Arada | MEP Manager - Special Projects, UAE

Arada; Dubai; On-site; AED 450,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

Arada in Dubai is seeking an MEP Manager for the Special Projects department to lead end-to-end management of mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems on fast-track developments, from concept to handover, ensuring UAE regulatory compliance and high-quality delivery.

You will coordinate design reviews, tendering, authority approvals, site QA/QC, and testing and commissioning, while guiding contractors and internal teams to meet schedule, budget and performance targets.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering.
• 8–10 years of MEP management experience on fast-track fit-out projects.
• Deep familiarity with UAE building codes and utility authority requirements.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate MEP requirements during concept and feasibility stages to ensure viability and budget alignment.
• Lead MEP tendering, bid evaluations and contractor recommendations.
• Navigate approvals with UAE authorities (DEWA, SEWA, FEWA, Civil Defense).
• Review shop drawings, oversee QA/QC and testing & commissioning.

Skills

Fast-Track Delivery

Detail Oriented

Stakeholder Management

Problem Solving

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering

Job description

About us

At Arada, we create communities that inspire healthier, happier and more meaningful lives. Through innovative developments, exceptional customer experiences and a commitment to sustainability, we are shaping places where people can live, work and thrive.

Joining Arada means becoming part of a collaborative, ambitious and forward-thinking team dedicated to delivering excellence across every aspect of our business.

Role Purpose:

The MEP Manager for the Special Projects department will be responsible for the end-to-end technical management of Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) systems across a diverse portfolio of high-end, fast-track developments. This role bridges the gap between initial concept and final handover, ensuring that all MEP services are designed for efficiency, compliant with UAE regulations, and executed to the highest standards of quality.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Pre-Construction & Design Management

• Evaluate MEP requirements during the concept and feasibility stages to ensure technical viability and budget alignment.


• Conduct comprehensive design reviews at various milestones (Schematic, Detail Design, IFC), identifying potential value engineering opportunities without compromising quality.


• Provide expert input on specifications for MEP equipment and materials to ensure long-term durability and operational efficiency.

2. Tendering & Procurement

• Lead the preparation of MEP tender packages, ensuring clear scopes of work and technical requirements.


• Perform rigorous technical and commercial bid evaluations.


• Develop tender recommendation reports to assist senior leadership in selecting the most qualified contractors.

3. Authority Compliance & Liaison

• Navigate and manage the technical approval process with local UAE authorities, including DEWA, SEWA, FEWA, and Civil Defense.


• Ensure all designs and installations meet the specific regulatory standards of Dubai, Sharjah, and the Northern Emirates.

4. Post-Award & Site Execution

• Review and approve contractor shop drawings and Material Submittals to ensure alignment with the approved design and project timeline.


• Oversee QA/QC protocols on-site, conducting regular inspections to ensure installation excellence and adherence to safety standards.


• Manage the MEP aspects of testing and commissioning (T&C), ensuring a seamless transition to the operations team.

What you'll bring:

Skill, Knowledge & Experience

Experience & Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering.


• Experience: Minimum of 8–10 years of experience in MEP management, with a significant focus on fast-track fit-out projects (e.g., F&B outlets, boutique fitness clubs, and luxury retail).


• Regional Knowledge: Deep familiarity with UAE building codes and utility authority requirements (DEWA/SEWA/FEWA).


• Portfolio: Proven track record of managing MEP elements for high-end commercial and hospitality portfolios.

Technical & Soft Skills

• Fast-Track Delivery: Ability to manage compressed timelines and rapid-turnover projects without sacrificing technical integrity.


• Detail Oriented: Strong capability in reviewing complex shop drawings and identifying coordination issues (clash detection) before they reach the site.


• Stakeholder Management: Excellent communication skills to coordinate between consultants, contractors, and internal departments (Legal, Procurement, and Site Engineering).


• Problem Solving: A proactive approach to troubleshooting site-level MEP challenges and providing immediate, compliant solutions.

Using GenAI in Your Application Process

To support a fair and consistent experience for all candidates, we ask that assessments and interviews are completed independently and without assistance from generative AI tools. This ensures we understand your strengths, your thinking, and how you approach real situations.

Why join Arada?

At Arada, you'll have the opportunity to contribute to projects that transform communities while working alongside talented professionals in a culture that values innovation, collaboration and continuous growth. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and make a meaningful impact.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Arada is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals and make employment decisions based on merit, experience and business needs.