Associate / Associate Director – Technical Architect

WSP; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 350,000 - 550,000; Full time

Job summary

WSP in the United Arab Emirates seeks an Associate / Associate Director – Technical Architect to lead the technical delivery of major multidisciplinary projects in Abu Dhabi and the broader Middle East. You will drive architectural excellence, ensure constructability, and guide teams through design to construction with senior stakeholders.

You will mentor architects, coordinate with structural, MEP, landscape, and other disciplines, and contribute to proposals and client engagements while

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or master's degree in architecture.
• Minimum 15 years' professional experience, with significant exposure to the Middle East market.
• 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.
• Preferred: Chartered Architect, RIBA, AIA, ARB or equivalent accreditation.
• Knowledge of BIM delivery processes and digital design platforms.
• Experience leading teams within complex, fast-paced project environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead the technical architectural design and delivery of major projects from concept through construction.
• Provide expert guidance on building systems, detailing, coordination, and technical compliance.
• Review and approve architectural deliverables to ensure alignment with project requirements and regulations.
• Coordinate closely with structural, MEP, landscape, and other disciplines for integrated design solutions.
• Lead technical reviews, design audits, and quality assurance processes.
• Ensure compliance with UAE regulations and international codes.
• Mentor and lead architects and project teams; interface with clients and stakeholders.
• Support project directors in managing programme, risk, resources, and technical performance.
• Contribute to business development activities, proposals, and client engagements as required.
• Champion innovation, sustainability and digital design methodologies.

Job description

Associate / Associate Director – Technical Architect

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

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.
• 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.