Principal Engineer - Building Structures

WSP in the Middle East; Dubai; On-site; AED 350,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

WSP in the Middle East is seeking a Principal Engineer in Building Structures to lead complex projects in the UAE. You will set design direction, ensure code compliance, and champion innovative structural solutions on landmark buildings.

You will mentor engineers and BIM teams, review designs, and liaise with clients and regulators to deliver high-quality, safe, and efficient structures across the region.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Structural or Civil Engineering (Master’s preferred).
• Minimum 15 years of experience in structural engineering, including leadership roles on large-scale building projects.
• Expertise in steel and concrete design and advanced structural analysis.
• In-depth knowledge of UAE, KSA, and international design codes.
• Strong business acumen and ability to contribute to strategic growth initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the structural engineering function for major building projects from concept through completion.
• Define technical strategies and ensure alignment with project objectives, client requirements, and regulatory standards.
• Provide expert guidance and mentorship to senior engineers, graduate engineers, and BIM teams.
• Review and approve complex structural designs, calculations, and specifications for steel, concrete, and composite structures.
• Act as the primary technical authority in client meetings, offering strategic insights and resolving high-level engineering challenges.
• Oversee quality assurance processes, including audits, inspections, and compliance checks for structural works.
• Drive innovation by implementing advanced design methodologies and digital tools (e.g., BIM, parametric design).
• Ensure strict adherence to Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) standards across all structural activities.
• Manage stakeholder relationships, including clients, contractors, and regulatory authorities, to secure approvals and maintain compliance.
• Prepare executive-level reports and contribute to business development through technical proposals and presentations.

Skills

Structural engineering

Leadership

BIM

Code compliance

Stakeholder management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Structural or Civil Engineering

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

BIM software

Job description

Job Description

What if you could do the kind of work the world needs? At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace your curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives. You can experience a world of opportunity and the chance to shape a career as unique as you.

As a Principal Engineer in Building Structures, you will provide strategic technical leadership and oversight for complex building projects. You will be responsible for setting design direction, ensuring compliance with international and regional standards, and driving innovation in structural engineering solutions. Collaborate with senior stakeholders, lead multidisciplinary teams, and ensure projects are delivered to the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficiency.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the structural engineering function for major building projects from concept through completion.
• Define technical strategies and ensure alignment with project objectives, client requirements, and regulatory standards.
• Provide expert guidance and mentorship to senior engineers, graduate engineers, and BIM teams.
• Review and approve complex structural designs, calculations, and specifications for steel, concrete, and composite structures.
• Act as the primary technical authority in client meetings, offering strategic insights and resolving high-level engineering challenges.
• Oversee quality assurance processes, including audits, inspections, and compliance checks for structural works.
• Drive innovation by implementing advanced design methodologies and digital tools (e.g., BIM, parametric design).
• Ensure strict adherence to Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) standards across all structural activities.
• Manage stakeholder relationships, including clients, contractors, and regulatory authorities, to secure approvals and maintain compliance.
• Prepare executive-level reports and contribute to business development through technical proposals and presentations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Structural or Civil Engineering (Master’s preferred)
• Minimum 15 years of experience in structural engineering, including leadership roles on large-scale building projects
• Proven track record in managing complex, multidisciplinary projects
• Expertise in steel and concrete design and advanced structural analysis
• In-depth knowledge of UAE, KSA, and international design codes
• Strong business acumen and ability to contribute to strategic growth initiatives

Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all. Join our close-knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact. Our global team includes more than 69,000 employees, working together to make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world. With us, you can.