Practice Leader- Entertainment Engineering

Join us as we Rise to the Challenge

At KCI, we’re building an enduring community that provides unparalleled value to our employee-owners. We make our mark designing and delivering our world-class solutions, so we invest deeply in supporting and developing our team. We reward integrity and commitment, and when we do well, you do well. Our employee’s have the freedom to innovate, unlimited growth, a voice that matters, a lifestyle that works, and skin in the game. Achievements are shared and celebrated. As a team, we are motivated to better ourselves, each other, and the world around us. 

THE COMPANY

KCI Technologies, Inc. is a 100% employee-owned engineering, consulting and construction firm serving clients throughout the United States. KCI is recognized as an industry leader, employing cutting-edge technologies, management practices and strategic growth initiatives. Employee ownership fosters an entrepreneurial spirit, encourages technical expertise, and shapes strategic planning.

KCI is currently ranked #56 on Engineering News-Record’s list of the Top 500 design firms in the nation.

KCI BENEFITS INFORMATION

We offer a competitive compensation package, family friendly benefits, a collaborative working environment, and the training, mentoring and resources you need to advance in your career.

We understand that you have choices, and we know that together we will make a great team!

KCI is committed to building a diverse and inclusive staff, and we encourage women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and individuals with disabilities to apply.

KCI Technologies, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.

Practice Leader – Entertainment Engineering

The Practice Leader is a highly organized and experienced individual who plays a pivotal role in leading and growing our Entertainment Engineering practice. This position combines technical expertise with business leadership, supporting the design and delivery of complex specialty structures, rigging systems, mechanized systems, and one-of-a-kind installations for the entertainment industry. The Practice Leader ensures excellence in project execution while driving financial performance, staff development, client relationships, and business growth.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Management

• Provide leadership and guidance to Project Managers, Senior Project Managers, and engineering staff working on entertainment-related projects.
• Support professional growth and technical development through mentorship, training, and project oversight.
• Manage day-to-day operations of the practice, including staffing, workload planning, and performance tracking.
• Collaborate with other Practice Leaders and service lines to share expertise, drive innovation, and deliver integrated project solutions.
• Ensure all work meets industry codes, safety standards, and project requirements unique to entertainment venues, productions, and specialty structures.

Recruitment, Retention, and Professional Development

• Lead recruiting efforts to attract top engineering and creative talent passionate about the entertainment industry.
• Foster a collaborative, innovative culture that retains staff and encourages career growth.
• Conduct performance reviews, mentor emerging leaders, and champion professional development initiatives tailored to entertainment engineering.

Financial Management

• Oversee project budgets, schedules, and profitability across the practice, ensuring successful delivery of high-profile entertainment projects.
• Negotiate contract terms, scopes, and fees with production companies, venue owners, contractors, and specialty fabricators.
• Monitor project performance, prepare utilization plans, and ensure effective financial reporting (WIP/AR, invoicing, cash flow).

Business Development and Marketing

• Drive business development efforts by strengthening relationships with production firms, architects, contractors, and creative partners.
• Identify and pursue new opportunities within live entertainment, themed attractions, events, and specialty installations.
• Lead proposal development, industry presentations, and client pitches that highlight the firm’s unique entertainment engineering expertise.
• Promote the practice at industry events, conferences, and associations (e.g., ESTA, TEA).

Client Relationship Management

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with entertainment industry clients, ensuring projects align with creative vision while meeting engineering standards.
• Gather client feedback and proactively identify opportunities for repeat work and expanded services.
• Contribute insights on entertainment market trends to inform strategic planning and business growth.

Compliance and Reporting

• Ensure compliance with company policies, quality management standards, and industry regulations for specialty engineering.
• Represent the firm in technical committees, industry groups, and community organizations within the entertainment sector.

Safety and Project Management

• Develop and implement project-specific safety plans, especially for rigging, mechanized systems, and installations in public or live environments.
• Deliver projects on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
• Monitor use of personnel, fabrication resources, and equipment to maximize efficiency and safety.

Education and/or Work Experience Requirements:
• Bachelor’s Degree in related field (AEC Industry) and minimum of 7 years of related professional experience, or 11 years of equivalent
professional experience.
• Progressive professional and increasing project management and organizational management experience.
• Proven experience in project management roles within the technical practice.
• Demonstrated leadership capability to build and lead teams of technical practitioners and/or project managers.
• Strong interpersonal as well as verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire teams.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively manage budgets, project margins, and cash flow.
• Experience in business development, with a focus on maximizing client relationships and identifying growth opportunities.
• Commitment to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence within the Practice.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make decisions.
• Adaptability and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in relevant software and tools use in the practice area.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements and industry standards related to the service line.

Certificates, licenses, and/or Registrations Required:
• Ability to complete the KCI PM Training and Contract Training within six months of start date. 

Certificates, licenses, and/or Registrations Preferred:
• Professional license or certification within the field of expertise preferred.

• Pre-employment drug screening is a condition of employment. Background and motor vehicle checks may be required based upon position.