Principal Project Lead

Company: Search Leaders
Location: Minneapolis
Posted on: April 1, 2026

Job Description:

Position Responsibilities: This senior leadership role oversees the technical and programmatic direction of major design-build engineering projects. The role ensures that all deliverables meet safety, performance, and customer expectations while aligning with organizational objectives. Guide technical decisions and project direction to meet defined engineering goals. Manage cross-disciplinary integration and resolution of complex technical risks. Provide mentorship and leadership to engineering staff across active projects. Act as the lead technical contact for client stakeholders. Work closely with the Project Manager to maintain oversight of timelines, budgets, procurement activities, and task execution. Identify and mitigate potential project risks proactively. Escalate critical issues and unresolved risks to executive leadership when necessary. Ensure decisions account for safety, performance, budget, and schedule priorities. Facilitate internal and external design reviews throughout project milestones. Foster productive relationships with vendors, client representatives, and third-party collaborators. Coordinate effectively with shop, field, and fabrication partners. Align project execution with internal standards and leadership guidance. Contribute to ongoing process improvements within the organization. Provide regular project updates to executive leadership detailing progress, resource needs, risks, and financial performance. Support proposal development for new business, including technical input, scope creation, estimating, and risk identification. Position requirements: Must be a U.S. citizen or a current Green Card holder. Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Structural, Electrical, or Controls Engineering from an ABET-accredited institution. 10 to 15 years of experience leading complex, large-scale design-build projects. Proven ability to direct technical strategy and make cross-functional decisions. Demonstrated history of meeting demanding technical, scheduling, and financial objectives. Familiarity with safety-critical systems in industries such as aerospace, kinetic architecture, and themed entertainment. Proficiency with engineering and project tools including SolidWorks, ANSYS, MS Project, and Excel. Recognized as a subject matter expert with a capacity to lead high-stakes decisions. Strong mentoring skills and ability to elevate team performance. Highly results-driven with a balance of creativity and operational discipline. Collaborative approach with internal teams and client stakeholders. Reasons to Apply: Competitive salary plus a comprehensive benefits package. Health coverage, retirement plans, and other company-sponsored perks. Generous paid time off, including holidays, to support work-life balance. Flexible schedules and work life balance. Strong focus on employee development with on-the-job training and career growth. A positive company culture that values diversity and collaboration.

Keywords: Search Leaders, Minneapolis , Principal Project Lead, Engineering , Minneapolis, Minnesota