Operations Leader | Structural Engineer

Schaefer Inc; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 160,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

A national engineering firm in Phoenix is seeking an experienced Operations Leader in structural engineering. The role involves leading engineering teams, overseeing project performance, and participating in strategic planning while maintaining strong client relationships. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering, a PE or SE license, and 12+ years of leadership experience. This position allows for a hybrid work schedule, focusing on collaboration and work-life balance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering (Master’s preferred).
• PE or SE license required.
• 12+ years of progressive engineering + leadership experience.
• Proven ability to manage teams, projects + client relationships.
• Strong technical, communication + organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead + mentor engineering staff to achieve utilization, profitability + quality expectations.
• Oversee project performance, risk management + quality assurance.
• Serve as a technical resource + licensed engineer on select projects.
• Manage staff development, performance reviews and workload distribution.
• Partner with business development teams to deliver excellent client experiences and support business growth.
• Actively participate in firm-wide initiatives, strategic planning and professional development.
• Represent Schaefer’s core values and serve as a visible leader of the Phoenix office.

Skills

Team Management

Project Management

Client Relationship Management

Communication

Organizational Skills

Technical Skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering

Master’s degree in Structural Engineering

Job description

Overview

This role isn’t just for a seasoned structural engineer. And it’s not just for someone who enjoys inspiring individuals to continuously improve + reach their goals. It’s the opportunity to lead cool structures, collaborate with passionate people, and lead a national firm’s southwest office.

As a Schaefer Operations Leader, you’ll set the tone for culture, performance + quality expectations while driving profitability, client satisfaction + team development. This role combines hands-on technical leadership with strategic oversight—maintaining Schaefer’s reputation for engineering quality, staff mentorship, and strong client relationships.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead + mentor engineering staff to achieve utilization, profitability + quality expectations.
• Oversee project performance, risk management + quality assurance.
• Serve as a technical resource + licensed engineer on select projects.
• Manage staff development, performance reviews + workload distribution.
• Partner with business development teams to deliver excellent client experiences + support business growth.
• Actively participate in firm-wide initiatives, strategic planning + professional development.
• Represent Schaefer’s core values and serve as a visible leader of the Phoenix office.

Work Environment

At Schaefer, we believe leadership thrives with flexibility + connection. All team members have the option of working a hybrid schedule - in-person for greater collaboration + connection, and remotely for heads down + work/life balance. We value results over rigid schedules, and trust our leaders to balance strategic priorities with the autonomy to lead in the way that drives the most impact.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering (Master’s preferred).
• PE or SE license required.
• 12+ years of progressive engineering + leadership experience.
• Proven ability to manage teams, projects + client relationships.
• Strong technical, communication + organizational skills.