Lead Structural Engineer

ZipRecruiter; McHenry (IL); On-site; USD 101,000 - 162,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in civil and environmental engineering is seeking a Lead Structural Engineer for their Water business line. The role involves designing structures for water and wastewater treatment facilities, working closely with experienced engineers in a collaborative environment. Ideal candidates will have a robust background in structural design and significant engineering experience.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of design/engineering experience required.
• Professional licensure (P.E.) preferred; Texas licensure is desired.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Independently complete engineering tasks for Water/Wastewater projects.
• Perform field observations and communicate effectively with clients.
• Manage tasks for staff engineers and contribute to proposals.

Skills

Design

Technical Communication

Problem Solving

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

Civil3D

Revit

RISA

STAAD

Job description

Job Description

Our mission is BUILDING COMMUNITIES. IMPROVING LIVES. With a legacy spanning over 110 years, HR Green is a trusted leader in civil and environmental engineering, consistently delivering innovative infrastructure solutions for our colleagues, clients, and communities. Every day, we help solve complex challenges—especially in water and wastewater infrastructure—in ways that inspire our teams and exceed client expectations. As a top provider of water and wastewater engineering services, we are proud to be ranked No. 168 on Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms list for 2025. Our continued recognition as a Best Place to Work highlights our commitment to creating a collaborative, purpose-driven workplace.

Summary

We are currently seeking a Lead Structural Engineer for our Water business line. If you are interested in working with a small, high-powered group of structural engineers and designers, then this is a great opportunity for you! This role involves designing buildings and internal process structures for water and wastewater treatment facilities. A successful candidate is one looking to advance their career by working alongside Lead Structural Engineers and eventually leading structural projects. You will make significant design decisions with support from Lead Engineers. Typical designs include reinforced concrete structures and tanks, masonry and precast concrete buildings, analysis of existing buildings, and designing ancillary items such as pipe supports, railings, platforms, and catwalks. You will collaborate with experienced structural engineers and designers in an environment that fosters teamwork and professional growth.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Use professional judgment to independently complete engineering tasks within federal, state, and local criteria.
• Complete major design tasks with limited supervision, primarily related to Water/Wastewater and Utility projects, involving concrete, masonry, and steel design.
• Ensure the accuracy of completed tasks using established HR Green QA/QC processes.
• Assist the Client in bidding or contractor selection if authorized by the Project Manager.
• Perform field observations, inspections, and data collection as necessary.
• Respond to contractor questions, prepare project addenda, and recommend change orders.
• Contribute to preparation of engineering proposals, including time and cost estimates.
• Sign and seal engineering documents as an authorized company representative.
• Communicate technical matters effectively with clients.
• Under the guidance of the Project Manager or Lead Engineer, assign and manage tasks for Staff Engineers and project team members.
• Participate in technical and professional associations related to your expertise.

Qualifications

• Water experience is preferred but not required.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in engineering from an accredited institution.
• Professional licensure (P.E.) in one or more states; ability to obtain within six months if not already licensed. Texas licensure or reciprocity is highly desired.
• S.E. certification is a plus but not required.
• 7+ years of design/engineering experience, with demonstrated authority to sign engineering documents.
• Proficiency in office software (Word, Excel, Bluebeam, etc.) and familiarity with CADD and engineering automation tools (AutoCAD, Civil3D, Revit, RISA, STAAD).
• Strong technical communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving skills, and ability to apply professional knowledge.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to operate a motor vehicle for work purposes.

Compensation Range

$101,200.00 - $161,600.00

The actual salary will depend on factors such as education, experience, skills, and location. Benefits include a comprehensive package with details available on our website.

https://www.hrgreen.com/careers/benefits/

HR Green is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, genetics, veteran status, or other protected classifications.