Principal | Energy Lead

Buro Happold values an individual's flexible approaches to working patterns as an important part of how you work and achieve balance. We welcome applications from those who are seeking flexibility in their careers.

The Energy and Decarbonization team specializes in energy system policy, planning, design and delivery at the campus, city and regional scales. We work from visioning to concept strategy through to detailed design and delivery. The Energy team often works hand-in-hand with Buro Happold’s MEP engineers and sustainability consultants to deliver integrated, low carbon and resilient energy solutions at every scale.

Here at Buro Happold, expect the exceptional. From the projects you will work on to the clients we work with. From career-defining opportunities to an inclusive and diverse practice where we all contribute to a more equitable world. From our reputation to our relationships. Wherever your Buro Happold career takes you, it’ll be anything but ordinary.

We are looking for an exceptional Principal to join our Energy Team in the US, building on our strong track record such as New York City’s Roadmap to 80x50, Geo Micro Districts  work, and Oakland Energy Master Plan to support our clients in navigating the complexities of a rapidly transforming energy sector. As a Principal, you will lead and grow the Energy practice through strategic leadership, business development, and delivery of complex, multi‑disciplinary projects including:

• Energy and infrastructure master plans
• City, state, and regional climate action plans
• Techno‑economic feasibility studies
• Renewable energy and energy storage systems
• Thermal energy networks

The successful candidate will drive business growth, lead client relationships at the most senior levels, contribute to the Advisory Senior Leadership Team, and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our rapidly growing global team of over 50 dedicated energy professionals located around the world.

• Manage the strategic development of talent within the Energy team, with a focus on stretching and developing all team members, and act as an inspiring leader in the spirit of Buro Happold culture and competencies
• As Project Director, lead the design, analysis, and consultancy on large and complex energy projects for a wide variety of clients with the continued focus on delivering long‑term benefits and value
• Produce reports, presentations, models, and drawings to an excellent standard as requested by clients
• Actively manage the commercial performance of projects, including risks, resources, and profitability
• Represent Buro Happold to clients, architects, and collaborators at the most senior levels, providing strategic consultancy advice based on deep experience of client needs, energy systems discipline, and relevant sectors
• Lead overall sales activity through an established network of external clients, win new and repeat business in line with agreed work‑winning targets, and support the business development capability of the wider team
• Maintain an external profile by attending conferences and events, developing a presence via social media, and/or publishing thought leadership pieces – providing subject matter expertise to further develop current thinking in energy systems

• Advanced degree or research background in energy systems or similar
• Bachelor’s Degree level, or equivalent, in with emphasis on physical science or engineering background
• 15+ years’ experience working on large scale, multi‑disciplinary projects in urban development and/or energy infrastructure
• Professional Engineer (PE), Certified Energy Manager (CEM) certification, or similar
• Experience representing organizations at the most senior levels in client meetings and negotiations
• Demonstrated success collaborating across organizational boundaries to deliver integrated solutions
• Deep expertise in energy system design including geothermal systems, district heating and cooling, power generation, combined heat and power (CHP), and renewable energy systems
• Comprehensive understanding of the market, supply chain, revenue models, and costs associated with energy systems…