Associate / Associate Director – Technical Architect

Job Overview

WSP is recruiting an experienced Associate or Associate Director to lead technical architectural projects within the UAE and broader Middle East. This role demands a seasoned professional to guide multidisciplinary teams across large-scale developments, ensuring design quality, technical accuracy, and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the architectural design process from initial concept through to construction completion on major projects.
• Offer expert advice on building materials, systems, detailing, coordination, and regulatory compliance.
• Review and sanction architectural outputs to uphold project specifications, quality benchmarks, and local legal requirements.
• Collaborate intensively with structural, MEP, landscape, and specialty teams to deliver cohesive integrated designs.
• Lead technical evaluations, design audits, and quality assurance activities.
• Ensure all designs conform to UAE building codes, international standards, and client criteria.
• Provide mentorship and leadership to architects and project teams to foster technical excellence.
• Assist project leadership in overseeing schedule, risk mitigation, resource allocation, and technical progress.
• Engage effectively with clients, regulatory bodies, contractors, and key project stakeholders throughout the delivery lifecycle.
• Support business development through proposal contributions and client relationship management.
• Promote innovation, sustainability, and digital methodologies such as BIM within projects.

Qualifications and Experience

• Possession of a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture.
• At least 15 years of professional experience with substantive work in the Middle East market.
• Proven expertise in managing mixed-use, commercial, hospitality, residential, aviation, cultural, healthcare, or public sector projects.
• Strong technical knowledge in detailing, specifications, building systems, and construction techniques.
• Comprehensive understanding of UAE authority approvals and regulations.
• Experience leading coordination across multiple design disciplines.
• Familiarity with international design and construction standards.
• Excellent skills in stakeholder management and client interaction.
• Strong leadership and communication abilities.

Preferred Credentials

• Recognition as a Chartered Architect or accreditation from professional bodies such as RIBA, AIA, or ARB.
• Employment experience in prominent international consultancy firms.
• Competence with BIM delivery and digital design platforms.
• Experience managing teams in complex and high-paced environments.

Personal Attributes

• Strategic outlook in technical leadership.
• Awareness of commercial aspects and project delivery requirements.
• Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• A collaborative mindset with ability to influence senior stakeholders.
• Dedication to quality, innovation, and architectural excellence.

About WSP

Join a global community of over 69,000 employees committed to creating positive impacts across communities worldwide by delivering innovative design and engineering solutions.