Data Engineering Lead

Jacobs Engineering Group Inc; United Arab Emirates; Hybrid; AED 344,000 - 432,000; Full time

Job summary

A global engineering consultancy in the United Arab Emirates is actively seeking a Data Engineering Lead. This position involves leading a team of data engineers and managing end-to-end data and AI project delivery. The ideal candidate will possess strong technical skills in data engineering, project management experience, and leadership capabilities. This role offers the chance to work on impactful projects that drive innovation in digital infrastructure.

Qualifications

• Advanced proficiency in ETL/ELT tools such as Azure Data Factory and SQL.
• Experience managing teams and delivering complex data projects.
• Hands-on experience with Power BI or AEC workflows.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of data engineers and analysts.
• Oversee end-to-end delivery of data and AI projects.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to define data strategy.

Skills

Data Engineering Expertise

Leadership

Project Management

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering or related field

Tools

Azure Data Factory

SQL

Python

Power BI

Jira

Job description

Market Cities & Places

At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission‑critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting‑edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.

Your impact

At Jacobs, we are building a Digital and Data capability, working to apply digital expertise to some of the most ambitious urban and infrastructure developments around the world.

In Digital and Data we work with clients to establish their digital infrastructure needs, then develop place‑based digital strategies by exploring the assets required and benefits they can bring to key stakeholders. We support the design, deployment, cybersecurity and operation of networks, Smart City platforms and operational technology. In this emerging business area, we work with cities, local authorities and developer clients, leading telecom operators and investors, manufacturing clients, IoT providers and development owners.

About the opportunity

We are looking for an experienced Data Engineering Lead who can not only design and implement scalable data solutions but also manage projects and lead teams. This role requires a strategic mindset to drive AI and data initiatives across engineering consultation projects, ensuring alignment with business goals and regional priorities. The ideal candidate will combine strong technical expertise with leadership skills and a deep understanding of either the AEC industry, Power Platform ecosystem, or enterprise data management practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership & Team Management: Lead and mentor a team of data engineers and analysts; manage resource allocation and team performance.
• Project Delivery: Oversee end‑to‑end delivery of data and AI projects, ensuring timelines, quality, and stakeholder satisfaction.
• Strategic Alignment: Collaborate with senior leadership to define data strategy and AI adoption roadmap for engineering consultation projects.
• Technical Oversight:

• Design and maintain scalable data pipelines and architectures.
• Ensure data governance, security and compliance across projects.

• Innovation & AI Integration: Identify opportunities to leverage AI and automation for improving project efficiency and client outcomes.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Act as a bridge between technical teams and business units, translating requirements into actionable solutions.

Here’s what you’ll need

• Data Engineering Expertise: Advanced proficiency in ETL/ELT tools (Azure Data Factory, Synapse), SQL, Python/Scala.
• Leadership: Proven experience managing teams and delivering complex projects.
• Power Platform or AEC Knowledge: Hands‑on experience with Power BI, Power Apps, or familiarity with AEC workflows and data challenges.

• Project Management: Strong understanding of Agile/Waterfall methodologies and tools (e.g., Jira, MS Project).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with cloud platforms (Fabric, Azure, Palantir Foundry).
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering or related field.
• 8+ years of experience, including 3+ years in a leadership or project management role.

Locations

• Riyadh – Saudi Arabia
• Bur Dubai – United Arab Emirates
• Bur Dubai – United Arab Emirates

At Jacobs, from our inclusive employee networks to our positive mental health champions, we are committed to fostering a culture of care where you can truly be yourself. Joining Jacobs connects you locally and globally, leveraging our diverse perspectives and unique backgrounds to power our collective strength. We collaborate and share to ensure mutual success.

Your application experience is important to us, and we’re keen to adapt to make every interaction even better. If you require further support or reasonable adjustments with regards to the recruitment process (for example, you require the application form in a different format), please contact the team via Careers Support.

We value collaboration and believe that in‑person interactions are crucial for both our culture and client delivery. We empower employees with our hybrid working policy, allowing them to split their work week between Jacobs offices/projects and remote locations enabling them to deliver their best work.