Principal Electrical Engineer

Robert Bird Group; Dubai; On-site; AED 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A global multidisciplinary consultancy is seeking a Principal Electrical Engineer to lead electrical engineering design across major projects in the Middle East. This role involves managing multidisciplinary teams, ensuring compliance with regional codes, and engaging with clients to deliver successful project outcomes. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering and at least 15 years of relevant experience, particularly with projects in the Middle East. A strong technical background and excellent leadership skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum 15 years’ relevant experience in electrical and MEP design delivery.
• Mandatory experience delivering projects in the Middle East.
• Proven experience acting as Project MEP Lead or Electrical Lead.

Responsibilities

• Act as Project MEP Lead with full responsibility for MEP scope.
• Lead the delivery of electrical engineering design.
• Manage multidisciplinary MEP teams and technical outputs.

Skills

Electrical engineering systems expertise

Client-facing communication skills

Leadership and mentorship

Programme management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent

Job description

Surbana Jurong (SJ Group) is a global multidisciplinary consultancy dedicated to shaping cities, transforming communities, and delivering sustainable, people-centric environments. With over 16,500 professionals across 40+ countries, our Middle East practice continues to expand rapidly, delivering major programmes across buildings, infrastructure, cities, and complex mixed-use developments.

The Role

We are seeking an experienced Principal Electrical Engineer to provide technical leadership and delivery excellence across major projects in the Middle East. The role will play a key part in leading electrical and overall MEP design delivery, managing multidisciplinary teams, and engaging with clients and stakeholders to ensure successful project outcomes in line with SJ standards and procedures.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as Project MEP Lead (or Electrical Lead where applicable), with full responsibility for managing and coordinating the MEP scope from concept design through construction and handover.
• Lead the delivery of electrical engineering design, ensuring compliance with client requirements, regional codes, statutory authorities, and SJ standards.
• Provide technical leadership and oversight for electrical systems including power distribution, lighting, ELV, life safety, and specialist systems.
• Lead and manage multidisciplinary MEP teams, including resource planning, workload management, and technical review of outputs.
• Drive project delivery in line with agreed programme, quality, and commercial objectives.
• Lead client‑facing activities such as technical presentations, design reviews, authority coordination, and stakeholder meetings.
• Coordinate closely with Architecture, Structural, Civil, and other engineering disciplines to deliver fully integrated design solutions.
• Take full ownership and accountability for technical outputs, coordination, risk management, and overall project performance.

Key Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree (BEng/BSc Hons) in Electrical or equivalent.
• Minimum 15 years’ relevant experience in electrical and MEP design delivery.
• Mandatory experience delivering projects in the Middle East, with strong knowledge of regional codes, authority approvals, and standards.
• Proven experience acting as Project MEP Lead or Electrical Lead on complex, multidisciplinary projects.
• Demonstrated ability to lead large teams and manage technically complex project scopes.

Key Knowledge and Skills

• Strong technical expertise in electrical engineering systems and integrated MEP design.
• Excellent client‑facing, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proven leadership capability with the ability to mentor and develop high‑performing teams.
• High level of ownership, accountability, and attention to detail.
• Strong understanding of programme management, quality assurance, and commercial drivers.
• Ability to operate effectively within fast‑paced, multi‑project consultancy environments.

Why Join SJ?

Join a global, multidisciplinary consultancy delivering landmark projects across the Middle East. At SJ, you will collaborate with world‑class professionals, contribute to high‑profile developments, and help shape sustainable and resilient built environments.

How to Apply

Please submit your application through our official careers portal by clicking the "Apply Now" button and following the instructions.

Note: Recruitment for this role is managed internally. Unsolicited CVs from agencies will not be considered.

At Surbana Jurong, we put talent, hard work, teamwork and a fun workplace together to approach problems and solve them creatively and collaboratively. Join us in making a positive impact on the world!