Principal Designer C/S

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Principal Civil Structural Designer

Company: Zachry Group

Location: Houston, Texas, United States

Job Type: Full time

Category: Engineering / Construction Operations

Date Posted: September 17, 2026

Experience Level: 15+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead complex structural design initiatives, focusing on both 2D drawings and 3D modeling for steel and concrete systems.

• Lead and mentor junior design teams, transferring expertise in CAD tools and design standards for enhanced project delivery.

• Ensure rigorous adherence to quality assurance (QA) standards, project specifications, and interdisciplinary coordination protocols.

• Provide critical field support, including retrofit verifications, as-built documentation, and oversight during installation phases.

• Facilitate and conduct 3D model reviews to proactively identify and resolve design interferences.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior-level individual contributor with significant leadership and mentorship responsibilities, focusing on the technical execution and quality assurance of civil/structural design projects. The emphasis on AVEVA E3D and Advanced Work Packaging suggests a company that is investing in modern digital engineering and construction methodologies.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Produce complex structural drawings and 3D models for steel and concrete systems, ensuring alignment with client requirements, industry codes (ACI, AISC, IBC), and project specifications.

• Train and mentor junior design personnel on best practices in creating detailed 2D and 3D structural designs and models, leveraging proficient use of CAD software.

• Develop preliminary designs and propose optimal procedures for engineering review and approval, demonstrating strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

• Serve as a Project Design Lead or designated checker, taking accountability for the technical accuracy, compliance, and overall quality of design deliverables.

• Provide essential field support, including conducting site surveys for retrofit verification, documenting as-built conditions, and offering installation oversight to ensure design intent is realized.

• Lead internal and external 3D model reviews using tools like Navisworks, identifying and resolving design interferences to prevent costly rework during construction.

• Uphold and enforce QA standards, project specifications, and discipline-specific guidelines throughout the design process.

• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including engineers, clients, and construction personnel, to ensure seamless integration of technical requirements and project objectives.

• Review vendor shop drawings and construction documentation to verify compliance with design specifications and identify potential issues before fabrication or installation.

• Assist in the estimation of design and drafting manpower requirements for project planning and resource allocation.

• Participate actively in project planning and execution across multiple project scopes, contributing expertise to ensure successful project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of hands-on design, technical leadership, and project coordination, indicating a role that requires not only deep technical expertise but also strong interpersonal and project management capabilities. The mention of AWP suggests an organization that values integrated project delivery and efficient construction processes.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma required; Associate or Bachelor's degree in a related field is preferred.

Experience: Minimum of 15 years of comprehensive engineering drafting and design experience, with a strong emphasis on civil/structural disciplines. Demonstrated experience as a Lead Designer is preferred.

Required Skills:

• Master-level proficiency in CADD software, including AutoCAD and MicroStation, with a strong understanding of Autodesk and Bentley platforms.

• Advanced proficiency in AVEVA E3D/PDMS for complex 3D structural modeling.

• Expertise in Navisworks for model coordination and clash detection.

• Proficiency with Bluebeam Revu for document review and markup.

• Comprehensive knowledge of ACI (American Concrete Institute), AISC (American Institute of Steel Construction), OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), and IBC (International Building Code) standards.

• Proven ability to lead, train, and motivate design teams, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.

• Solid technical understanding of civil/structural design principles and interdisciplinary coordination methodologies.

• Familiarity with construction industry standards and Advanced Work Packaging (AWP) principles.

• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively. Preferred Skills:

• Senior-level AVEVA E3D expertise with a track record of complex project implementation.

• Experience in project planning and estimating design/drafting resources.

• Familiarity with industrial environment requirements and on-site support protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive experience requirement (15+ years) and the emphasis on specific advanced software like AVEVA E3D and Navisworks position this as a highly senior role. The preference for a degree and prior Lead Designer experience further reinforces this, suggesting candidates should highlight their leadership achievements and complex project contributions.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a portfolio demonstrating extensive experience in creating detailed 2D and 3D structural designs for both steel and concrete projects.

• Include case studies that highlight your ability to lead design teams, mentor junior staff, and ensure technical accuracy and compliance with codes (ACI, AISC, IBC).

• Present examples of complex 3D models developed using AVEVA E3D/PDMS, illustrating proficiency in advanced modeling techniques and interdisciplinary coordination.

• Provide evidence of your contribution to or leadership of design reviews, demonstrating your ability to identify and resolve interferences effectively using tools like Navisworks.

• Document your involvement in field support activities, including retrofit verifications and as-built documentation, showcasing practical application of design knowledge. Process Documentation:

• Detail your approach to developing and implementing design workflows that ensure adherence to QA standards and project specifications.

• Illustrate your methods for training and mentoring design teams on CAD software and design standards, emphasizing efficiency and quality.

• Showcase your experience in conducting model reviews and resolving design interferences, highlighting your systematic approach to problem-solving.

• Present your understanding and application of Advanced Work Packaging (AWP) principles in project execution and coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is critical for this role, as it needs to validate not only technical design skills but also leadership capabilities and experience with modern digital engineering tools and methodologies. Candidates should curate examples that demonstrate their ability to manage complex projects and mentor teams effectively.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Principal Civil Structural Designers with 15+ years of experience in Houston, TX, the estimated salary range is $120,000 - $170,000 annually. This estimate considers the seniority of the role, the specialized software proficiencies required (AVEVA E3D), and the cost of living in Houston.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

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

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

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

• Potential for overtime pay and per diem for industrial site work.

• Life insurance and disability coverage.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are 40 hours per week. However, the role may require willingness to work overtime and travel to industrial environments to meet project demands and deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on general market data for senior engineering design roles in a major metropolitan area like Houston. Specific compensation will depend on the candidate's exact experience, qualifications, and the company's internal compensation structure. The mention of overtime and industrial environments suggests potential for higher overall earnings through additional hours.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Zachry Group operates within the Engineering, Construction, and Maintenance sectors, primarily serving the energy (oil & gas, petrochemical, power generation), industrial, and infrastructure markets. This context implies a fast-paced, project-driven environment with a strong emphasis on safety, efficiency, and technical excellence.

Company Size: Zachry Group is a large enterprise, typically employing thousands of individuals across various divisions and projects globally. This scale offers opportunities for broad exposure, diverse project types, and potential for career advancement within a well-established organization.

Founded: Founded in 1924, Zachry Group has a long-standing history and extensive experience in the industry. This legacy suggests a stable company with deep operational knowledge and established processes, likely valuing tradition alongside innovation.

Team Structure:

• The Civil/Structural Design team is likely composed of experienced designers, drafters, and potentially junior engineers, led by senior or principal designers.

• Reporting structure will typically involve reporting to a Design Manager, Engineering Manager, or Project Manager, with close collaboration with lead engineers from other disciplines (e.g., Process, Mechanical, Electrical, Instrumentation).

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving frequent interaction with project management, procurement, construction, and client representatives to ensure integrated project delivery and resolve design-related issues. Methodology:

• Data analysis and insights are driven by project requirements, client specifications, and industry codes, with a focus on ensuring technical accuracy and constructability.

• Workflow planning and optimization strategies are geared towards efficient project execution, often incorporating methodologies like Advanced Work Packaging (AWP) for better constructability and scheduling.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely emphasized through the use of advanced CAD and 3D modeling software (AVEVA E3D, Navisworks) to streamline design processes, improve coordination, and reduce errors.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Zachry Group's long history and large scale suggest a company that values experience and robust processes. The engineering and construction focus implies a culture that is results-oriented, safety-conscious, and collaborative, especially given the mention of AWP. Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of these industry dynamics.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at the "Principal" level, signifying an expert individual contributor with significant technical authority and leadership capabilities. It represents a career pinnacle for many designers, focusing on complex problem-solving, mentoring, and driving technical excellence across projects.

Reporting Structure: The Principal Designer will likely report to a Design Manager or Project Director, overseeing and guiding a team of designers and drafters. They will also work closely with engineering leads from other disciplines and project managers.

Operations Impact: The Principal Designer's impact is directly tied to the successful technical execution and quality of civil/structural designs for large-scale engineering and construction projects. Their expertise ensures designs are safe, compliant, cost-effective, and constructible, directly influencing project timelines, budgets, and client satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of civil/structural engineering or advanced modeling techniques (e.g., advanced AVEVA E3D functionalities, BIM management).

• Leadership Development: Transition into formal management roles, such as Design Manager or Engineering Manager, overseeing larger teams and broader project scopes.

• Project Leadership: Take on Lead Designer roles for major projects, with increased responsibility for project delivery, client interaction, and strategic input.

• Industry Influence: Contribute to the development of industry standards or company best practices in design and modeling.

• Cross-Disciplinary Expertise: Expand knowledge into adjacent engineering disciplines or construction management to foster a more holistic project understanding.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Principal" title indicates a highly experienced role. Growth opportunities will likely involve taking on greater project responsibility, formal leadership positions, or becoming a subject matter expert within the organization. Candidates should articulate their long-term career aspirations and how this role aligns with them.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in an office environment, specifically in the Houston Westchase office, which is described as a supportive and forward-thinking setting. This typically involves collaborative workspaces, meeting rooms, and access to necessary design software and hardware.

Office Location(s): Houston, Texas. The Westchase district is a well-established business hub in Houston, offering accessibility and a professional environment.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed for collaboration, with opportunities to interact closely with other design disciplines and project stakeholders.

• Access to state-of-the-art operations tools and technology, including advanced CAD software (AVEVA E3D, AutoCAD, MicroStation) and coordination platforms (Navisworks, Bluebeam Revu), is expected.

• The team interaction is crucial, with frequent design reviews, brainstorming sessions, and problem-solving meetings integral to the design process.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected, but the role may require flexibility to work overtime and potentially travel to industrial environments. This flexibility is necessary to meet project deadlines and provide on-site support when required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in a dedicated office space emphasizes the collaborative nature of the role. Candidates should be prepared for a structured work environment that supports team interaction and access to essential design tools, with the understanding that project demands may necessitate flexible working hours.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess experience, technical skills, and alignment with the Principal Designer role.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion focusing on your civil/structural design expertise, proficiency with AVEVA E3D, AutoCAD, MicroStation, Navisworks, and your understanding of relevant codes (ACI, AISC, IBC). Expect to discuss specific projects and design challenges.

• Portfolio Presentation/Review: A dedicated session where you will present key projects from your portfolio, detailing your role, technical contributions, leadership, and problem-solving approaches. This is a critical step to demonstrate your capabilities.

• Behavioral/Team Fit Interview: Evaluation of your leadership style, mentoring capabilities, communication skills, and ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders. Questions will likely assess how you handle conflict, motivate teams, and ensure quality.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and the strategic impact you can bring to Zachry Group.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Focus on 3-5 projects that best showcase your expertise in complex steel and concrete design, AVEVA E3D proficiency, leadership, and interdisciplinary coordination.

• Highlight Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions, responsibilities, and impact on each project. Use "I" statements for individual contributions and "We" for team efforts you led or significantly influenced.

• Showcase 3D Modeling: Include visuals or walkthroughs of complex 3D models created in AVEVA E3D, demonstrating your mastery of the software and its application in resolving design issues.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., reduction in design interferences, efficiency gains in modeling, successful code compliance).

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, explain the challenge, your solution (including design methodologies and tools used), and the outcome/results.

• Prepare for Technical Questions: Be ready to discuss design decisions, code interpretations, and problem-solving strategies in detail.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Problem Scenarios: Be prepared for hypothetical design challenges related to steel or concrete structures, requiring you to outline your approach, consider codes, and identify potential issues.

• Modeling/Coordination Exercise: A practical exercise might involve reviewing a model or drawing set to identify interferences or compliance issues, demonstrating your proficiency with Navisworks or other coordination tools.

• Mentorship/Leadership Scenario: Discuss how you would handle a situation involving a junior designer struggling with a complex task or a team conflict.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess both technical depth and leadership potential. A strong, well-prepared portfolio presentation is paramount for this senior role, serving as the primary evidence of the candidate's capabilities and experience.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AVEVA E3D/PDMS: Essential for creating and managing complex 3D structural models. Proficiency is highly preferred and likely a key differentiator.

• AutoCAD: Standard for producing 2D engineering drawings and documentation.

• MicroStation: Another widely used CAD platform for 2D and 3D design, often utilized in large engineering firms.

• Autodesk & Bentley Software: General proficiency across these platforms is expected, indicating familiarity with a broad range of design and engineering tools.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Navisworks: Critical for 3D model aggregation, clash detection, and interdisciplinary coordination. Expertise in Navisworks Manage is expected.

• Bluebeam Revu: Used for PDF creation, markup, collaboration, and document management, essential for efficient review processes.

CRM & Automation:

• Microsoft Office Suite: Standard productivity tools including Word (documentation), Excel (data analysis, spreadsheets), and PowerPoint (presentations).

• Project Management Software (Implied): While not explicitly stated, familiarity with tools used for project planning, scheduling, and tracking (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project) would be beneficial given the project-based nature of the work.

• Document Management Systems (Implied): Experience with systems for organizing and sharing project documentation is likely required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on CAD and 3D modeling for structural design and project coordination. Emphasis on AVEVA E3D, Navisworks, and Bluebeam Revu highlights the company's commitment to modern digital engineering workflows. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their practical experience with these specific tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount value in the industrial and construction sectors, expecting a rigorous approach to safety protocols in all design and field activities.

• Technical Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality, accurate, and compliant engineering designs, driven by expertise and attention to detail.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Emphasis on working effectively across disciplines and with various project stakeholders to achieve common goals.

• Efficiency and Productivity: A drive to optimize processes and workflows, leveraging technology and best practices to deliver projects on time and within budget.

• Integrity and Professionalism: Upholding high ethical standards in all business dealings and professional conduct.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The team fosters close collaboration with engineers from other disciplines (Process, Mechanical, Electrical, etc.), project managers, and construction personnel, ensuring designs are cohesive and constructible.

• Process Review Culture: Openness to feedback and constructive criticism during design reviews to refine deliverables and identify potential improvements.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and technical insights among team members to elevate collective expertise and support junior staff development.

📝 Enhancement Note: Zachry Group's culture likely reflects the demanding nature of the engineering and construction industry, prioritizing safety, technical rigor, and collaborative problem-solving. Candidates should demonstrate alignment with these values, particularly in their approach to teamwork and quality assurance.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Design Requirements: Tackling intricate structural challenges for large-scale industrial facilities that demand innovative design solutions and deep technical knowledge.

• Interdisciplinary Coordination: Managing design interfaces and resolving conflicts with multiple engineering disciplines in a dynamic project environment.

• Mentoring and Development: Effectively training and guiding junior designers to elevate their skills and ensure consistent quality across the team.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying abreast of advancements in CAD software, 3D modeling, and digital construction methodologies like AWP.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Opportunities for in-depth training on AVEVA E3D, Navisworks, and other cutting-edge design and simulation tools.

• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining certifications relevant to civil/structural engineering or BIM management.

• Project Leadership Experience: Gaining experience in leading significant design efforts on major capital projects, enhancing project management and client-facing skills.

• Mentorship Programs: Potential to be mentored by senior leaders within Zachry Group or to formally mentor junior engineers and designers.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges that are directly tied to opportunities for professional growth. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they approach complex problems and leverage learning opportunities to advance their careers within the organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex structural design challenge you faced and how you utilized AVEVA E3D or other advanced modeling tools to overcome it. What was the outcome?" (Focus on problem-solving, technical depth, and tool proficiency)

• "How do you approach mentoring junior designers? Provide an example of a time you helped a team member improve their skills or resolve a design issue." (Assesses leadership, communication, and team development)

• "Walk me through your process for conducting a 3D model review. What key elements do you look for, and how do you ensure interdisciplinary coordination?" (Evaluates process understanding and attention to detail) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Zachry Group's work in the [specific industry, e.g., oil & gas, power] sector? How does your experience align with our projects?" (Demonstrates research and industry relevance)

• "How do you ensure safety is integrated into your design process, especially when working on industrial projects?" (Assesses safety-conscious mindset)

• "Describe your ideal collaborative environment. How do you work with engineers from other disciplines and construction teams?" (Gauges cultural fit and teamwork approach) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly state the objective, your specific role and contributions, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented (highlighting tool usage and design principles), and the measurable results.

• Visual Emphasis: Use high-quality visuals of your 3D models, drawings, and any relevant site photos. Be prepared to navigate through models in real-time if requested.

• Technical Depth: Be ready to answer detailed questions about design calculations, code interpretations, material selection, and constructability considerations.

• Leadership Focus: Emphasize instances where you led teams, mentored others, or influenced design decisions, showcasing your Principal-level capabilities.

• Conciseness: Practice your presentation to ensure it's impactful and fits within the allocated time, focusing on the most critical aspects of your experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on articulating past successes with specific examples, demonstrating deep technical knowledge, and showcasing leadership potential. The portfolio presentation is a key opportunity to prove your qualifications.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Principal Civil Structural Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided Oracle Cloud portal link, ensuring all required fields are completed accurately.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 of your most impactful projects that showcase complex civil/structural design, AVEVA E3D proficiency, leadership, and interdisciplinary coordination. Ensure your portfolio is visually appealing and highlights quantifiable achievements.

• Optimize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to emphasize 15+ years of relevant experience, highlight proficiency with AVEVA E3D, AutoCAD, MicroStation, Navisworks, and your understanding of ACI, AISC, and IBC codes. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Presentation: Practice walking through your portfolio projects, focusing on clear communication of challenges, solutions, your role, and outcomes. Be ready to discuss technical details and leadership experiences.

• Research Zachry Group: Understand their core industries, recent projects, and company values. Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewers about the team, projects, and company culture.

⚠️ 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.