Instrumentation, Controls and Automation Lead

Atkins Realis; Dubai; Hybrid; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering services provider based in Dubai is seeking a highly skilled Instrumentation, Controls, and Automation (ICA) Lead. This role involves leading the design and coordination of mechanical engineering for water infrastructure projects. Candidates must have at least 15 years of relevant experience, proficiency in engineering design software, and excellent leadership and client relationship skills. The company offers a tax-free salary, comprehensive insurance, and flexible work options.

Benefits

Tax-free salary

Comprehensive life insurance

Premium medical insurance

Generous annual leave

Flexible and hybrid work solutions

Company gratuity scheme

Discretionary bonus

Annual flight contribution

Relocation assistance

Transportation & housing allowances

Employee Wellbeing Program

Qualifications

• Minimum 15 years of experience in ICA design and supervision on major water/wastewater infrastructure projects.
• Experience in leading mechanical works on utility projects in the UAE/GCC.
• Familiarity with design codes and standards (ASHRAE, AWWA, etc.).

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical engineering design for water-related projects.
• Develop ICA designs, specifications, and reports per international standards.
• Provide technical leadership, mentoring, and guidance to junior engineers.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Client relations

Design software proficiency

Education

Bachelor's degree in Instrumentation, Controls and Automation

Master's degree (preferred)

Professional Engineer (PE) certification

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled Instrumentation, Controls and Automation (ICA) Lead with a strong background in water and wastewater infrastructure projects to join our growing team. This role is critical to leading ICA design, coordination, and delivery across multidisciplinary projects in the water sector, ensuring technical excellence and project success.

Your role

• Act as the Independent Engineer and trusted advisor for high-value water infrastructure Lead and manage mechanical engineering design for water-related projects including pumping stations, water treatment plants, desalination facilities, and pipeline systems.
• Develop ICA designs, specifications, and reports in accordance with project requirements and international standards.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including civil, mechanical, electrical, and process engineers to deliver integrated solutions.
• Oversee and review work from internal teams and sub-consultants to ensure quality, accuracy, and compliance.
• Provide technical leadership, mentoring, and guidance to junior mechanical engineers.
• Support project managers with technical input, risk identification, cost estimation, and program management.
• Attend and lead client meetings, site visits, and technical reviews.
• Ensure that health and safety, sustainability, and quality standards are adhered to across all project stages.

About you

• Bachelor's degree in Instrumentation, Controls and Automation or related; Master's degree is preferred.
• Professional Certification is required – Professional Engineer (PE) or Chartered Engineer (CEng) with a related institution.
• Minimum 15 years of experience in ICA design and supervision, with a strong focus on major water/wastewater infrastructure.
• Proven experience in leading mechanical works on major water utility projects in the region (UAE/GCC experience preferred).
• Familiarity with relevant design codes and standards (e.g., ASHRAE, AWWA, API, BS/EN standards).
• Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and other relevant modeling tools.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and client-facing skills.

Rewards & benefits

Explore the rewards and benefits that help you thrive – at every stage of your life and your career.

This includes:

• Tax-free salary.
• Comprehensive life insurance coverage.
• Premium medical insurance for you and your dependents.
• Generous annual leave balance.
• Flexible and hybrid work solutions.
• Remote work opportunities outside of country.
• Company gratuity scheme.
• Discretionary bonus program.
• Annual flight contribution.
• Relocation assistance.
• Transportation & housing allowances (available for remote work locations).
• Employee Wellbeing Program: 24/7 access to specialists in finance, legal matters, family care, personal health, fitness, and nutrition.

Seize every opportunity to sharpen your skills, expand your expertise, and be recognized for the impact you make.

About AtkinsRéalis

We’re AtkinsRéalis, a world-class engineering services and nuclear organization. We connect people, data and technology to transform the world’s infrastructure and energy systems. Together, with our industry partners and clients, and our global team of consultants, designers, engineers and project managers, we can change the world. We’re committed to leading our clients across our various end markets to engineer a better future for our planet and its people.

Find out more.