Structural Associate Director

Overview

As Associate Director in HDR’s Building Engineering Services Group, you lead the structures team to deliver high‑quality projects and profitable outcomes. You’ll oversee resource planning, design delivery, and client relations to support sustainable, innovative infrastructure. You work across disciplines to drive QA, safety, and performance, shaping the built environment at scale. This role offers a pathway to lead engineering excellence and influence project outcomes in a collaborative, inclusive culture.

Responsibilities

• Monitor monthly project fees and CAD needs, and forecast workload
• Lead concept to detailed design, on-site supervision, and timely completion
• Ensure technical compliance and quality through design reviews and checks
• Manage client relationships and set expectations to drive repeat business
• Develop new business opportunities and participate in company presentations
• Motivate and develop staff; set objectives and conduct personal development plans
• Control project progress, variations, and budgets; implement timesheets and admin systems
• Implement QA, Health and Safety, and CDM compliance; oversee ISO 9001 and 14001

Key requirements

• BEng, MSc, or equivalent in Civil/Structural Engineering
• Chartered Engineer or pursuing chartered status with ICE or IStructE
• 8+ years’ experience in a design consultancy
• Experience supervising contract staff or third‑party appointments (desirable)
• Strong communication and presentation skills
• Proficient in CAD production, project/design analysis software
• MS Word, Excel, Outlook & PowerPoint proficiency
• Ability to maintain a positive, professional attitude under pressure

• collaborative
• customer relationship management
• leadership and coaching
• CAD production
• computer modelling
• design analysis software

…