Principal Engineer
Principal - Structural Engineering (Dallas, TX)
Confidential - Leading National Engineering Firm
A highly respected, nationally recognized structural engineering firm with a strong culture of technical excellence and employee ownership is seeking a Principal to lead and grow its Structural Engineering practice in Dallas, Texas. This is a rare senior‑leadership opportunity for an accomplished engineering professional to influence strategy, guide project delivery, mentor teams, and expand key client relationships.
This role includes a uniquely accessible pathway to ownership, offering long‑term upside and meaningful leadership influence without the prohibitively high buy‑in costs typical at most firms.
⭐ What Makes This Opportunity Exceptional
Accessible Path to Ownership
This Principal role includes the option to buy into the firm for only $70,000-$100,000 - a fraction of the $400,000-$500,000 buy-in commonly required at other engineering firms.
This offers a realistic and highly attractive opportunity to build long‑term wealth and leadership equity.
Lead a High‑Impact Structural Practice
You will guide the Dallas structural group's strategy, project portfolio, and technical direction within a firm known for high-level engineering and national influence.
High‑Profile, Complex Projects
The firm delivers major work across commercial, aviation, sports, healthcare, higher education, cultural, and mission critical sectors. You will lead teams delivering some of the most challenging and visible projects in the region and beyond.
People‑First Culture
The organization is known for mentorship, collaboration, and a commitment to growing leaders from within. Principals are empowered to shape teams, culture, and technical excellence.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Strategy
- Lead the Dallas structural engineering practice, including vision, staffing, and performance.
- Develop and grow long-standing client relationships across Texas and nationally.
- Drive business development and lead proposals, pursuits, and interviews.
- Participate in firmwide leadership initiatives and strategic planning.
Technical & Project Leadership
- Oversee structural design and documentation for complex building projects.
- Serve as Engineer of Record on major projects across multiple sectors.
- Ensure technical quality and innovation across all phases of design.
- Guide teams through analysis, detailing, documentation, and construction administration.
Team & People Development
- Mentor, coach, and grow engineers at all levels.
- Lead project teams and foster a culture of collaboration and excellence.
- Support hiring, performance reviews, and professional development initiatives.
Qualifications
- PE required; SE strongly preferred
- 10+ years of experience delivering complex structural engineering projects
- Demonstrated leadership in business development and client management
- Strong technical background with the ability to oversee large, multidisciplinary project teams
- Existing relationships in the Texas market preferred, but not required
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive senior‑level compensation
- Ownership buy‑in opportunity of $70k-$100k (significantly below industry norms)
- Performance‑based bonuses
- Long‑term financial and leadership upside through employee ownership
- Comprehensive health, wellness, and retirement benefits
- Strong mentorship culture and firmwide leadership suppor
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.
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That's why we recommend registering your CV so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.
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