I am now working as an engineer in the Twin Cities, but have plans of moving to Austin, TX with my wife to house-hack and work in the more plentiful tech market over there. 

Next time I'll start with the engineer.  

You will probably want to engage an engineer to provide an engineered plan for the lots and attorney who frequently presents variance cases.

No, DIY is not the same as a virtual site visit or a study done by engineers @Dana YobstAs @V.G Jason said, you could very likely cost yourself more in time and money.

You may have to search a bit for the right contractor or engineer - sometimes I see one solution dominating in an area - "that is how we always do it" 

Since you're familar with commerical development, most enginering firms, and attorneys work on both residential and commerical. 

I’m a professional civil engineer with years of experience in construction and entrepreneurship.

Whether that is most contractors, hiring an engineer, or getting self-educated.

Quote from @Jeremy Dugan: I am a US Air Force and Massachusetts Air National Guard veteran with 20-years of experience as a military Civil Engineer.

Work with your attorney for what is needed to insure all subcontractors get paid by the General Contractor.Make sure the insurance covers Construction period and also materials.Talk with your Commerical insurance agent and they should address the above questions with you.If this is an older facility make sure your engineering firm has covered Fire Suppression systems and any Storm pond or drainage systems.