Job Description
WSP in the Middle East are seeking a highly accomplished
Associate / Associate Director – Technical Architect to join our Abu Dhabi team and lead the technical delivery of major multidisciplinary projects across the UAE and wider Middle East region.
The Associate / Associate Director – Technical Architect will provide technical leadership across all stages of design and project delivery, ensuring architectural excellence, compliance, constructability, and quality. The role requires a seasoned professional with extensive experience delivering large-scale, complex developments in the Middle East and a proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and engage with senior stakeholders.
Responsibilities
- Lead the technical architectural design and delivery of major projects from concept through construction.
- Provide expert guidance on building systems, materials, detailing, coordination, and technical compliance.
- Review and approve architectural deliverables to ensure alignment with project requirements, quality standards, and local regulations.
- Coordinate closely with structural, MEP, landscape, and specialist disciplines to ensure integrated design solutions.
- Lead technical reviews, design audits, and quality assurance processes.
- Ensure compliance with UAE building regulations, international codes, and client standards.
- Provide technical mentoring and leadership to architects and project teams.
- Support project directors and design leads in managing programme, risk, resources, and technical performance.
- Interface with clients, authorities, contractors, and key stakeholders throughout project delivery.
- Contribute to business development activities, proposals, and strategic client engagements where required.
- Champion innovation, sustainability, and digital design methodologies across projects.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's or master's degree in architecture.
- Minimum 15 years professional experience, with significant exposure to the Middle East market.
- Proven track record delivering large-scale mixed-use, commercial, hospitality, residential, aviation, cultural, healthcare, or public sector projects.
- Strong technical expertise in architectural detailing, specifications, building systems, and construction methodologies.
- In-depth understanding of UAE authority approvals and building regulations.
- Demonstrated experience leading multidisciplinary design coordination.
- Strong knowledge of international design and construction standards.
- Excellent stakeholder management and client-facing skills.
- Strong communication and leadership capabilities.
Preferred
- Chartered Architect, RIBA, AIA, ARB, or equivalent professional accreditation.
- Experience working within leading international consultancy environments.
- Knowledge of BIM delivery processes and digital design platforms.
- Experience leading teams within complex, fast-paced project environments.
What You'll Bring
- Strategic technical leadership.
- Strong commercial and project delivery awareness.
- Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
- A collaborative approach with the ability to influence senior stakeholders.
- Commitment to quality, innovation, and design excellence.
Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all.
Join our close-knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact. Our global team includes more than 69,000 employees, working together to make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world.
With us, you can. Apply today. 
