Associate Principal, Structural Engineering


San Diego
Permanent
$140,000 - $175,000 USD a year
Building Diagnostics
PR/606825_1787246254
Associate Principal, Structural Engineering

Our client is a highly respected consulting engineering firm specializing in advanced structural engineering, engineering mechanics, infrastructure resilience, and complex technical problem-solving. The organization partners with clients across the energy, government, healthcare, transportation, industrial, and critical infrastructure sectors to deliver innovative solutions for challenging engineering projects.
Known for its collaborative environment, technical excellence, and commitment to professional growth, the firm offers engineers the opportunity to work on some of the industry's most complex and impactful projects while building long-term leadership careers.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Senior Project Manager to join a growing structural engineering and infrastructure practice. This is a leadership-track opportunity for an accomplished engineer who is passionate about both technical problem-solving and developing people.
In this role, you will lead multidisciplinary projects, manage client relationships, mentor engineering staff, and provide technical oversight on highly complex infrastructure and energy-related projects. The position offers significant exposure to cutting-edge engineering challenges involving advanced analysis, seismic engineering, structural dynamics, risk assessment, and mission-critical facility design.
Candidates located in San Diego are preferred, though remote arrangements may be considered for highly qualified professionals.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the planning, execution, and delivery of complex engineering projects.
  • Provide technical direction for advanced structural analyses, including finite element analysis and structural dynamics.
  • Oversee engineering work related to seismic design, extreme event loading, vibration mitigation, impact and blast assessment, and equipment qualification.
  • Support the design and evaluation of critical infrastructure, industrial facilities, energy assets, and mission-critical structures.
  • Develop practical, cost-effective engineering solutions emphasizing constructability, standardization, simplicity, and risk-informed decision-making.
  • Manage project scope, budgets, schedules, and quality objectives.
  • Supervise and mentor engineers and technical staff.
  • Review engineering deliverables and major technical reports.
  • Collaborate directly with clients, regulatory agencies, utilities, and research organizations.
  • Prepare proposals and contribute to business development efforts.
  • Participate in contract negotiations and project risk management activities.
  • Serve as a trusted technical advisor on high-profile projects across highly regulated industries.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or a related discipline from an accredited institution.
  • Master's degree or PhD in Structural Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field preferred.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license required.
  • 8+ years of relevant structural or civil engineering experience.
  • Strong background in structural analysis, seismic engineering, infrastructure systems, or related technical specialties.
  • Experience managing engineering projects and leading technical teams.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently while managing complex technical challenges.
  • Strong client-facing and relationship management skills.
  • Commitment to engineering excellence, quality assurance, and continuous improvement.
  • Record of professional achievement through publications, industry involvement, technical presentations, or professional leadership.
  • Valid driver's license and ability to travel as needed.

Benefits / Growth Opportunity

  • Leadership-track position with significant career advancement potential.
  • Opportunity to work on nationally significant infrastructure, energy, and mission-critical projects.
  • Exposure to advanced engineering technologies and complex technical challenges.
  • Collaborative culture that encourages innovation, knowledge sharing, and continuous learning.
  • Mentorship opportunities and the ability to shape the development of future engineering talent.
  • Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package.
  • Flexible work arrangements available for qualified candidates.

If you're interested in learning more about this opportunity, please apply directly or reach out for a confidential discussion.

FAQs

Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your CV and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organisations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.

Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.

We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business. 

That's why we recommend registering your CV so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created. 

Yes, we help with CV and interview preparation. From customised support on how to optimise your CV to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.

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