Design Director - Architecture

Jacobs; United Arab Emirates; Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company as an Architectural Design Director, where you'll lead innovative projects that shape cities and enhance communities. Your expertise will guide a talented team in delivering exceptional design solutions, while fostering collaboration and professional growth. With a commitment to quality and client satisfaction, you'll play a pivotal role in managing complex projects and mentoring the next generation of architects. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in a dynamic environment, balancing both in-person collaboration and flexible remote work.

Benefits

Flexible Working Arrangements

Employee Networks

Mental Health Initiatives

Community Engagement Opportunities

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience on mega projects in the Middle East.
• Strong knowledge of design management principles.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor the architectural team to improve capabilities.
• Manage the design process from concept to construction documentation.

Skills

Design Management

Client Management

Team Leadership

Architectural Design

Project Management

Education

BS in Architecture

MS in Architecture

Professional Registration

Job description

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

Jacobs is looking for a talented Architectural Design Director to join our Cities and Places team in Dubai. You will lead and deliver the design of challenging building projects, mixed-use developments, and unique places of human interaction. Your responsibilities include managing cross-functional, multi-disciplinary teams, providing direction to ensure project delivery, and developing new business opportunities.

Be part of world-class developments and contribute to iconic projects. Make a difference in the Design Management function on Urban & Masterplanning, Buildings, and Hotels, offering comprehensive solutions to our clients' challenges.

Key responsibilities include:

1. Leading, coaching, and mentoring the architectural team to improve industry knowledge and staff capabilities.
2. Supporting Jacobs C&P team in growing technical knowledge and professional development.
3. Providing design leadership on C&P projects.
4. Engaging with clients as a Jacobs Design Lead.
5. Preparing and presenting design ideas and progress to clients, supported by the design team.
6. Addressing technical issues and guiding teams towards solutions.
7. Building and reviewing systems and processes for design improvements and growth.
8. Ensuring quality in design and documentation through review and guidance at multidisciplinary levels.
9. Strategizing design delivery for large projects and managing related skillsets.
10. Participating in regional design reviews.
11. Managing the design process from concept to construction documentation.
12. Mentoring junior staff towards professional excellence.
13. Collaborating with the Regional Director to enhance design quality across projects.

Work environment

We value collaboration and believe in the importance of in-person interactions for our culture and client delivery. Our hybrid working policy allows employees to split their week between Jacobs offices and remote work, enabling optimal performance.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have a BS or MS degree in Architecture or Engineering from a recognized university, with hands-on experience on mega projects. Experience in the Middle East as a Design Director is preferred. You should demonstrate strong knowledge of recognized design management control principles, with the ability to motivate others and meet tight deadlines. Excellent client management skills and the ability to lead diverse teams under pressure are essential. Professional registration with an international body is a plus.

Our culture

Jacobs is committed to fostering an inclusive environment through employee networks and mental health initiatives. We support flexible working arrangements, benefits, and opportunities for community engagement. Join us to connect locally and globally, and to grow your career while making a positive impact on the world.