, drafters, and potentially engineers, specializing in various aspects of civil and structural engineering.

• This team collaborates closely with other engineering disciplines (process, mechanical, electrical, etc.) and project management functions.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using detailed project data, client requirements, and industry standards to inform design decisions.

• Process Optimization: Continuous focus on improving design workflows, leveraging technology (like AVEVA E3D and AWP), and enhancing project delivery efficiency.

• Collaborative Problem-Solving: A culture that encourages cross-functional teamwork to tackle complex engineering challenges and ensure integrated project solutions.

• Safety First: Paramount importance placed on safety in all aspects of design and execution, adhering to stringent OSHA and industry safety standards.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Zachry Group's long history and large size suggest a company with established engineering practices and a focus on delivering large, complex industrial projects. The Principal Designer role will be integral to maintaining high standards of technical execution and fostering collaboration within this structured environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Principal Designer - This is a senior individual contributor role, recognized for extensive technical expertise, proven design leadership, and the ability to mentor others. It signifies a mastery of civil structural design principles, advanced software proficiency (especially AVEVA E3D), and a deep understanding of industrial project execution. Principal Designers are expected to operate with a high degree of autonomy and influence design direction.

Reporting Structure: The Principal Civil Structural Designer will likely report to a Civil Structural Engineering Manager or Director within Zachry Engineering Corporation (ZEC). They will work closely with project managers, other discipline leads (e.g., Process, Mechanical, Electrical), and will be responsible for guiding and mentoring junior designers and drafters within their team.

Operations Impact: This role has a significant impact on project success by ensuring the structural integrity, safety, and constructability of industrial facilities. Effective civil structural design directly influences project timelines, costs, and overall client satisfaction. By leading design excellence and optimizing workflows, the Principal Designer contributes to the company's reputation for delivering high-quality, efficient engineering solutions.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of structural engineering (e.g., advanced seismic design, specialized material applications) or advanced modeling techniques within AVEVA E3D.

• Leadership Development: Transition into formal management roles, such as Civil Structural Engineering Manager, leading larger teams and broader project portfolios.

• Project Management: Develop skills in project management to oversee the execution of projects from a design and engineering perspective.

• Industry Influence: Become a subject matter expert (SME) within the company or industry, potentially contributing to code development committees or industry forums.

• Advanced Work Packaging (AWP) Leadership: Take on roles focused on implementing and optimizing AWP strategies across multiple projects, driving efficiency improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Principal Designer role is a significant career milestone, offering opportunities for both deep technical growth and potential advancement into leadership positions within Zachry's extensive engineering operations. The emphasis on AWP also presents a pathway to specialized operational efficiency roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in a professional office environment within Zachry's Houston Westchase office. This setting typically fosters a collaborative atmosphere with dedicated workspaces for engineers and designers.

Office Location(s):

• Houston Westchase: 3600 W Sam Houston Pkwy S, Ste 200, Houston, TX 77042. This location is situated in a well-established business district, likely offering good accessibility via major roadways and proximity to various amenities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office is designed to facilitate teamwork, with meeting rooms and shared spaces for interdisciplinary discussions and design reviews.

• Technology & Tools: Access to a robust IT infrastructure, including high-performance workstations, specialized design software (AVEVA E3D, AutoCAD, MicroStation, Navisworks), and communication tools essential for design operations.

• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities to interact with a diverse team of engineers, designers, project managers, and other stakeholders, promoting knowledge sharing and collaborative problem-solving.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is approximately 40 hours per week, typical for full-time professional roles.

• While primarily office-based, the nature of project-driven work may require occasional flexibility or extended hours to meet critical deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of this role in a dedicated office space is typical for principal-level design positions requiring significant collaboration and access to specialized software and hardware. The Houston location places the role within a major hub for the energy and petrochemical industries.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess alignment with the core requirements, particularly AVEVA E3D proficiency and experience with steel/concrete structures.

• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions focusing on your civil structural design expertise, experience with relevant codes (ACI, AISC, IBC), and proficiency in CADD software. Expect scenario-based questions and technical challenges related to complex design problems.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you will present selected projects from your portfolio, detailing your role, design approach, challenges overcome, and the impact of your contributions. Be prepared to discuss your AVEVA E3D models and design methodologies.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Meetings with potential colleagues and managers to assess your collaboration style, leadership potential, and alignment with Zachry's values and work environment.

• Final Interview: A conclusive discussion with senior management to finalize offer details.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best demonstrate your expertise in steel and concrete design for industrial applications, highlighting your leadership role.

• Showcase AVEVA E3D: Prepare visual aids (screenshots, short video walkthroughs) of complex 3D models you've created or managed. Explain the modeling approach and any specific techniques used.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, present metrics related to design efficiency, cost savings, constructability improvements, or safety enhancements achieved through your designs.

• Code Compliance Focus: Be ready to discuss how you ensure adherence to ACI, AISC, IBC, and OSHA standards in your design work.

• Narrative is Key: Structure your presentation to tell a compelling story about each project—the challenge, your solution, and the outcome.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Scenarios: Brush up on common civil structural design problems, code interpretation, and best practices for steel and concrete structures.

• AVEVA E3D Application: Be prepared to discuss specific workflows, commands, and advanced features within AVEVA E3D relevant to industrial design.

• Interdisciplinary Coordination: Think about how you would approach integrating structural design with process, mechanical, and electrical requirements in a complex project.

• AWP Awareness: Understand the principles of Advanced Work Packaging and how a structural designer contributes to its successful implementation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily emphasize practical design skills, software proficiency (AVEVA E3D), and the ability to articulate complex technical concepts and project contributions. A well-prepared portfolio and clear communication of design processes are critical for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AVEVA E3D: The cornerstone of this role. Expect deep dives into your proficiency with this 3D design and modeling software, including its capabilities for complex industrial structures.

• AutoCAD: Essential for 2D drafting, detailing, and integration with 3D models. Proficiency in creating and managing CAD files is a must.

• MicroStation: Another widely used CAD platform in the industry; familiarity is highly beneficial for interoperability and broader project compatibility.

• Navisworks: Crucial for clash detection, project review, and coordination across multiple disciplines. Experience in managing and analyzing Navisworks models is expected.

• Bluebeam Revu: A powerful tool for PDF creation, markup, collaboration, and document management, commonly used for design reviews and transmittals.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the design role, but understanding how design deliverables integrate with project management and ERP systems is advantageous. Familiarity with how design processes contribute to overall project automation (e.g., through AWP) is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in AVEVA E3D is paramount and should be a focal point for any applicant. The other listed CADD and visualization tools are standard in large-scale industrial engineering projects and demonstrate the need for a comprehensive technical toolkit.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Engineering Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality, technically sound, and innovative design solutions that meet or exceed client expectations.

• Safety & Compliance: An unwavering dedication to safety in design and operations, ensuring all work adheres to stringent industry codes (ACI, AISC, IBC, OSHA) and company standards.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where designers and engineers from different disciplines work together seamlessly, sharing knowledge and expertise to achieve common project goals.

• Continuous Improvement: Embracing a mindset of learning and adapting, continuously seeking ways to optimize design processes, leverage new technologies (like AWP), and enhance project delivery efficiency.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding the highest ethical standards and taking ownership of responsibilities, ensuring reliable and trustworthy execution of design tasks.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Active participation in integrated project teams, working closely with process, mechanical, electrical, and other engineering disciplines to ensure holistic design solutions.

• Open Communication: Encouraging open dialogue, constructive feedback, and proactive communication to resolve design conflicts and ensure alignment across all project stakeholders.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that values the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise, particularly through mentorship and team interactions.

• Process-Oriented: A focus on following established design workflows and methodologies while remaining open to innovative approaches that improve efficiency and outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Zachry Group, as inferred from its industry and role requirements, likely emphasizes technical rigor, safety, and collaborative execution. Candidates who can demonstrate a strong work ethic, a commitment to quality, and effective teamwork will be well-suited.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Project Demands: Managing intricate design requirements for large-scale industrial facilities, often under tight deadlines and budget constraints.

• Interdisciplinary Integration Complexity: Navigating and resolving design conflicts that arise from the interaction of multiple engineering disciplines.

• Keeping Pace with Technology: Continuously updating skills with evolving CADD software (especially AVEVA E3D advancements) and embracing new methodologies like AWP.

• Mentoring and Knowledge Transfer: Effectively guiding and developing junior designers while managing personal design responsibilities.

• Ensuring Code Compliance: Staying current with and accurately applying complex and evolving industry codes and standards.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced AVEVA E3D Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in AVEVA E3D through specialized courses, workshops, or on-the-job application on more complex projects.

• AWP Certification & Implementation: Potential for training and certification in Advanced Work Packaging, leading to roles focused on operational efficiency.

• Leadership Training: Development programs for those interested in moving into management or team lead positions within the engineering department.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gaining broader project experience by working on diverse industrial projects and collaborating with various engineering specialties.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Opportunities to attend industry events to stay abreast of the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in civil structural engineering and project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant challenges typical of senior engineering positions in large industrial projects, balanced by robust opportunities for professional growth and specialization. The emphasis on AWP is a key area for future development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex structural design challenge you faced on an industrial project involving steel and concrete, and how you resolved it using AVEVA E3D." (Focus on your problem-solving process, technical decisions, and the outcome.)

• "How do you ensure effective interdisciplinary coordination to prevent clashes and design conflicts in a large-scale project? Provide an example." (Highlight your communication, collaboration, and review methodologies.)

• "Explain your approach to mentoring junior designers. How do you balance their development needs with project delivery requirements?" (Showcase your leadership and team-building capabilities.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Zachry Group and our role in the industrial engineering and construction sector?" (Research company history, major projects, and values.)

• "How do you align with our company values of engineering excellence, safety, and collaboration?" (Provide specific examples from your career.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly outline the project scope, your specific role and responsibilities, the technical challenges, your design solutions (especially those involving steel/concrete and AVEVA E3D), and the quantifiable results.

• Visuals are Crucial: Use high-quality screenshots or short video clips of your AVEVA E3D models, detailed drawings, and any relevant renderings. Annotate key features and design elements.

• Focus on Impact: Emphasize how your design contributed to project success, whether through cost savings, schedule adherence, improved safety, or enhanced constructability.

• Code Application: Be prepared to discuss specific instances where you applied ACI, AISC, IBC, and OSHA codes and how you ensured compliance.

• Be Concise and Clear: Respect the interviewer's time by presenting information efficiently and focusing on the most impactful aspects of your work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to articulate their technical expertise, demonstrate their ability to lead and mentor, and showcase their practical application of AVEVA E3D and industry codes through concrete project examples.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Principal Civil Structural Designer position:

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

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 of your most impactful industrial projects, focusing on complex steel and concrete designs. Ensure your portfolio prominently features your AVEVA E3D work and clearly outlines your leadership contributions and problem-solving approaches.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your 15+ years of relevant experience, specifically mentioning proficiency in AVEVA E3D, AutoCAD, MicroStation, and your knowledge of ACI, AISC, IBC, and OSHA codes. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare Your Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio projects, focusing on clear communication of technical details, design rationale, and project outcomes. Practice explaining your AVEVA E3D workflows and code application strategies.

• Research Zachry Group: Understand the company's history, key projects, industry standing, and core values to articulate your fit and interest effectively during interviews.

⚠️ 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.