Principal

Accountability

Responsible for the profitability and successful execution of healthcare projects including the quality of work performed, client service, business development, utilization of staff, reputation of the firm, contract management, billing and project profitability.

Essential Characteristics

• Maintain an Open-Door Policy
• Demonstrate the ability to lead, motivate and train designers in a mature, thoughtful, professional and pleasant manner.
• Able to aid in the development of technical skills of subordinates.
• Demonstrate empathy, patience, understanding and a genuine interest in others.

Essential Functions

• Work with the Partners and Senior Project Managers and Project Managers to assess targeted market potential, and select target clients that fulfill the marketing plan and budget.
• Actively support and lead business development efforts to expand DBR's healthcare portfolio in target regions.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with existing clients, architects, contractors, and healthcare system stakeholders.
• Identify, pursue, and secure new business opportunities through networking, proposals, and presentations.
• Recruit, mentor, and develop a high-performing MEP production team dedicated to the healthcare sector.
• Foster a collaborative and innovative team environment, promoting technical excellence and professional growth.
• Provide strategic direction and oversight to the team, ensuring alignment with the goals of the Healthcare Practice.
• Assist in providing oversight of client/proposal tracking activities; management and review of Requests For Proposals (RFPs), Statements of Qualifications (SOQs) and proposals.
• Works with all involved disciplines, prepares estimated labor requirements, schedules and other pertinent data; prepares fee proposals, conducting fee negotiations, preparing contractual agreement; and is sufficiently familiar with all agreements between firm and client to effectively manage the project in a professional and economic manner.
• Reviews the documents prior to timely submission of documents to the client for in-house and client milestone progress reviews to ensure all documents are in place and submitted to the client.
• Serve as the principal-in-charge or lead engineer on key healthcare projects on an as-needed basis.
• Ensure that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
• Provide expert oversight and guidance on all technical aspects of project design and execution.
• Maintain an in-depth knowledge of all relevant healthcare codes, standards, and regulations (e.g., TDSHS, FGI Guidelines, NFPA, ASHRAE 170).
• Ensure all project designs are compliant with local, state, and federal requirements specific to healthcare facilities.
• Leverage a reputable and verifiable history of successful project delivery within the healthcare MEP industry.
• Work closely with the Healthcare Practice Lead to align regional efforts with the firm's national strategy.
• Be available to support other DBR healthcare offices and projects as needed, contributing to the overall success of the practice.
• Ensure that the project, from original authorization through studies and reports, design, construction and post-construction, meets all requirements of the client and approving agencies and standards of quality of the firm; and that all services provided are accurate and appropriate and that charges against projects are reasonable.
• Maintain adequate records, memos of conversations, and similar documentation in the file.
• Take necessary administrative action in coordination with the Project Manager to assure proper invoicing for services performed.
• Point of contact for collection of past due accounts.
• Assists Project Manager in the Evaluation process of team members.
• May coordinate, manage and provide oversight of other project managers and teams on various healthcare projects due to project size and current workloads from major clients.
• Assist in the mentorship and training of project managers.
• Maintain neat and organized work area, which allows efficient access to information required by other team members.
• Continue learning process by attending seminars and continuing education opportunities.
• Perform additional assignments as requested/needed.

Education and Experience

• 15 years of progressive experience working on healthcare facility projects, including 4 years in a senior project management capacity for healthcare facilities, with a college degree in mechanical, electrical, or architectural engineering with an emphasis in HVAC, building electrical, or plumbing or
• A minimum of 20 years of progressive experience working on healthcare facility projects, including at least 6 years in a senior project management capacity, without a degree.

Licenses and Certifications

• Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering in the state of Texas or have the ability to obtain licensure, or equivalent relevant experience.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Expert-level knowledge of MEP systems design, construction, and operation in complex healthcare environments, including hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers and clinics.
• Demonstrated ability to successfully manage client relationships, lead business development initiatives, and secure new work.
• Proven experience in building and leading successful technical teams.
• Thorough understanding of healthcare-specific codes and standards is mandatory.
• A strong, positive reputation within the Houston healthcare design and construction community is highly desirable.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (e.g., Outlook, Word) or related software.
• Proficient in using office equipment (e.g., computer, copier, etc.).
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Dependable and punctual.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to maintain flexibility with workload and project schedules.
• Ability to effectively meet deadlines.
• Ability to interact well with clients and co-workers, in the field and the office.