Principal Scientist​/Engineer

Principal Scientist/Engineer

Location: Round Rock, Texas (Hybrid Work Option)

Compensation: $150,000 - $190,000 annually (negotiable based on experience)

The Principal Engineer/Scientist is a senior technical leader and recognized subject matter expert who plays a critical, outward‑facing role in advancing Spheros’ technical excellence, market reputation, and business growth. This role is reserved for individuals whose depth of expertise, professional credibility, and client presence position them as trusted advisors both internally and externally. The Engineer/Scientist serves as a reputation builder for Spheros Environmental through visibility in client engagements, industry forums, and professional networks, and is actively involved in business development through technical leadership, strategic pursuit support, and cross‑disciplinary collaboration.

The role does not include direct people‑management responsibilities; however, Principal Engineers/Scientists mentor emerging technical leaders and delegate work strategically to mid‑level staff to develop next‑generation experts. Success in this role is measured by technical excellence, client influence, revenue contribution, thought leadership, and external visibility through publications, presentations, and professional engagement.

Technical Leadership and Subject Matter Expertise

• Serve as a leading authority in one or more core technical disciplines, providing expert guidance on complex, high‑profile projects.
• Lead the development and application of advanced technical approaches, methodologies, and best practices.
• Provide technical oversight and peer review on deliverables, proposals, and strategic initiatives.
• Act as an internal technical resource across disciplines, regions, and divisions, supporting integrated, multi‑disciplinary solutions.
• Subject matter expert on scientific principles. Demonstrate advanced understanding in applicable fields and apply systems thinking across a broad set of topics.
• Recognized as an SME internally and externally for achievements and technical expertise. Contribute to peer‑reviewed publications.
• Lead technical analysis of other scientists where appropriate.
• Responsible for data reporting and visualization/mapping, writing plans/reports, producing graphics and regulatory reporting.
• Review work products and procedures for quality assurance and control. Manage maps and graphics development. Report conclusions.
• Takes complete responsibility for the quality of work performed by self and others, including deliverables in the area of expertise.
• Proficient in communicating technical concepts, both verbally and in written form. Communicate clearly and articulately with clients, experts, and management. Primary or senior author for deliverables. Recognize red flags and work with colleagues to resolve them.
• Actively seek the latest technologies related to scientific and engineering principles and practices. Provide innovative and unique ideas; develop new approaches, tools, or techniques.
• Represent the firm externally through conference presentations, technical papers, webinars, panel discussions, and professional committees.
• Publish articles, white papers, or blog posts that reinforce the firm’s expertise and market leadership.
• Build and maintain a strong professional network within the industry.
• Contribute to the firm’s external communications and brand strategy through visible technical leadership.

Client Engagement and Advisory Role

• Act as a trusted technical advisor to key clients, regulators, and stakeholders.
• Participate in high‑level client meetings, project strategy discussions, and critical technical negotiations.
• Strengthen long‑term client relationships through credibility, insight, and thought leadership.
• Support pursuit teams by shaping technical narratives and value propositions.

Business Development

• Leverage professional networks to engage locally with the industry on thought leadership such as participating in peer review and publishing a peer review.
• Lead the development process for complex proposals and assist other Principal Engineers/Scientists with the development of long‑term marketing strategies.
• Be…