Lead Architect (Site Supervision)

Atkins Realis Group; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 450,000 - 750,000; Full time

Job summary

Atkins Realis Group is seeking an experienced Lead Architect to lead design coordination and supervise on-site execution for major projects in Abu Dhabi. The role ensures architectural intent is maintained, with multidisciplinary coordination and compliance with local codes.

Requirements include 15+ years of architecture experience, strong AutoCAD/Revit/BIM skills, and prior UAE/Abu Dhabi project exposure. Excellent communication and team leadership are essential.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of professional architecture experience.
• Experience in large-scale projects (mixed-use, commercial, hospitality, or infrastructure).
• Proven track record in site supervision and PMC/consultancy.
• Familiarity with UAE regulations and authority approvals.

Responsibilities

• Lead architectural design review and technical coordination throughout project lifecycle.
• Supervise architectural works on-site and ensure compliance with drawings, specs, and contract requirements.
• Review and approve shop drawings, submittals, RFIs, method statements, and mock-ups.
• Conduct site inspections and prepare site observation reports.
• Coordinate with clients, consultants, contractors, and authorities to resolve issues.
• Monitor construction progress and ensure adherence to schedules.
• Mentor junior staff and lead multidisciplinary teams.
• Participate in design changes, value engineering, and problem solving during construction.

Skills

Architectural coordination

Site supervision

Multidisciplinary coordination

QA/QC

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Architecture

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

BIM platforms

Job description

Job Description Overview

We are seeking an experienced Lead Architect to lead architectural design coordination and provide site supervision services for large-scale building projects.

The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the architectural intent is maintained throughout construction, managing multidisciplinary coordination, reviewing contractor submissions, and overseeing site execution in compliance with project specifications, local regulations, and quality standards.

Your role

Lead architectural design review and technical coordination throughout project lifecycle. Supervise architectural works on-site and ensure compliance with approved drawings, specifications, and contract requirements. Review and approve shop drawings, material submittals, RFIs, method statements, and mock-ups. Conduct regular site inspections and prepare site observation reports. Coordinate with clients, consultants, contractors, and authorities to resolve technical issues. Monitor construction progress and ensure adherence to project schedules. Ensure compliance with UAE building codes, authority regulations, and health amp safety requirements. Lead architectural QA QC activities and manage snagging, de-snagging and handover processes. Mentor junior architects and site supervision staff. Participate in design changes, value engineering and technical problem solving during construction.

Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Architecture. Professional registration/accreditation preferred.

Minimum 15+ years of experience in architecture, with significant experience in construction supervision/PMC/consultancy projects . Experience in large-scale mixed-use, commercial, hospitality, residential, aviation, healthcare, or infrastructure projects.

Strong knowledge of architectural detailing, building materials, construction methodologies, and UAE regulations. Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, BIM platforms, and Microsoft Office. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills. Experience working with international engineering consultancy firms.

Previous experience in Abu Dhabi and familiarity with DMT, ADM, and UAE authority requirements. Site supervision experience on projects valued above USD 100M. Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and managing contractor performance.