Operations Leader | Structural Engineer
Schaefer
Operations
Phoenix, AZ, USA
Posted on Mar 7, 2026
Description
This role isn’t just for a seasoned structural engineer. And it’s not just for someone who enjoys inspiring individuals to continuously improve + reach their goals. It’s the opportunity to lead cool structures, collaborate with passionate people, and lead a national firm’s southwest office.
As a Schaefer Operations Leader, you’ll set the tone for culture, performance + quality expectations while driving profitability, client satisfaction + team development. This role combines hands-on technical leadership with strategic oversight—maintaining Schaefer’s reputation for engineering quality, staff mentorship, and strong client relationships.
Key Responsibilities
At Schaefer, we believe leadership thrives with flexibility + connection. All team members have the option of working a hybrid schedule - in-person for greater collaboration + connection, and remotely for heads down + work/life balance. We value results over rigid schedules, and trust our leaders to balance strategic priorities with the autonomy to lead in the way that drives the most impact.
This role isn’t just for a seasoned structural engineer. And it’s not just for someone who enjoys inspiring individuals to continuously improve + reach their goals. It’s the opportunity to lead cool structures, collaborate with passionate people, and lead a national firm’s southwest office.
As a Schaefer Operations Leader, you’ll set the tone for culture, performance + quality expectations while driving profitability, client satisfaction + team development. This role combines hands-on technical leadership with strategic oversight—maintaining Schaefer’s reputation for engineering quality, staff mentorship, and strong client relationships.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead + mentor engineering staff to achieve utilization, profitability + quality expectations.
- Oversee project performance, risk management + quality assurance.
- Serve as a technical resource + licensed engineer on select projects.
- Manage staff development, performance reviews + workload distribution.
- Partner with business development teams to deliver excellent client experiences + support business growth.
- Actively participate in firm-wide initiatives, strategic planning + professional development.
- Represent Schaefer’s core values and serve as a visible leader of the Phoenix office.
- Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering (Master’s preferred).
- PE or SE license required.
- 12+ years of progressive engineering + leadership experience.
- Proven ability to manage teams, projects + client relationships.
- Strong technical, communication + organizational skills.
- Medical, dental and vision insurance, company paid life insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off
- Bonus eligibility
- Stock ownership
- Training + development budget
- Educational and licensure financial assistance
- Flexible work hours + remote work opportunities
- Project and management responsibilities at all experience levels
- New employee mentoring
- Design with the latest software and workstation
- Regular office social events
At Schaefer, we believe leadership thrives with flexibility + connection. All team members have the option of working a hybrid schedule - in-person for greater collaboration + connection, and remotely for heads down + work/life balance. We value results over rigid schedules, and trust our leaders to balance strategic priorities with the autonomy to lead in the way that drives the most impact.
