Project Lead Designer at Vic Thompson Company – Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas

Location: Richland Hills, TX (On-site)

Reports to: Director of Design

The Project Lead Designer leads the development and delivery of baggage handling system (BHS) and checked baggage inspection system (CBIS) designs by turning project requirements and client objectives into clear, buildable, and well-organized design solutions. By blending design expertise and leadership, this role drives design accuracy, system reliability, project success, and strengthens VTC’s reputation for elegant baggage handling design.

Key Outcomes

• Design Excellence: Apply VTC methodology and design standards for BHS and CBIS projects to produce system designs in a 3D environment that support contract requirements, project objectives, and successful execution.
• Design Team Leadership: Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of designers by providing day-to-day guidance, supporting professional growth, and reinforcing accountability and ownership while ensuring design quality.
• Design Team Planning: Coordinate with the Director of Design to ensure design schedules, staffing, and priorities are aligned so projects remain appropriately resourced, on schedule, and positioned for successful execution.
• Project Coordination: Ensure design packages are coordinated with architects, engineers, and project stakeholders to reduce conflicts, improve constructability, and maintain alignment across disciplines.
• Quality Assurance: Ensure contractor submittals, design documents, and BIM deliverables are accurate, consistent, and aligned with VTC standards, project requirements, and best practices.
• Risk Management: Identify potential issues in design and construction phases, recommending proactive solutions to safeguard safety, quality, and schedule.
• Construction Support: Ensure RFIs, design clarifications, and field issues are resolved promptly and effectively so construction progresses with minimal disruption and clear design intent.
• Field Evaluation: Validate design solutions through site surveys, system evaluations, and testing to ensure designs reflect field conditions and support successful project delivery.
• Innovation: Contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes, workflows, and tools to advance VTC design capabilities.
• Communication & Reporting: Maintain clear communication with project managers, the Directo of Design, and project teams so progress, risks, and issues are identified early and addressed proactively.
• Client Partnership: Provide technical expertise and clear communication to clients and stakeholders, reinforcing VTC’s reputation as a trusted partner.

Success Profile

• Balances technical expertise with leadership and collaboration.
• Creates an environment of accountability, development, and high performance.
• Builds credibility with clients, contractors, and internal teams.
• Champions accuracy and quality in every design deliverable.
• Thrives in a dynamic environment managing multiple projects and deadlines.

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation with annual bonus potential.
• 100% company-paid medical coverage available on select plans for you and your family.
• 401(k) with 5% company match +5 annual contribution.
• Flexible schedules, hybrid/remote options, and generous paid time off.
• Paid holiday break between Christmas and New Year’s.
• Professional development and education reimbursement opportunities.

VTC is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

Qualification

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical or related) or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years of engineering design experience with baggage handling systems or similar systems.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred or willingness to obtain.
• Proficiency with 3D design software (Revit, AutoCAD); experience with Navisworks, ReCap, and Bluebeam Revu a plus.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to understand construction documents and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite; Microsoft Project preferred.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills; able to explain technical issues clearly.

Travel Requirements

• Travel required periodically (approximately 15-20%) for site verification, field evaluations, system testing, and project support activities. Travel frequency will vary based on project needs and phase of work.
• Must be able to receive airport security clearance for work within an airport environment.
• Physically able to traverse ladders and stairs in an airport environment.