Lateral Engineering Solutions LLC: Innovative Engineering Support for Offshore and Industrial Systems

Lateral Engineering Solutions LLC (LES) was founded in 2021 to deliver practical, innovative engineering support for complex offshore and industrial systems—particularly in the Deepwater Oil & Gas sector. I started LES to offer a more flexible and technically focused alternative to traditional engineering firms. This decision was built on nearly two decades of experience in project execution, mechanical design, and technical assurance across SURF and Wells.

LES combines deep technical expertise with collaborative, hands-on problem-solving. We help clients overcome high-impact, high-risk challenges. Whether you’re designing critical subsea hardware or troubleshooting a manufacturing issue, our focus is on delivering real value—quickly and with purpose.

A Flexible, Results-Driven Approach

Our principles are rooted in performance-focused consulting. This enables us to align closely with your project goals. LES integrates seamlessly with your team, providing the benefits of in-house technical support without the administrative overhead of onboarding new personnel.

Whether your goal is to reduce scope and cost, accelerate design readiness, or resolve specific technical challenges, LES offers engineering support that’s transparent, responsive, and grounded in real-world project experience.

Services Tailored to Your Needs

At LES, we understand that each project is unique. Therefore, we tailor our engineering services to fit your specific requirements. Our flexible approach allows us to adapt quickly to the evolving landscape of your projects. We ensure you have the right support at the right time, making your challenges our priority.

Collaboration Without Bias

We’re not tied to any specific equipment line, technology, or manufacturer. Instead, LES builds trusted relationships across a network of suppliers, fabricators, and service providers. This broad perspective enables us to recommend the best solution for your specific needs. Our unbiased approach ensures you receive the most effective support available.

Building Trust Through Transparency

Trust is vital in any engineering partnership. At LES, we prioritize transparency in all our dealings. By keeping lines of communication open and honest, we foster strong working relationships with our clients. This trust allows us to work together more effectively, ensuring successful project outcomes.

Services Across the Full Design Lifecycle

LES supports clients through all phases of mechanical design. We handle everything from concept and modeling to structural analysis, documentation, fabrication review, and field support. Our specialization lies in the design and validation of robust, reliable systems built for extreme loads, harsh environments, and mission-critical operations.

Our Expertise in Subsea Systems

We have extensive experience in designing subsea wellhead and riser systems. These systems require meticulous planning and execution to ensure safety and efficiency. Our team's background allows us to navigate the complexities of underwater environments effectively.

We also focus on completions and intervention tooling, fatigue-sensitive components, and equipment requiring field evaluation or repair disposition. You can trust LES to deliver exceptional solutions that meet the highest industry standards.

Who Is Les E. Griffin, P.E.?

I’m a Texas-licensed Mechanical Engineer with nearly 20 years of experience supporting offshore projects across the Gulf of Mexico and beyond. I’ve held lead technical roles with both an equipment OEM and a major operator. My work has involved top tension risers, wellhead systems, tendons, installation tooling, and subsea production hardware.

Highlights from my career include leading critical aspects of the Olympus TLP / Mars B development. In this role, I helped design and deliver systems to withstand post-Katrina load conditions and meet unprecedented fatigue requirements. Early in my career, I gained valuable hands-on experience at an OEM, focusing on design work through direct engagement with on-site manufacturing and full-scale testing.

Additionally, I’ve contributed to the successful design, fabrication, and offshore delivery of major riser and tendon systems. I also led technical assurance efforts for Shell’s Gulf of Mexico riser assets. That experience—ranging from design to fabrication, testing, and field execution—now informs everything we do at LES.

A Workplace That Reflects Real-World Needs

LES reflects more than just my technical background—it embodies my personal priorities. First and foremost, I’ve built LES in a way that allows me to be fully present for my son. Being there for him—especially when he’s needed me most—has been one of the greatest privileges of my career.

Equally important, LES gives me the opportunity to apply my experience and unique perspectives to help clients solve meaningful, challenging problems. Moreover, I’ve created a remote-friendly, ergonomic workspace that supports my long-term health and well-being—values I carry forward in how I operate and collaborate with others.

Why I Started LES

Founding LES was a natural evolution for me. It blended deep technical expertise, field experience, and a strong belief in collaborative problem-solving. My goal is to help clients obtain the engineering clarity they need when they need it—without unnecessary complexity.

If you're facing a complex challenge and need a hands-on engineering partner to help move things forward, I’d be delighted to talk.

Interested in working together?

Let’s connect and explore how LES can support your next project.

In Conclusion: Your Future Partner in Engineering

In summary, Lateral Engineering Solutions LLC is here to provide you with innovative, tailored engineering solutions. With our extensive experience, commitment to effective collaboration, and a focus on real-world applications, we are confident we can meet your needs. We invite you to reach out to us today.

Written by Les E. Griffin, P.E. - Principal Engineer at LES.