Central Texas Aviation Lead - Austin, TX
Posted on October 24, 2025
HDR is a leading global architectural, engineering, and consulting firm that prides itself on being 100% employee-owned. By sharing ownership with its team members, HDR fosters a unique collaborative culture that values each individual's contributions and perspectives. This ownership model empowers employees to bring their authentic selves, innovative ideas, and a commitment to excellence to the work they do each day. With a diverse workforce that spans multiple disciplines including planning, engineering, architecture, environmental science, management consulting, and strategic communications, HDR is known for tackling complex infrastructure challenges with innovative solutions that address the needs of the communities they serve.
HDR's Transportation Business Group is a vital part of the company, specializing in developing resilient, sustainable, and safe transportation networks. This group plays a critical role in shaping how people and goods move efficiently across highways, bridges, transit systems, rail networks, airports, and maritime ports. Their work is deeply connected to enhancing economic vitality, public safety, and quality of life through thoughtful design and planning. As a part of this group, employees contribute to projects that range from modernizing aging infrastructure to pioneering new technologies that redefine the future of mobility.
The role of Central Texas Aviation Lead is a key leadership position within HDR's local market in Austin, Texas. This position is responsible for leading aviation-related projects and teams, working closely with other regional and national leaders to drive strategic growth and operational excellence. The Central Texas Aviation Lead will collaborate with clients, senior management, and technical staff to deliver high-quality solutions in airfield design and related aviation infrastructure services. The role involves client relationship management, staff training and development, strategic planning, and supporting recruitment efforts to build a strong, highly skilled team.
Ideal candidates for this role will have extensive experience in aviation engineering, especially related to airfield design and the specific regulatory environment governing airports. A Professional Engineer (PE) license in Texas is preferred, along with familiarity working with major regional airports such as Austin Bergstrom and San Antonio International Airports. Experience coordinating with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), particularly the Southwest Regional Office, and knowledge of Part 139 airport operating certifications and project scheduling techniques like the critical path method are also highly valued. This role demands strong communication and leadership skills, the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively, and a commitment to fostering an inclusive, employee-owner culture.
HDR offers a full-time, regular employment status for this position, based in Austin, Texas, within the Airfield Design Business Class of their Transportation sector. The company is committed to employment equity and is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer. Candidates of all diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply as HDR values inclusion and actively supports employee network groups that promote diverse perspectives and create a culture of belonging and mutual respect.
Joining HDR as the Central Texas Aviation Lead is not just a career opportunity; it is a chance to lead meaningful projects that develop smarter, safer, and more connected transportation infrastructure. By nurturing a collaborative team environment and engaging closely with clients and community stakeholders, this role offers the ability to leave a lasting impact on the region’s aviation landscape and contribute to the broader mission of enhancing mobility and quality of life through innovative engineering solutions.
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience
- A minimum of 10 years experience
- Professional registration, license or certification may be required based on role
- Strong communication and listening skills
- Ability to handle multiple assignments
- Good leadership and organizational skills
- An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of employee-owned culture is a must