Job Description

BNP Associates, Inc., a global leader in air transportation consulting and engineering, has an immediate need for an experienced senior designer to join our Apron Systems team. This position can be in any of our U.S. offices, including Denver, Chicago, Dallas, Tampa, and Fairfield. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to BNP’s continued growth and innovation while working with top professionals in the field.

Company Overview

Founded in 1971, BNP Associates, Inc. is a full-service consulting and engineering firm specializing in airport and warehousing infrastructure projects worldwide. Over its 54+ years of operation, BNP has completed thousands of projects, from small terminal projects to the world’s largest mechanized material handling systems.

We are recognized for our leadership in baggage handling systems, checked baggage security screening, aircraft apron systems, air cargo terminals, and construction administration. Our clients include airlines, airports, government agencies, and transportation infrastructure specialists worldwide. BNP serves as a key design partner for complex projects that drive the future of air transportation and logistics.

BNP employs over 160 professionals across twelve offices worldwide, including New Zealand, China, the United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Singapore. This position offers an opportunity to contribute to our growth and innovation and work with some of the leading professionals in the field.

Job Description

We are seeking a detail-oriented Senior Designer to join our team of airport system consultants. This role supports a wide range of project phases, including master planning, concept and schematic design, design documentation, cost estimating, project management, and on-site installation and commissioning. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential.

The senior designer collaborates with project managers and project designers to develop equipment specifications and design multiple airfield layout options that meet client requirements. These include systems for aircraft parking, taxiing, and maneuvering, as well as apron equipment such as Passenger Boarding Bridges (PBBs), 400 Hz Ground Power Units (GPUs), Pre-Conditioned Air Units (PCAs), Advanced Visual Docking Guidance Systems (AVDGS), E-GSE Posi-Chargers, and Exterior Fixed Walkways.

This role involves close coordination with internal team members—designers, engineers, directors, and executives—to deliver key project outputs such as specifications, reports, drawing packages, and client submittals. Under the guidance of senior project managers and directors, the senior designer will also help shape project strategies and support team development.

Once a concept is approved by the client, the Senior Designer is responsible for developing detailed model data sets. This includes stand servicing drawings, BIM models, aircraft maneuvering plans, jet blast zones, docking summaries, equipment schedules, sketches, and detail sheets. They also coordinate drafting tasks with the Designer group and provide ongoing feedback throughout the project lifecycle.

Job Responsibilities

As a senior designer, you will play a critical role in overseeing projects from start to finish, ensuring successful execution and client satisfaction. The position’s key responsibilities include:

• Coordinate with Project Managers to develop FAA/ICAO/IATA/User Airline-compliant gate layouts and apron system drawings using CAD/AviPlan and generic BIM models, along with related apron systems equipment specifications.
• Design concepts and develop them through the For-Bid stage to meet client requirements.
• Produce models, schedules, and support materials related to apron systems equipment.
• Direct drafting and design efforts with the Design group to prepare detailed drawing packages.
• Mentor Designers, providing ongoing feedback to ensure design objectives are met.
• Serve as the primary liaison and Subject Matter Expert (SME) for clients and contractors.
• Collaborate with designers, engineers, directors, and executives to allocate resources and develop required project documentation.
• Work with other project managers to identify optimal solutions for client needs.
• Oversee discipline-specific elements, including apron systems equipment and gate layouts.
• Assist with field activities such as site surveys, inspections, installations, and equipment testing.
• Assist with punch list resolution and support system start-up efforts.
• Monitor project budgets and schedules to ensure timely, cost-effective completion.
• Review and respond to Requests for Information (RFIs).
• Conduct and analyze system simulations for performance evaluation.
• Provide technical review of reports, specifications, and drawing packages.
• Mentor project engineers and designers to support professional development.

Qualifications

The following outlines the preferred qualifications for this position. However, many of our successful engineers come from varied backgrounds, so we encourage you to apply even if you don't meet every listed criterion:

• Minimum five (5) years of project design experience, preferably in Apron Systems Equipment
• Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD, as well as Aviplan and/or PathPlanner, is required
• Proficiency in additional design software, such as Revit and BIM tools is preferred
• Familiarity with FAA circulars related to passenger boarding bridges and airfield design
• Ability to read, interpret, and develop efficient architectural, civil, and logistics designs
• Strong data acquisition and compilation skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong client relationship and communication abilities
• Proven leadership and team-building experience with both small and large design teams
• Experience managing staff assignments, project logistics, timelines, and budgets
• Skilled in handling multiple responsibilities with efficiency and focus
• Experience conducting field surveys, inspections, and equipment testing
• Engineering background preferred in mechanical, industrial, or controls engineering. Civil and electrical engineers, or those with other relevant experience, are also encouraged to apply
• Experience with large-scale airport projects and spatial coordination is a strong asset
• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Architectural Engineering, or a related field; equivalent field experience will be considered
• CAD certification preferred but not required
• PMP, EIT, or PE certifications are preferred but not required

Working Conditions

• This full-time position is based in any of our U.S. offices, including Denver, Chicago, Dallas, Tampa, and Fairfield. The role requires occasional travel to airports within the U.S. for site-based work and travel to architectural and engineering partners’ offices.
• The successful candidate must pass criminal background checks and screening to obtain airport security badges.
• This position may require background checks and drug screening as part of project participation.
• Standard 40-hour work week with occasional additional time required to meet deadlines.

Salary

• $98,000 - $140,000 annually, commensurate with experience, skills, and qualifications.

Benefits

We are an equal opportunity employer. BNP offers an excellent benefits package and competitive salaries, along with professional advancement opportunities. Our benefits include the following:

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• 401(K)
• Paid holidays and vacation/personal time
• Annual Salary Reviews.
• Annual Bonus Consideration.
• Compliance with all US mandatory employer contributions
• Advancement opportunities, we believe in investing in those who want to invest in us

As an equal opportunity employer, we’re committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful workplace where everyone feels valued. We comply with all local laws, health and safety guidelines, and client requirements. If you need any accommodations during the hiring process or on the job, just let us know — we’re here to help.

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