Senior Project Manager - Structural

Pape-Dawson; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Pape-Dawson Engineers seeks a Senior Structural Project Manager to lead complex structural projects and drive growth across land development and public works. You will mentor teams, manage client relations, and oversee proposals and project finances.

The role requires PE licensure, 15+ years of experience, and expertise in design software such as RISA/STAAD/MIDAS. A PMP/Envision certification is preferred. Houston area preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering is required.
• PE license required.
• 15+ years of progressive experience in structural design, analysis, and project management.

Responsibilities

• Manage structural projects from conceptual design through final design and delivery.
• Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure project alignment and efficiency.
• Oversee construction phase services, including site visits, shop drawing reviews, and RFI responses.
• Develop technical reports, proposals, and client communications.
• Establish project schedules, budgets, and design approaches.
• Supervise and mentor engineering and support staff.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, agencies, and stakeholders.
• Champion QA/QC standards across all projects.
• Provide final review and approval of critical deliverables.

Skills

Leadership

Coordination

Design Leadership

Contracts & Negotiation

Client Management

QA/QC

Problem Solving

Finance & PM

Business Development

Education

Bachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering

Master's degree preferred

PE license required

15+ years of experience in structural design and project management

Experience leading large land development/public works projects

PMP and/or Envision certification preferred

Tools

RISA

STAAD

MIDAS

MicroStation

Job description

Job Description:

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Structural Project Manager to lead complex structural engineering projects and drive strategic growth across our land development and public works portfolio. This role combines advanced technical expertise, high-level project oversight, client leadership, and business development. The ideal candidate will serve as a trusted advisor to clients while mentoring internal teams and contributing to the firm’s long-term success.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering (Master’s degree preferred)
• Professional Engineer (PE) license required
• Minimum 15 years of progressive experience in structural design, analysis, and project management
• Demonstrated experience leading large, complex projects in land development and/or public works, including bridges, water/wastewater facilities, and specialty structures
• Advanced proficiency in structural analysis software such as RISA, STAAD, and/or MIDAS
• Working knowledge of MicroStation preferred
• PMP and/or Envision certification strongly preferred

Key Responsibilities

Manage structural projects from conceptual design through final design and delivery

• Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure project alignment and efficiency
• Oversee construction phase services, including site visits, shop drawing reviews, and RFI responses
• Develop technical reports, proposals, and client communications
• Establish project schedules, budgets, and design approaches
• Supervise and mentor engineering and support staff
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, agencies, and stakeholders

Core Competencies

Leadership & Strategic Project Management

• Lead multiple large-scale projects and project teams simultaneously
• Define project vision, execution strategy, and success metrics
• Align team capabilities with project demands and organizational goals
• Drive accountability, performance, and continuous improvement

Advanced Coordination & Collaboration

• Direct coordination across disciplines, consultants, and agencies
• Resolve complex technical and organizational challenges
• Anticipate risks and proactively develop mitigation strategies

Design Leadership & Change Management

• Oversee conceptual design approaches for complex systems
• Evaluate and communicate impacts of design changes on cost, schedule, and risk
• Guide teams through evolving project requirements

Contracts, Proposals & Negotiation

• Lead contract negotiations and oversee commercial terms
• Develop scopes of work, budgets, and fee structures
• Strategically position proposals to win work and address client priorities

Client & Stakeholder Management

• Serve as a trusted advisor to clients and decision-makers
• Maintain executive-level communication and reporting
• Foster long-term partnerships and client satisfaction

Quality Assurance / Quality Control

• Champion QA/QC standards across all projects
• Provide final review and approval of critical deliverables
• Ensure technical excellence and compliance with industry standards

Problem Solving & Technical Oversight

• Lead resolution of complex engineering and project challenges
• Provide high-level oversight of structural analysis and design decisions
• Support innovation and implementation of best practices

Financial & Operational Management

• Oversee project financial performance, including budgeting, forecasting, and profitability
• Ensure timely billing, revenue recognition, and collections
• Optimize resource utilization and project efficiency

Business Development & Market Leadership

• Lead business development efforts, including client engagement and pursuit strategy
• Represent the firm at industry events and professional organizations
• Identify emerging opportunities and expand client relationships
• Contribute to strategic growth initiatives and market positioning

EEO Statement:

All qualified applicants for Pape-Dawson Engineers will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.