Lead Architect

Join us in engineering a better future for our planet and its people.

About AtkinsRéalis 

AtkinsRéalis  business is one of the largest multidisciplinary, multi sector engineering design consultancies.

As one of the world’s most respected design, engineering and project management consultancies with a leading track record in the defence sector, Atkins Réalis  are ideally placed to respond to this market. We have a broad establishment and proud, 50 year history throughout the Middle East region.

We provide a full range of design, engineering and project management services for buildings, transportation and other infrastructure programmes.

Atkins Réalis  in the Middle East now employs around 2,000 staff serving Gulf clients across all market sectors from offices in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Doha, Dubai, Jeddah, Kuwait City, Manama, Muscat, Riyadh, and Sharjah.

Job Summary

Responsible for the site supervision of Contractor’s architectural work. Duties include inspection of the Contractors works, Review and commenting on submittals, forwarding submittals to the concerned designer for response, obtaining samples and quotations when required, preparing reports and recommendations and coordination of all architectural works with other disciplines.

We are seeking a Lead Architect (Site Operations)

Requirements

Technical Competencies

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture. Professional licence or certification is desirable.
• Prior UAE experience is mandatory as part of Site and PMC team.
• Minimum of 20 years of progressive experience in architectural design and construction, with a focus on complex, high-profile projects.
• Extensive experience in leading architectural teams and managing multiple projects concurrently.
• Strong proficiency in material submittal review, shop drawing review, and construction administration.
• In-depth knowledge of UAE building codes, regulations, permitting processes, and industry best practices.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with clients, consultants, and contractors.
• Proven track record of delivering architectural projects on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
• Strong leadership qualities, strategic thinking, and a collaborative mindset.

Behavioural Competencies

• Good interpersonal skills, telephone skills and customer focus.
• Creative, energetic and self-motivated.
• Will work as a member of a multi cultural team and be expected to contribute to team performance and demonstrate use of initiative.
• Coordination skills with other disciplines and consultants
• Good organisation skills.
• Lateral problem solver.

Responsibilities

• Leadership: Lead and inspire architectural teams through all project phases, from concept development to construction completion. Provide direction, guidance, and mentorship to architects and designers, fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Design Management: Oversee the development and implementation of architectural design concepts, ensuring alignment with client requirements, project objectives, and design standards. Lead design reviews, critique sessions, and presentations to stakeholders, driving design excellence and innovation.
• Material Submittal Review: Conduct thorough reviews of materials submitted by contractors, suppliers, and subcontractors to verify compliance with project specifications, quality standards, and regulatory requirements. Provide recommendations and approvals for material selections based on technical feasibility and performance criteria.
• Shop Drawing Review: Review and analyze shop drawings, detailed construction drawings, and architectural specifications to ensure accuracy, completeness, and conformance to design intent and contractual obligations. Coordinate with engineering disciplines and other stakeholders to resolve conflicts and discrepancies.
• Regulatory Awareness: Stay abreast of evolving building codes, regulations, and industry standards relevant to architectural design and construction in the UAE. Ensure all architectural elements comply with regulatory requirements and secure necessary approvals from regulatory authorities.
• Handover Procedures: Develop and implement comprehensive handover procedures to facilitate the smooth transition from construction to occupancy. Coordinate with project teams to compile as-built documentation, operation manuals, and warranties for client handover.
• Site Attendance: Conduct regular site visits and inspections to monitor construction progress, assess quality of workmanship, and address architectural-related issues in a timely manner. Collaborate with contractors, subcontractors, and project stakeholders to ensure adherence to architectural drawings and specifications.

Rewards and Benefits

We offer an excellent package which includes:

• A competitive salary
• 26 working days annual leave (6 day work week)
• Medical and life insurance cover.
• Company gratuity scheme.
• Discretionary bonus scheme.
• Annual flight allowance to point of origin.
• Employee Assistance Programme – 24 hour free advice on financial, legal and family care specialists and also access to personal health, fitness and nutrition consultants

AtkinsRéalis is committed to eliminating discrimination and encouraging diversity amongst our workforce. We aim to provide quality and fairness for all job applicants and employees and not to discriminate on grounds of gender, marital status, age, race, ethnic origin, religious conviction or disablement. We oppose all forms of unlawful treatment and discrimination. Our aim is for the company to be representative of all sections of society and that each employee feels respected and able to give their best. We are committed to a policy of treating all our employees and job applications equally.

We pursue this commitment by:

- Having clear and concise procedures and guidelines for both line managers and employees to ensure policies are fully understood and implemented.

- Complying with the relevant employment legislation and codes of practice.

- Ensuring that all existing employees, potential employees, colleagues and customers are treated equally and with respect.

- Ensuring that the workplace is an environment free from discrimination, harassment, victimization and bullying regardless of an individual’s gender, marital status, age, race, ethnic origin, religious conviction or disablement.

- Making all decisions relating to recruitment, selection or promotion according to the employees’ ability