Aviation Practice Leader

RS&H•Houston, TX

About The Position

RS&H seeks an experienced Aviation Discipline Leader to build and lead our Houston aviation practice. This isn't just a management role – it's an opportunity where you'll become our go-to aviation engineering leader in the Houston market while building equity in a nationally-recognized, employee-owned firm. You'll have autonomy to build the Houston practice while being supported by our national aviation expertise and multidisciplinary capabilities. In this role, you will have the opportunity to lead, develop and deliver projects of varying sizes and complexity, manage the client relationship, grow your team, and assist the team in winning work. We're offering partnership, not just employment. Why Houston? Why Now? Houston sits at the center of one of America's most dynamic aviation markets. With explosive regional growth, a booming aerospace sector, and accelerating infrastructure investment across Southeast Texas, there's never been a better time to lead aviation infrastructure development.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Civil/Structural Engineering from ABET-accredited program
12+ years of aviation or infrastructure engineering experience
Texas PE license (or ability to obtain within 6 months)
Proven success leading design teams and managing client relationships
Strong business development track record
Excellent communication and presentation skills
Willingness to travel across Southeast Texas (typically day trips)

Nice To Haves

Established relationships within Texas aviation markets
Active in regional professional organizations
Experience with FAA grant programs and airport funding
Background spanning design and construction administration

Responsibilities

Establish RS&H as the premier aviation engineering firm across Southeast Texas
Build deep relationships with airport authorities, airlines, and key stakeholders throughout the region
Drive business development from the Gulf Coast to Central Texas
Lead local industry engagement and professional networks
Recruit and mentor top engineering talent from Houston's strong technical workforce
Lead projects spanning airfield design, terminal infrastructure, utilities, and everything in between
Oversee project execution from concept through construction—managing contracts, quality, budget, and client satisfaction
Collaborate with Houston-based multidisciplinary teams while leveraging national resources
Define strategic direction for the Houston practice alongside senior leadership
Work directly with senior leadership to deploy aviation initiatives across the state
Participate in firm equity and bonus programs