Structural Engineering Group Leader

Structural Engineer Group Leader - Build more than structures. Build a legacy.

3P Careers is conducting a confidential search on behalf of a highly respected architecture and design firm in the Bethesda, Maryland area.

For years, our client has partnered with outside structural engineering consultants. With an impressive backlog of custom residential, luxury homes, multifamily, and commercial projects already under contract, the firm has made the strategic decision to establish an in-house structural engineering practice. This is a rare opportunity for an experienced structural engineer who wants to help shape something from the ground up while remaining deeply involved in technical design.

If you've ever wanted to combine technical engineering with long-term leadership and practice development, this role deserves a closer look.

What You'll Do

• Lead structural design for a diverse portfolio of residential, multifamily, and commercial buildings.
• Work closely with architects and designers from the earliest stages of project development to deliver integrated solutions. In-house structural teams often influence projects earlier in the design process, allowing for greater collaboration and efficiency.
• Develop structural standards, workflows, and best practices as the firm's internal structural capability continues to grow.
• Perform structural analysis, calculations, detailing, and construction support while maintaining a hands-on technical role.
• Collaborate directly with ownership on the long-term vision for the structural practice.

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

• Opportunity to establish and lead a new structural engineering practice within an established architecture firm.
• Strong backlog of exciting projects already secured.
• Diverse project portfolio spanning custom homes, high-end residential, multifamily, and commercial work.
• Significant autonomy with direct access to firm leadership.
• Clear path toward becoming the Structural Practice Leader, with potential for equity participation and ownership for the right individual.
• Ability to continue practicing engineering while growing a team, rather than moving immediately into a purely management-focused role.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.
• Experience designing building structures using wood, steel, concrete, masonry, and other common structural systems.
• Strong understanding of structural analysis, detailing, and construction documentation.
• Someone who enjoys solving technical challenges while mentoring others and helping build a growing practice.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate closely with architects, owners, and consultants.

Interested?

Even if you're not actively looking for a new position, this is one of those opportunities that may be worth a conversation. If you've been thinking about where you'd like your career to be over the next three to five years, this role offers the chance to help build something meaningful while positioning yourself for long-term leadership.

If this sounds intriguing, I'd love to tell you more.

3P Careers specializes in placing engineers, architects, interior designers, and related professionals. Our goal is to connect talented individuals with organizations that offer meaningful career growth, strong leadership, and a collaborative work environment where people can thrive both personally and professionally.