Director, Structural EngineeringNew York, NY | Hybrid | Full-Time
Position OverviewWe're seeking a
Director, Structural Engineering to lead our Structural Engineering studio and oversee a team of professional engineers and technical staff. In this role, you will be responsible for structural design excellence, staff development, resource planning, and studio profitability, while serving as a key liaison between the Structural Engineering team and the Management Team.
You will provide senior-level technical leadership across complex structural projects involving existing buildings, restoration, rehabilitation, and forensic investigations. The Director will also manage a select portfolio of projects, functioning as Project Manager for approximately 25% of the role.
This is a strategic, people-focused leadership role that shapes technical standards, strengthens team culture, and advances company-wide initiatives.
What You'll DoLead People & Operations- Direct studio staffing, workload balance, and resource planning for the Structural Engineering team.
- Build and sustain a collaborative, high-performing team culture focused on accountability, quality, and growth.
- Coach and develop engineers through mentorship, performance feedback, and career planning.
- Support recruiting, interviewing, and onboarding of structural engineering staff as needed.
Drive Quality & Technical Excellence- Required to sign and seal various structural team inspection reports.
- Establish and uphold technical standards for structural analysis, design, repair, and documentation.
- Oversee and approve key structural engineering deliverables to ensure accuracy, constructability, and code compliance.
- Provide senior technical guidance on projects involving steel, concrete, masonry, cast iron, and wood structures.
- Serve as a technical resource for complex conditions including façade deterioration, structural stabilization, historic construction, and forensic investigations.
- Engage specialty consultants and senior leadership when needed to elevate project outcomes.
Manage Financial & Project Performance- Partner with Project Managers to oversee project budgeting, staffing plans, schedules, and contractual requirements.
- Monitor studio and project-level financial performance, including profitability, utilization, and billing progress.
- Assist with reducing Aged Accounts Receivable and improving cash flow.
- Identify opportunities to improve studio efficiency, workflows, and delivery processes.
Guide Strategy & Communication- Champion HLZAE's mission, values, technical standards, and safety culture.
- Communicate studio performance, staffing needs, and priorities to the Management Team.
- Participate in strategic planning and contribute to firm-wide initiatives impacting growth and operations.
Lead Projects- Serve as Project Manager for selected structural engineering projects (approximately 25% of the role).
- Support business development efforts, proposal development, and client relationship management as needed.
- Represent HLZAE in client meetings, site visits, and industry engagements.
What You'll BringRequired:- 12-15+ years of experience in structural engineering or a related engineering discipline.
- Bachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering (Master's degree preferred).
- Professional Engineer (PE) license required.
- QPSI - Qualified Parking Structure Inspector; will need the ability to procure if not already obtained.
- Demonstrated success leading technical teams and managing staff performance and development.
- Strong project management expertise, including budgeting, scheduling, and client coordination.
- In-depth knowledge of NYC Building Codes, zoning regulations, and existing building requirements.
- Extensive experience with existing buildings, structural repair, restoration, and renovation projects.
- Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Preferred:- Experience in façade restoration, building envelope consulting, or exterior rehabilitation.
- QEWI - Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector certification preferred.
- Background in forensic investigations, historic preservation, or complex structural assessments.
- Experience conducting or overseeing work at heights using supported and suspended scaffolding.
- Proficiency with AutoCAD and structural analysis software; adaptable to evolving technologies.
Work Environment & Schedule- This position is based in New York, NY, with a hybrid work schedule.
- Standard working hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Local travel to job sites as required.
Compensation & Benefits- Salary range: $200,000 - $250,000 based on knowledge, skills, and experience.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, and 401(k) plan with match.
- Paid time off: Holiday, vacation, sick, personal, and birthday.
- Career development and growth opportunities.