President

At Hirani Engineering’s forefront stands Mr. Hirani, boasting an extensive 38-year tenure in engineering. His expertise spans across structural engineering, safety protocols, and adept construction management. He holds a remarkable track record of spearheading pivotal capital enhancement ventures for various prestigious entities including Federal agencies, NY State, NY City, and Long Island municipalities. His project portfolio encompasses diverse realms such as building renovations, bridge restoration, highway advancements, and comprehensive site engineering. Moreover, Mr. Hirani excels in the domain of Design/Build methodologies and consistently champions Quality Assurance and Quality Control measures within Hirani Engineering projects.

Jay Gewirtzman, PE

Executive Vice President

Bringing a wealth of experience, Jay became a part of Hirani in 2015, initially joining as the Vice President of the Construction Inspection and Management Division. Before joining our team, Jay dedicated 35 years to a major NYC firm, where he played a pivotal role in the growth and oversight of their extensive 600-person New York City office. During his tenure there, Jay excelled in driving profitability, overseeing key hires, nurturing client relationships, spearheading business development, and managing the day-to-day office operations. Recognizing his outstanding contributions, Jay earned a well-deserved promotion to the role of Executive Vice President at Hirani. In this capacity, he has been instrumental in refining operational strategies and played a pivotal role in the development of standardized managerial procedures for both Hirani Engineering and Land Surveying.”

Neil Hirani

Chief Operating Officer

Neil is a dynamic entrepreneur and business man. As the son of a professional engineer and business owner, Mr. Hirani began to learn about business, investments, construction, and engineering at a young age. As he became more involved, his interests were sparked by technology-based initiatives including instrumentation, software integration, BIM, Lidar scanning, Photogrammetry, & Ground Penetrating Radar. As sales began to take off, Mr. Hirani began his own division associated with emerging technologies in the industry and is currently an integral part of the company’s growth. While Mr. Hirani focuses to take lead on these technology-based projects, he proved that he could implement cost-effective measures within the core departments of the firm, including Surveying, CMCI, Engineering, FISP, Technology, Special Inspections and Material Testing, and Administration to increase profitability. Mr. Hirani truly believes one of the keys to success is the ability to partner the wisdom and knowledge of conventional methods used in the past with the cutting-edge technology available today.

OUR Directors

Zenith Shah, CCM, PMP, DBIA

Vice President of CI/CM

Zenith brings an extensive wealth of expertise in Construction Management, Scheduling, and Project Controls, honed during his tenure at leading multinational construction firms. With a robust 15-year background in the industry, Zenith has dedicated his efforts to proficiently
managing the delivery of intricate infrastructure and transportation projects.

Kenneth Bobetsky

Director of Business Development

With over 40 years of experience in the transportation industry, Kenneth has led major infrastructure initiatives including the PATH Extension, Gateway – Hudson River Tunnel, Goethals Bridge Replacement, and JFK AirTrain. He has held senior leadership roles at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, AECOM, and Halcrow, bringing expertise in project and construction management, risk mitigation, and stakeholder coordination. A licensed Professional Engineer in New York and New Jersey, Kenneth is recognized for building strategic partnerships
and delivering innovative solutions.

Ian D. St. Hilaire PLS

Sr. Director of Surveying

Ian St. Hilaire has over 30 years of experience in the land survey industry, Ian brings extensive expertise in laser scanning, BIM, advanced project delivery, and boundary retracement. A licensed New York Professional Land Surveyor, he has successfully led teams and managed clients across regional and national projects, with in-depth knowledge of New York agencies and regulatory requirements. Ian holds an Associate’s degree in Building and Construction Technology from Vermont Technical College and is highly proficient in AutoCAD, MicroStation, Revit, Civil 3D, Leica Infinity, and Leica Cyclone. He is also an active member of the New York State Association of Professional Land Surveyors and the National Society of Professional Surveyors.

Jason Johnson, LS

Director of Land Surveying

Jason ventured into Land Surveying during the peak of COVID in 2020, obtaining his licensure during this challenging time. He has further expanded his skill set by acquiring his Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Residing in New Fairfield, Connecticut, alongside his wife and two children, Jason’s passion for surveying sprouted from his deep-rooted love for the outdoors and engaging in activities like camping, hiking, and biking.

Lionel ”LEE” Green

Director of Construction Survey

Lionel “Lee” Green is a Licensed New York Professional Land Surveyor and FAA Part 107–certified sUAS pilot, Lee brings more than 25 years of experience in surveying, construction support, 3D modeling, and advanced geomatics technologies. He specializes in integrating GNSS, laser scanning, UAV mapping, 3D machine control, and digital terrain modeling to enhance field-to-finish workflows. Lee has provided survey leadership on major infrastructure and design-build projects, including the Kew Gardens Interchange, RFK/Harlem River Drive, Tappan Zee Bridge, Utica-Rome Expressway, and multiple renewable energy
developments, while also delivering technical training for agencies such as NYSDOT, VTrans, MTA, and USACE. His expertise significantly strengthens Hirani’s construction survey capabilities.

Jaime Benavides

Director of Geotechnical, Environmental, and Monitoring (G.E.M.)

Jaime is well known for his expertise and hands-on approach that leads him to be able to ensure projects are completed on time, and efficiently, and does not compromise on quality. His focus has been on technology and being able to adapt to today’s market needs and as Director
of G.E.M., he has been able to implement new technologies and methods for performing Vibration Monitoring, Settlement Monitoring, Crack, Monitoring, Ground Water Monitoring, Tilt Monitoring, Ground Penetrating Radar, CCTV Inspections, Dust / Air Monitoring and Sampling, Weather Monitoring, and Geotechnical Testing and Sampling.

Nirab Manandhar, PE

Director of Engineering

With more than a decade of experience in structural engineering, Nirab brings exceptional technical depth, proven leadership, and a collaborative approach that strengthens Hirani’s engineering practice. His background includes leading complex structural analysis and design
efforts, overseeing renovations and redevelopments, and guiding projects from early feasibility studies through construction. Nirab is widely respected for his ability to mentor and develop engineering teams while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety, and code compliance. His strategic mindset and commitment to innovative, client-focused solutions align seamlessly with Hirani’s mission and long-term vision. Hirani looks forward to the leadership, expertise, and forward-thinking perspective.

Rhytham Soni

Deputy Director of Material Testing and Special Inspection (MTSI)

With over 12 years of experience in the construction industry, including more than six years dedicated to structural engineering and special inspections in New York City, Rhytham brings exceptional expertise and leadership to our team. As a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in New Jersey, with licensure pending in New York, and a Certified Construction Manager (CCM), he exemplifies the highest standards of professional excellence. His credentials include a Master of Special Inspection certification, along with multiple ICC and OSHA certifications,
reflecting his technical acumen and commitment to quality and safety in construction. Rhytham’s proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, MS Project, and other advanced construction software further enhances his ability to deliver innovative solutions to complex projects.