Principal Structural Engineer - Design Analysis

Zachry Engineering Corporation is seeking a Principal Structural Engineer – Dynamic Design Analysis to lead advanced structural design for combustion turbine foundations and high-speed rotating equipment.

Location: Downers Grove, IL;
Houston, TX;
Omaha, NE;
Charlotte, NC; or Greenville, SC.

• Act as the subject matter expert for dynamic machine‑foundation‑soil interaction (SSI) for combustion turbines and high‑speed rotating equipment.
• Execute and oversee complex finite element analyses to simulate thermal loads, seismic events, and harmonic vibrations, ensuring resonance separation and structural longevity.
• Drive the evolution of design standards for massive reinforced concrete structures, balancing material efficiency with extreme performance requirements.
• Lead multidisciplinary teams through the full project lifecycle—from initial geotechnical interpretation to final site construction and vibration troubleshooting.
• Conduct rigorous peer reviews and forensic engineering assessments for existing facilities to address settlement or vibration‑related issues.
• Provide technical guidance throughout the structural design and engineering process, often serving as the senior reviewer of calculations and structural models.
• Offer specialist training to junior engineering personnel.
• Prepare data visualizations (tables, charts, reports, sketches, calculations, cross‑sections, and 2D/3D illustrations) for the interpretation or presentation of complex data, findings, or analyses.
• Consider construction costs, government regulations, potential environmental hazards, and other factors in planning and risk analysis.
• Independently evaluate, select, and apply standard engineering techniques, procedures, and criteria using judgment for minor adaptations and modifications.
• Travel to job sites, participate in walkdowns, and provide construction or commissioning support.
• Coordinate with other disciplines, departments, and companies to ensure seamless technical compatibility and completion of engineering tasks safely, on‑time, within budget, and meeting all quality requirements.

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil/Structural Engineering with a focus in dynamic analysis.
• 15+ years of structural engineering experience in the power and industrial industry.
• Professional registration as a Professional Engineer (P.E.) – required.
• Professional registration as a Structural Engineer (S.E.) – preferred.
• Knowledge of AutoCAD, STAADPro, RISA, Enercalc or similar analysis software.
• Familiarity with 3D design and viewing software such as Navisworks.
• Experience with large power generation and industrial projects.
• Knowledge of ACI 351.3R (Foundations for Dynamic Equipment) and rotating machinery dynamics.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Strong Microsoft Office software skills.
• Must possess authorization to work in the United States for any employer without the need for sponsorship now or in the future.

In accordance with the Illinois Equal Pay Act, the expected salary range for this position is $158,000–$196,700 annually, adjusted based on experience, geographic location, and other job‑related factors as permitted by law. The role is eligible for Zachry’s Total Employee Rewards Program, which includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, and a 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan.