Principal Engineer Mechanical

WSP USA; Dubai; On-site; AED 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A global engineering firm in Dubai is seeking a Stadium Specialist – Mechanical (HVAC) to lead complex mechanical design for sports venues. You will drive the HVAC vision, manage multidisciplinary teams, and ensure adherence to building codes. The ideal candidate has 8–15 years of experience in HVAC design, particularly for stadiums, and strong leadership skills. This role offers an exciting opportunity to shape innovative and energy-efficient solutions in stadium infrastructure.

Qualifications

• 8–15 years of experience in HVAC design, with a portfolio of stadium or large-scale venue projects.
• Strong understanding of international building codes and stadium-specific standards (e.g., FIFA, UEFA, NFL).
• Experience in multicultural environments.

Responsibilities

• Define and lead HVAC design vision for stadium projects.
• Ensure integration of HVAC systems with architectural and structural designs.
• Mentor junior engineers and foster a culture of technical excellence.
• Support business development through proposals and presentations.

Skills

HVAC design expertise

Leadership skills

Stakeholder management

Communication skills

Multidisciplinary teamwork

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

BIM/Revit

CFD simulations

Job description

WSP in the Middle East is seeking a dynamic, highly experienced Stadium Specialist – Mechanical (HVAC) to join our design team and lead the design and delivery of complex mechanical systems for world-class sports venues. This role demands deep expertise in stadium infrastructure, a passion for innovation, and the ability to guide multidisciplinary teams across global projects. You will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of stadium experiences through smart, sustainable, and high-performance HVAC design.

Technical Design & Delivery

• Define and drive the mechanical (HVAC) design vision for stadium projects, ensuring alignment with client goals, performance standards, and international codes.
• Lead the end-to-end HVAC design process for stadium projects, from concept development through detailed design and construction support.
• Design and implement bowl cooling and outdoor air‑conditioning strategies for open‑air stadiums, leveraging experience in similar projects in the Middle Eastern climates to ensure thermal comfort and energy efficiency.
• Produce and oversee technical documentation: cooling/heating load calculations, ventilation strategies, ductwork layouts, specifications, and compliance matrices.
• Champion the use of advanced modelling tools (BIM/Revit, CFD simulations) to optimise system performance, energy efficiency, and occupant comfort.
• Ensure seamless integration of HVAC systems with architectural, structural, electrical, and building technology systems.
• Lead internal design reviews and technical workshops to elevate team capabilities and ensure consistent quality across deliverables.
• Provide technical guidance during construction phases, review shop drawings/material submittals, respond to RFIs, and conduct site surveys.

Team Development

• Mentor and develop junior engineers and emerging talent, fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous learning.
• Share best practices in stadium‑specific systems and guide the team in adopting innovative design approaches.

Global Collaboration

• Collaborate closely with regional and global teams to align designs with global standards and leverage cross‑office expertise.
• Contribute to knowledge exchange initiatives, promoting innovation and consistency across the WSP’s stadium portfolio.
• Adapt designs to diverse cultural, climatic, and regulatory environments while maintaining technical integrity.

Business Growth & Client Engagement

• Support business development efforts by contributing to technical proposals, client presentations, and design narratives.
• Identify opportunities to enhance service offerings through innovation, sustainability, and performance‑driven design.
• Represent the electrical discipline in client engagements, building trust and positioning the firm as a leader in stadium design.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• 8–15 years of experience in HVAC design, with a strong portfolio of stadium or large‑scale venue projects.
• Strong understanding of international building codes and stadium‑specific standards (e.g., FIFA, UEFA, NFL).
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience working in multidisciplinary and multicultural environments.