Senior Designer – Power & Utilities
Location: Austin, TX
Company Overview: Burns is a nationally respected provider of specialized engineering services. With over 50 years of experience, we have built a reputation on outstanding client service and are recognized as a Top Workplace and an ENR Top 500 Design Firm. We are committed to guiding clients through complex projects with an unparalleled client experience.
Summary
The Senior Designer is responsible for completing non‑routine design and project tasks of high complexity. The role involves the planning, conceptualization, and execution of complete projects across design disciplines. The Senior Designer will collaborate closely with cross‑functional teams to deliver innovative, effective, and compelling solutions that align with project goals and brand standards, mentor early and mid‑career Designers, and possess strong knowledge of multiple engineering disciplines.
Key Responsibilities
- Determine appropriate 2‑D or 3‑D computer software to complete assigned design drawings for projects and teams of Engineers and Designers.
- Perform non‑routine assignments of significant variety and complexity.
- Coordinate design activities with other team members of other disciplines assigned to the same project.
- Coordinate designs among all engineering disciplines and identify conflicts between disciplines.
- Serve as the lead Designer on projects, overseeing the work of other Designers to ensure consistency, quality, and adherence to deadlines.
- Develop complete drawing packages, sketches, and specifications required to deliver projects within discipline(s).
- Provide the design team with guidance and direction to ensure adherence to project schedules, budgets, quality review schedules, and submission timelines.
- Partner with technical staff to assist in the development and standardization of design procedures and templates.
- Collaborate with Project Manager and technical staff to proactively address issues, challenges, and/or project changes.
- Coordinate the design activities with other disciplines, attending design coordination meetings with team members and client representatives.
- Review designs prior to submission to ensure the project deliverables meet Burns quality standards and client expectations.
- Communicate record changes to all disciplines and keep team members informed of details and schedules.
- Coordinate the contract documents with the construction teams.
- Assist in site inspections during construction stage as required.
- Assist in field data collection and/or field system verifications.
- Mentor early career Engineers, Designers, and Interns/Co‑ops.
- Assist in the studies and selection of equipment to fit the project design.
- Perform all tasks in compliance with Burns (and, when applicable, a client’s) standards, policies, procedures, and engineering codes.
- Apply Burns technical policies, procedures, design analyses, calculations, engineering methodology and codes, and equipment selection criteria.
- Complete special duties as assigned.
Key Requirements & Qualifications
- Associate’s degree in engineering technology or equivalent from a two‑year college or technical school.
- Minimum of 10+ years of progressive drafting and design experience.
- Proficiency in working on multidisciplinary engineering design projects of high complexity.
- Proficiency in design techniques, tools, and concepts involved in the production of technical plans and specifications for at least one engineering discipline.
- Strong working knowledge of multiple engineering disciplines.
- Successful resolution of highly complex design challenges.
- Experience coordinating multidisciplinary design teams.
- Developing and enhancing design standards and quality.
- Reviewing the overall project for quality assurance and standard compliance.
- Strong technical and analytical skills including knowledge of principles.
- Strong knowledge of industry‑standard engineering software and tools.
- Ability to successfully work collaboratively in a team environment.
- Strong attention to detail and problem‑solving skills.
Why Join the Burns Team
Burns is a Top Workplace recognized by philly.com, an ENR Top 500 Firm, and a member of the MEP Giant list. We value innovation, teamwork, and client success. Our culture promotes a positive and inclusive work environment where you can grow professionally and enjoy meaningful work.
How to Apply
Interested, qualified candidates must apply on Burns’ career site at www.burns-group.com to be considered for a specific opportunity. Individuals needing assistance to apply should contact the Human Resources Department at hrdepartment@burns-group.com.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Burns Engineering is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Burns believes that inclusion among our teammates is critical to our success.
Burns is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.