Principal Designer

Principal Designer – Responsibilities

Design Leadership & Execution

Serve as the principal designer for the development of mechanical drawings and models using 2D and 3D design tools

Design proprietary and non-proprietary equipment for FCC units, pressure vessels, and process systems in both refining and petrochemical applications

Lead complex, large‑scale design projects from concept through completion while meeting budget and schedule requirements

Reviews drawings from other drafters to ensure alignment with scoping and corporate drafting standards

Assists with the preparation of standard engineering documents and calculations.

Standards & Process Improvement

Develop, implement, and maintain design standards, policies, and procedures

Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, reduce errors, and optimize manhours

Automate and streamline workflows to improve overall team productivity

Technical Leadership & Mentorship

Provide technical guidance, training, and mentorship to design team members

Promote best practices in modeling, documentation, and design execution

Support performance improvement and skill development across the team

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

Collaborate closely with engineering, manufacturing, and project management teams to establish essential functions and deadlines necessary to successfully execute projects

Engage with project stakeholders to understand requirements, provide updates, and ensure expectations are met

Deliver clear technical presentations and communicate complex design concepts effectively

Project Engagement

Participate in and lead project reviews, design approvals, and presentations

Conduct site visits to verify installation, performance, and compliance of equipment

Fabrication & Field Support

Ensure designs align with fabrication capabilities and operational requirements

Oversee inspection activities, coordinating with third‑party inspectors and inspection agencies to ensure compliance with standards

Support troubleshooting and resolution of field issues

Perform equipment inspections at refineries or during pre‑turnaround assembly. Monitor and ensure clear rework/repair instructions are implemented to meet customer and compliance requirements, if needed

Innovation & R&D

Lead and contribute to research and development initiatives

Support innovation in areas such as process improvement, sustainability, and advanced technologies

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in engineering, design, or related technical field (or equivalent experience)

15+ years of experience in mechanical design, with a strong focus on FCC unit, pressure vessels, or process equipment

Proven experience in a senior or principal‑level design role

Preferred Qualifications

Experience designing critical static equipment such as cyclones for refining, petrochemical, or energy industries

Familiarity with carbon capture, plastics recycling, or ethylene unit design

Hands‑on experience with site inspections and fabrication oversight

Technical Skills

Advanced proficiency in:

AutoDesk AutoCAD and Inventor

SolidWorks

Microsoft Office Suite

Strong understanding of mechanical systems, fabrication processes, and industrial equipment design

Licensing / Certifications (Preferred)

API 936 – Refractory Inspector

API 510 – Pressure Vessel Inspector

ASME Level 2 Inspector

Level 2 qualifications in NDE, RT, PT, UT

IWWE (International Welding Engineer)

Travel Requirements
Might require some travel to site for inspection on an as‑needed basis ( ADA Requirements
Positions in this function typically require typing, sitting, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing and repetitive motions.

Concentrated mental and/ or visual attention. The work involves performing complex tasks to very close accuracy and quality specifications, or a high degree of hand and eye coordination for sustained periods.

The job is typically performed under comfortable working conditions; any disagreeable elements are generally absent during normal performance of job.

Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.

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