Technical Lead Structural Engineer
Department
: Engineering
Location
: Melbourne
Reporting To
: Engineering Manager
Primary Objective
The Technical Lead Structural Engineer will lead and support structural engineering efforts across their renewable energy portfolio and HV substations. The ideal candidate will bring deep technical expertise and project leadership skills to support the design, development, and implementation of utility-scale solar, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and high-voltage (HV) infrastructure projects.
Duties and Responsibilities
* Lead the structural engineering design of renewable energy systems and HV power plants, including foundations, steel and concrete support structures, platforms, enclosures, and balance-of-plant structures.
* Develop and review design calculations, specifications, drawings, and construction documents in compliance with industry codes and Australian standards.
* Perform structural analysis for static and dynamic loads including wind and seismic forces.
* Provide technical oversight and mentorship to senior and junior engineers and designers.
* Conduct site inspections, structural assessments, and reviews during construction, if required, to ensure compliance with design and safety standards or provide effective solutions.
* Collaborate with civil, electrical, and geotechnical teams on integrated renewable energy and HV substation project delivery.
* Support the project delivery team during the construction phase.
* Engage with permitting authorities, third-party reviewers, and independent engineers to ensure project approvals and compliance.
* Lead value engineering and constructability reviews (internally and externally) to optimise designs and reduce costs without compromising quality or compliance.
* Participate in design reviews specific to renewable and HV power plant projects, evaluating progress, identifying potential issues, and implementing corrective actions to maintain design integrity.
* Identify and develop project design solutions and required outputs across multiple bids and active projects as per contractual requirements.
* Manage work in accordance with agreed deadlines.
* Provide engineering support to Design Managers delivering project design deliverables.
* Support the development and application of quality systems.
* Contribute to the development and enhancement of project programs, including activities/tasks, durations, logic, and sequencing.
* Develop detailed and accurate Scope of Work documents, including key design deliverables for D&C projects.
* Review and validate subconsultant outputs, including reports, calculations, and drawings.
Qualifications & Experience
* Bachelor's degree in Structural or Civil Engineering (Master's preferred).
* Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng), or actively pursuing accreditation.
* Minimum 12 years of structural engineering experience, with at least 7 years in renewable and HV power plant projects.
* Proven experience in structural design for solar PV (fixed-tilt or tracker), battery storage, or substations.
* Proficiency in structural design software and AutoCAD.
* Strong understanding of structural engineering codes and renewable energy standards.
* Excellent communication and project management skills.
* Ability to work independently and collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams and projects.
Desirable
* Prior experience in renewable energy (solar & BESS) and HV power plant design, implementation, or construction.
* Expertise in structural analysis and design software.
* Solid knowledge of geotechnical interpretation and soil-structure interaction.
* Familiarity with EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) environments.
Competencies
* Strong technical background.
* Effective team leadership and mentoring capabilities.
* Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
* Clear and confident communication and presentation skills.
* Detail-oriented with a strong commitment to quality.
* Adaptability to changing project requirements and industry trends.
* Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks concurrently.