Service Line Leader - Chicago


Chicago
Permanent
USD220000 - USD240000
Building Diagnostics
PR/551702_1773231867
Service Line Leader - Chicago

Company Overview

This organization is a globally established engineering and consulting firm specializing in the built environment, with a long-standing track record of delivering technically complex and high‑impact projects. With decades of experience, the firm supports clients across commercial, institutional, infrastructure, and specialty markets, providing integrated expertise from concept through execution.

The firm operates across multiple U.S. and international offices, employing over 1,000 professionals spanning structural engineering, forensic and diagnostic services, building enclosure consulting, restoration and renovation, transportation, parking, civil engineering, and infrastructure systems. Its multidisciplinary model allows teams to collaborate seamlessly across regions and technical disciplines.

A significant portion of the practice is dedicated to existing buildings, including forensic investigations, structural rehabilitation, and building condition assessments. The organization is widely regarded for its ability to address challenging technical problems where safety, performance, durability, and long‑term resilience are critical.

Position Summary

A nationally recognized AEC organization is seeking a senior Service Line Leader to lead and grow its Existing Buildings practice.

This is a leadership role for an experienced consultant who combines strong technical judgment with the ability to guide teams, influence strategy, and scale a high‑performing service line. The position requires navigating complex technical challenges, collaborating with senior stakeholders, and providing direction across investigations, restorations, and assessments of existing structures.

Key Responsibilities

Service Line Leadership

  • Lead the strategic direction and long‑term growth of the Existing Buildings service line.
  • Own performance outcomes related to revenue growth, utilization, hiring, and technical excellence.
  • Serve as a senior technical and leadership resource on complex forensic, restoration, and assessment projects.

Technical Oversight & Quality

  • Provide oversight and guidance on technically complex investigations, structural rehabilitation, and building assessment work.
  • Ensure consistent application of quality standards, professional judgment, and risk management practices.
  • Support QA/QC processes and participate in contract and risk reviews as required.

Team Development & Mentorship

  • Build, mentor, and retain a high‑performing team of senior and mid‑level professionals.
  • Support career development, succession planning, and knowledge sharing within the service line.
  • Partner with leadership on recruiting senior‑level technical and leadership talent.

Business Growth & Client Engagement

  • Maintain and develop key client relationships across commercial, institutional, and infrastructure markets.
  • Support business development efforts, including pursuits, proposals, and strategic client initiatives.
  • Collaborate with marketing and leadership teams to expand the service line's national footprint.

Operational & Financial Leadership

  • Partner with operations and finance leadership on budgeting, forecasting, and performance tracking.
  • Monitor financial performance, staffing plans, and utilization to support sustainable growth.
  • Contribute to broader firm‑wide initiatives, operational planning, and leadership forums.

Qualifications

  • Licensed PE, SE, or RA required.
  • 15+ years experience in engineering consulting
  • Demonstrated leadership experience managing teams and contributing to service‑line or business growth.
  • Strong technical judgment with the ability to guide complex, high‑stakes projects.
  • Proven ability to collaborate with senior leadership, clients, and multidisciplinary teams.
  • Experience operating within a large, multi‑office AEC environment preferred.

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 resume and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organizations, 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 resume so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created. 

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