Principal Project Lead

Our client is a premier provider of custom mechanization for iconic structures and attractions that create unforgettable experiences. We partner with engineers, architects, and construction managers to mitigate risk and deliver functionally integrated, reliable structures. Our team of mechanical, structural, and electrical engineers deliver custom, project-specific solutions to complex and unprecedented engineering challenges. With expertise spanning industries such as Aerospace, Amusement and Entertainment, Stadiums and Ballparks, Telescope Observatories, and Custom Cranes, we bring engineering excellence to every project.

Job Summary:

The Principal Project Lead provides senior-level leadership for Uni-Systems Engineering’s most complex design-build projects. This role is accountable for the technical and programmatic success of assigned projects. Project leads play a pivotal role in the success of Uni’s projects and subsequently the success of the company as a whole.

• Lead the project’s technical decision-making path, ensuring design solutions meet performance, safety, and customer requirements.
• Drive engineering trade-offs, system-level integration, and risk resolution across all disciplines.
• Direct, mentor, and coordinate engineering staff on assigned projects
• Serve as the primary technical interface with customer stakeholders
• Work with with the Project Manager to monitor and drive schedules, budgets, procurement, and task tracking while retaining ultimate accountability.
• Anticipate technical risks and implement mitigation strategies.
• Elevate strategic or unresolved risks to the Project Executive and Vice President of Projects
• Ensure technical and project decisions correctly address safety, performance, cost, and schedule.
• Lead and organize technical design reviews with customers and internal teams.
• Build strong relationships with project-level customer contacts, vendors, and third-party stakeholders.
• Collaborate with shop, field, and fabrication vendor resources
• Align project execution with corporate standards and objectives under the guidance of Company Leadership.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of Uni-Systems’ project execution methods.
• Prepare and deliver structured project reports to Company Leadership, summarizing technical progress, risks, financials, and resource needs
• Support business development efforts by leading technical input for proposals on new work, developing scope documents, estimates, and risk assessments.

Job Requirements:

• Must be a U.S. citizen or a U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder).
• B.S. degree from an ABET-accredited institution in Mechanical, Structural, Electrical, or Controls Engineering
• 10–15 years of progressively responsible experience leading large, complex design-build projects.
• Demonstrated success driving technical direction and multidisciplinary decision-making.
• Strong track record of delivering projects meeting demanding technical, schedule, and financial goals.
• Knowledge of industry standards in aerospace ground support, amusement, kinetic architecture, or other safety-critical engineered systems.
• Familiarity with engineering and Project Management tools (SolidWorks, ANSYS, MS Project, Excel).

Core Attributes:

• Recognized technical authority with ability to lead large teams through high-risk decisions.
• Trusted mentor who elevates others’ performance and judgment.
• Results-driven, balancing innovation with disciplined execution.
• Positive influence on project team and company staff.
• Collaborative partner to Project Managers, customer stakeholders, and company leadership.