Principal, Building Technology & Envelope Leader

Simpson Gumpertz & Heger Inc.; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Simpson Gumpertz & Heger Inc. (SGH) seeks a Principal to drive technical excellence, lead high-profile investigations, and oversee design and construction-phase services for challenging building projects in the U.S.

This senior role emphasizes client relationship management, strategic growth, and cross-disciplinary leadership across SGH offices. The Principal will mentor staff, lead teams, and contribute to SGH’s reputation through industry involvement and high-quality deliverables.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture,Engineering, or Architectural Engineering (advanced degree preferred).
• Professional Engineer (P.E.) or Registered Architect (RA) required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and direct complex, high-profile projects involving new design and the evaluation, investigation, and repair of existing buildings, serving as Principal-in-Charge where appropriate.
• Independently manage significant project portfolios, ensuring sound judgment in project selection, contracting, scope definition, risk management, billing oversight, and fee collection.
• Generate, execute, and sustain external work consistent with Principal-level expectations, demonstrating strong business acumen and market presence.
• Pursue and develop new markets, clients, or practice areas that expand SGH’s technical breadth and strategic reach.
• Serve as a trusted advisor and primary client contact on major engagements, building long-term relationships aligned with SGH’s values and professional standards.
• Exercise sound judgment in evaluating opportunities and safeguarding SGH’s reputation in the marketplace.
• Provide senior technical leadership in the investigation and remediation of complex building envelope malfunctions and failures.
• Direct and oversee design and construction-phase services, including consultation to engineers, architects, contractors, and construction administration support.
• Lead multidisciplinary teams across divisions, offices, and practice areas, fostering collaboration and an all-SGH mindset.
• Mentor, develop, and create growth opportunities for staff across reporting lines, conducting meaningful performance feedback and supporting professional advancement.
• Perform peer reviews of plans, specifications, proposals, and technical deliverables to ensure excellence and consistency with SGH’s standards.
• Support litigation, claims, and expert services efforts by providing authoritative technical insight and professional judgment when required.
• Demonstrate strong leadership presence through industry involvement, including publications, professional societies, speaking engagements, and committee participation that enhances SGH’s visibility and reputation.
• Actively promote all SGH professional services and engage the best SGH expertise to serve clients effectively.
• Demonstrate commitment to SGH’s long-term success, including participation in firm leadership initiatives and shareholding consistent with firm policy.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Business acumen

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture, Engineering, or Architectural Engineering

Job description

Simpson Gumpertz & Heger Inc. (SGH) seeks a Principal to drive technical excellence, lead high-profile investigations, and oversee design and construction-phase services for challenging building projects in the U.S.

This senior role emphasizes client relationship management, strategic growth, and cross-disciplinary leadership across SGH offices. The Principal will mentor staff, lead teams, and contribute to SGH’s reputation through industry involvement and high-quality deliverables.