Principal Engineer - Mechanical (Infrastructure)

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced Principal Mechanical Engineer (Infrastructure) to join our Transport & Infrastructure business unit in Riyadh. In this role, you will lead the mechanical design and coordination of major infrastructure and land development projects across Saudi Arabia. You will work closely with multidisciplinary teams, government authorities, and key stakeholders to deliver robust, compliant, and innovative engineering solutions.

This role is ideal for a seasoned mechanical engineer with deep technical expertise in district cooling, chilled water networks, gas systems, and mechanical infrastructure design, combined with strong leadership and stakeholder management capabilities.

Responsibilities

Mechanical Infrastructure Design & Engineering

• Provide complete engineering solutions, technical analysis, specifications, and procurement support for large-scale infrastructure projectsspecifically district cooling/chilled water networks, gas systems, and mechanical components of pump stations.
• Develop feasibility studies (both technical and commercial) for cooling strategies at master plan level, including district cooling and decentralized cooling scenarios for large developments.
• Carry out feasibility assessments for gas supply systems, evaluating project demands and coordinating with the dry utilities team to determine optimal solutions (e.g., gas systems vs. electric alternatives).
• Prepare technical comparisons between multiple gas options such as LPG, SNG, and other fuel types.
• Lead the design of gas farms and associated piping networks for small-, medium-, and large-scale developments.
• Demonstrate strong familiarity with the design of LPG farms, Primary Pressure Regulating Stations (PPRS), Secondary Pressure Regulating Stations (SPRS), and related gas infrastructure components.
• Ensure mechanical designs align with relevant standards and guidelines, including ASHRAE, Saudi Building Code (SBC), Civil Defense, NFPA, IGEM, and other applicable international and Saudi authority standards.
• Provide expert advice and technical guidance on all aspects of chilled water networks, gas distribution systems, district cooling plants, and mechanical utility infrastructure.
  
  

Hydraulic Modelling & Technical Analysis

• Conduct chilled water and gas network hydraulic modelling using software such as Bentley WaterGEMS, SISHYD/GasWorks, and preferably FLUDIT for chilled water network analysis.
• Analyse system performance, pressure requirements, flow distribution, and network stability to ensure optimal functionality and efficiency.
• Validate modelling outputs and incorporate findings into engineering design packages and tender documents.
  
  

Tendering, Documentation & Technical Support

• Lead the development of district cooling plant tender documents, including concept process design and performance specifications for Design & Build (D&B) packages.
• Prepare and maintain technical documentation, design reports, feasibility assessments, and project records required by clients and regulatory bodies.
• Provide strategic technical input for procurement packages, material selection, and mechanical equipment evaluations.
  
  

Regulatory Compliance & Authority Coordination

• Stay informed of evolving industry regulations, authority standards, and best practices to ensure all mechanical infrastructure designs adhere to the latest requirements.
• Identify and mitigate potential risks associated with gas and mechanical utility projects, and establish contingency plans as needed.
• Act as a key point of contact for clients and regulatory authorities throughout the design and approval process.
  
  

Project Delivery & Construction Support

• Review contractor shop drawings, material submittals, and method statements to ensure compliance with design intent and project specifications.
• Attend and organize project progress meetings, coordination workshops, and interface discussions with contractors, consultants, and authorities.
• Follow internal QA/QC processes to ensure the accuracy, completeness, and quality of all technical deliverables.
• Support site teams with technical clarifications and respond to contractor queries during construction phases.
  
  

Leadership, Mentorship & Team Development

• Mentor and guide junior and mid-level mechanical engineers, sharing technical expertise and supporting their professional growth.
• Foster a collaborative environment across multidisciplinary teams to drive high-quality design outcomes.
• Maintain strong client relationships through consistent communication, timely updates, and proactive issue resolution.
  
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering (Master's degree preferred).
• Minimum 10 years of professional experience in mechanical infrastructure design.
• Strong experience in Saudi Arabia on large-scale infrastructure, master planning, utilities, or land development projects.
• In-depth technical expertise in district cooling, chilled water networks, gas infrastructure, pressure regulating systems, and mechanical utilities.
• Proven track record coordinating with Saudi authorities and government agencies.
• Proficiency in hydraulic modelling and design software (WaterGEMS, SISHYD/GasWorks, FLUDIT or equivalent).
• Strong communication, stakeholder engagement, and project management skills.
• Ability to lead multidisciplinary coordination and manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• Compiling authority approval documentation in accordance with local authority standards to obtain approvals
  
  

What if we can have work-life balance What if we can be rewarded in ways that support our individual needs What if we can be accepted for who we are Here at WSP we can!

WSP recognizes that work is only one part of our lives and making time for the other things in our life is important be that our families, our friends or ourselves. So, if working from home, working part-time or having flexible start and finish time will help with this let us know as part of your application.

As well as rewarding you with competitive pay, WSP offers standard benefits including first class medical cover, generous days annual leave, and paid professional subscriptions.

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.