Principal, Building Technology - Lead Complex Projects

Simpson Gumpertz & Heger (SGH); Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 214,000 - 273,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid Time Off

Parental Leave

Profit Sharing and 401(k)

Health Insurance (Medical, Dental &amp

Vision)

Short and Long-Term Disability

Life Insurance

Tuition Reimbursement

Job summary

Simpson Gumpertz & Heger (SGH) is seeking a Principal to provide senior leadership in engineering, client development, and project delivery for complex building projects. This role leads high-risk assignments, mentors staff, and expands SGH’s external work and market presence.

The successful candidate will direct design and construction-phase services, manage portfolios, and cultivate client relationships while upholding SGH’s standards and reputation across offices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture, Engineering, or Architectural Engineering; 15+ years of experience in an architectural/engineering or construction management environment.
• Professional Engineer (P.E.) or Registered Architect (RA) required (as applicable to discipline) in the state of Chicago.
• Demonstrated multi-year experience directing complex projects and serving as Principal-in-Charge or equivalent leadership role.
• Proven track record of generating and sustaining external work and attracting clients.
• Established professional reputation as a top provider in the marketplace.
• Strong business judgment, risk awareness, and strategic decision-making.
• Leadership ability including mentoring across multiple teams/offices.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation communication skills.
• Commitment to ethical practice and quality assurance, safeguarding SGH’s reputation.
• Ability to travel to project sites as 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, defining scope, risk, contracting, and billing oversight.
• Generate and sustain external work aligned with Principal-level expectations and market presence.
• Pursue and develop new markets, clients, or practice areas to expand SGH’s reach.
• Serve as trusted advisor and primary client contact on major engagements.
• Provide senior technical leadership in investigation/remediation of building envelope issues.
• Direct design and construction-phase services with engineers, architects, and constructors.
• Lead multidisciplinary teams across divisions, offices, and practice areas.
• Mentor and develop staff; conduct performance feedback for growth.

Skills

Leadership

Business acumen

Client relations

Mentoring staff

Presentation skills

Strategic decision-making

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Architecture/Engineering/Architectural Engineering

Job description

Simpson Gumpertz & Heger (SGH) is seeking a Principal to provide senior leadership in engineering, client development, and project delivery for complex building projects. This role leads high-risk assignments, mentors staff, and expands SGH’s external work and market presence.

The successful candidate will direct design and construction-phase services, manage portfolios, and cultivate client relationships while upholding SGH’s standards and reputation across offices.