Principal Structural Engineer

Lombard, IL Structural Engineering – Engineering /Full Time /Hybrid Valdes Architecture & Engineering is seeking an experienced Principal Structural Engineer to provide technical leadership on complex industrial, power, manufacturing, and process facility projects. This role is ideal for an accomplished structural engineering professional who enjoys solving challenging engineering problems, mentoring high-performing teams, and partnering directly with clients to deliver innovative, practical solutions.

As a Principal Structural Engineer, you'll play a key role in project execution, business development, technical excellence, and the continued growth of our Structural Engineering practice.

What You Will Do Technical Leadership Lead the structural engineering design of complex industrial, manufacturing, process, and power generation facilities

Independently develop structural designs from concept through construction

Design steel, reinforced concrete, masonry, and foundation systems for a wide variety of industrial applications

Design shallow and deep foundations, underground concrete vaults, tunnels, pipe supports, pipe racks, equipment foundations, access platforms, support towers, stair systems, ladders, and structural framing systems

Develop innovative structural solutions for complex field conditions and retrofit projects

Perform structural evaluations and condition assessments of existing facilities

Engineering & Analysis Perform advanced structural analysis using industry-standard software including RISA-3D and STAAD.Pro.

Interpret and apply domestic and international structural design codes and standards

Review structural calculations, construction documents, specifications, and design deliverables

Review reinforcement detailing, structural steel fabrication drawings, and vendor submittals

Project Leadership Serve as the Structural Discipline Lead on multidisciplinary engineering projects

Develop engineering budgets, schedules, staffing plans, and work-hour estimates

Manage project resources while maintaining quality, schedule, and budget expectations

Coordinate closely with civil, mechanical, electrical, piping, and process engineering teams

Client & Business Development Collaborate with clients during project planning, scope development, and proposal preparation

Build and maintain trusted client relationships through technical excellence and responsive communication

Support business development initiatives and strategic growth opportunities

Mentorship

Mentor and develop junior engineers and designers

Foster a collaborative, high-performance engineering culture focused on continuous improvement and technical excellence

Field Support Perform site visits to verify existing conditions and support construction activities

Assist with resolving field engineering challenges and constructability issues

Travel for short- and long-term field assignments as project needs require

What You'll Bring

Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or Architecture (Master's preferred)15+ years of structural engineering experience supporting industrial, manufacturing, process, or power generation projects

Professional Engineer (PE) or Structural Engineer (SE) license required

Demonstrated experience leading structural engineering projects and multidisciplinary teams

Advanced knowledge of structural steel, reinforced concrete, foundations, and industrial structures

Strong proficiency with RISA-3D, STAAD.Pro, AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office Experience preparing structural assessment and evaluation reports

Strong understanding of engineering codes, standards, and industry best practices

Excellent communication, leadership, and client relationship skills

Exceptional organizational and project management abilities

Authorization to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship

Why Valdes?

At Valdes Architecture & Engineering, you'll join a multidisciplinary team that designs the infrastructure powering industries and communities across the country.

Our engineers work on challenging projects in:

Industrial Manufacturing Power Generation & Energy Chemical Processing Oil & Gas Life Sciences & Pharmaceuticals Utilities Infrastructure  & Heavy Industrial Facilities We believe great engineering starts with great people. Our collaborative culture empowers employees to innovate, lead, mentor, and continue growing throughout their careers.

Why You Will Love This Role Lead technically challenging, high-impact structural…