Insights Want to ignite your career potential?

Hello, my name is Sherif, and I work at AtkinsRéalis in London. As a principal fire engineer, I'm proud to "engineer a better future" every day here, specifically as our work relates to shaping a safer building environment, and subsequently, safer buildings lead to better futures.

Starting my career as a mechanical engineer

2008: I began my career in Auckland, New Zealand, which included fire protection system design. Two years later, I joined WSP, and focused on fire protection systems design and basic fire safety design. After five years in New Zealand, I pursued an opportunity in Melbourne, Australia, joining one of the country's leading fire safety and protection design consultancies.

Working my way up the career ladder

Before turning 30, I moved to the UK on a two-year youth mobility visa. So, I joined Cundall as a senior fire protection engineer. I met my future wife in the UK, and when my visa expired, we decided to move to New Zealand. Back in Auckland, I joined Beca, one of the best engineering companies in New Zealand, and managed the fire design team. After some time, we decided to get married and permanently relocate to the UK. I joined AECOM and made a slight career change, focusing more on fire safety design and less on fire protection system design.

Three and a half years later, I joined AtkinsRéalis as a principal fire engineer.

What attracted me to AtkinsRéalis?

Firstly, AtkinsRéalis has a well-established presence in the industry and is a globally recognized name. Secondly, the organization offered work flexibility that suited my family. I have two young children - a 9-5 London office-based role does not fit this lifestyle.

And, of course, the variety of projects is unlike anywhere I have seen before!

From rail, airports, defence and nuclear, to schools, residential, and hospital projects—you can take your career wherever you choose.

2023: Instantly recognized for my skills

I developed these skills during my 13+ years working in several countries. But, I wasn't recognized by previous employers - I felt they didn't really appreciate what I had to offer. AtkinsRéalis focuses on developing employees' strengths and helping them with their weaknesses but doesn't dwell on your weaknesses.

I progressed quickly at AtkinsRéalis and am now a team lead.

Why fire engineers should choose AtkinsRéalis ?

For fire engineers thinking about their next career move, I would say you need to apply immediately. I've worked in the best companies in the world, and none of them even come close to AtkinsRéalis regarding career development, work-life balance, and interesting projects.

My opportunities and innovations at AtkinsRéalis

As a technical subject matter expert, I've worked on multiple high-profile projects worldwide. In the UK, I've contributed to the Sizewell C nuclear power station construction buildings, Euston Station upgrades, multiple Surrey County Council assisted living facilities, Westminster public schools, and University of Surrey accommodation buildings. Internationally, I've been involved in the FCDO residential development in Abuja, Nigeria, and the Sydney Harbour Tunnel and Western Harbour Tunnel in Sydney, Australia.

And many more.

Making every day brilliant at AtkinsRéalis

We take great pride in the work we do here at AtkinsRéalis. #MakeItBrilliant is our commitment to excellence in every project and interaction. In addition to making the projects brilliant, we really value our internal personal relationships within the fire team and across other disciplines in offices around the country and overseas. Caring about each other and stepping in to help each other every day is how we make every day brilliant.

Find a role with us today.