Lead Structural Engineer -- Energy & Industrial Group

Sargent & Lundy•Chicago, IL

6d•$118,023 - $180,313•Hybrid

About The Position

The Lead Structural Engineer will apply expertise in materials, structural analysis, structural steel design, and reinforced concrete design to develop cost-effective solutions for existing and new designs. The role supports modifications and upgrades at power plants and industrial facilities, including preparing calculations, design documents, and specifications, and conducting analyses for complex loads such as wind, seismic, blast, and pressurization. The position leads structural engineering design efforts, guides junior engineers and designers, coordinates detailed design phases, and independently reviews calculations and drawings. Work includes structural analysis and design of steel frames, connections, concrete members, equipment and piping supports, and foundations; development of integrated designs and supporting calculations; preparation of technical specifications and engineering studies; and investigation and resolution of structural engineering issues. The engineer will review existing facilities and recommend upgrades, replacements, and repairs, potentially conducting on-site condition assessments for structures with degradation or intended for new uses. The role includes coordinating with engineers, project managers, clients, and suppliers, mentoring less experienced engineers, and sharing knowledge through Sargent & Lundy’s Communities of Practice. Client interaction may involve travel to client and vendor offices and plant sites for design reviews, condition assessments, construction coordination, and field verification. The position follows a hybrid schedule requiring in-office work three days per week. Sargent & Lundy does not sponsor U.S. work authorization for this position. The company notes that employees may use data, automation, AI, and other digital tools where relevant, while remaining accountable for their work and applying appropriate professional judgment and review.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering with a structural engineering emphasis from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program.
At least 15 years of experience as a member of a project team designing non-commercial heavy industrial plants, focused on analysis of steel structures and concrete foundations and supports for new plants or modifications or replacements at existing plants.
Experience selecting structural materials and reviewing and preparing specifications.
Professional Engineer (PE) license.
Experience writing structural engineering calculations and supporting documentation.
Technical knowledge of practical structural engineering applications, including analysis of structural supports, loads, and design integrity.
Experience with design techniques, tools, and principles used to produce technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models for industrial plants.
Proficiency with at least one of MathCad, STAAD PRO, SAP2000, SAFE, STRUDL, or ANSYS.
Familiarity with design codes and standards such as IBC, ASCE 7, AISC, and ACI 318.
Proficiency with MS Office applications.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Must be authorized to work in the U.S.; the employer does not sponsor work authorization for this position.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Civil Engineering.
Construction and start-up experience.
Commissioning experience.
Interest in learning and effectively using emerging technologies relevant to the role; experience with AI, automation, programming, or similar technologies is valued but not required.

Responsibilities

Apply knowledge of materials, structural analysis, structural steel design, and reinforced concrete design to develop cost-effective solutions for new designs and existing facilities.
Support power plant and industrial facility modifications and upgrades by creating calculations, design documents, and specifications.
Conduct structural analyses involving complex loading conditions, including wind, seismic, blast, and pressurization.
Lead structural engineering design efforts and guide junior-level engineers and designers, including coordination of detailed design phases.
Investigate, troubleshoot, and solve structural engineering issues.
Perform structural analysis and design of steel frames, connections, concrete members, equipment and piping supports, and foundations using computer tools.
Develop integrated structural designs and supporting calculations for planned work.
Prepare technical specifications for structural materials and prepare engineering studies.
Independently review work by others, including calculations and drawing preparation.
Coordinate with and provide guidance to engineers, project managers, client personnel, and suppliers to ensure complete and timely designs.
Review existing facilities and recommend upgrades and replacements; present findings and recommendations to clients and peers.
Conduct on-site structural condition assessments and recommend repairs or modifications to existing structures as needed.
Share knowledge with experienced engineers through the company’s processes and Communities of Practice.
Mentor less experienced engineers.
Travel to client and vendor offices and plant sites for design reviews, condition assessments, construction coordination, and field verification of designs as needed.