Senior Architect

KF; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading contracting organization in Abu Dhabi seeks a Senior Architect to lead the design for luxury villas and residential properties. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in architectural design, particularly within Design & Build projects. Responsibilities include coordinating with various engineering disciplines and ensuring compliance with UAE regulations. Candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree in Architecture and experience with design software like AutoCAD and Revit/BIM.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in architectural roles within Design & Build contracting.
• Strong expertise in luxury villa and residential property design.
• Excellent knowledge of UAE regulations and sustainable design practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design of luxury villas and residential developments.
• Coordinate architectural design with other engineering disciplines.
• Ensure adherence to UAE building codes and quality assurance.

Skills

Architectural design of luxury villas

Collaboration across multidisciplinary teams

Stakeholder management

Proficiency in design software

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Architecture

Master’s degree or professional certification

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit/BIM

SketchUp

Job description

Position: Senior Architect

Location: Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates

Reporting To: Design & Build Project Director

About the Client

Our client is a leading contracting organization headquartered in Abu Dhabi delivering large-scale civil and infrastructure projects across the UAE. Operating under a global holding structure, the company is recognized for its financial discipline, transparency and strong project governance.

Role Overview

The Senior Architect will be responsible for leading the design and coordination of architectural works for luxury villas and residential properties within complex Design & Build projects. This role requires a creative and technically proficient professional who can deliver innovative designs, ensure compliance with international standards and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to achieve excellence in project delivery.

Key Responsibilities

Design & Technical Leadership

• Lead the architectural design of luxury villas and residential developments.
• Prepare, review and validate design drawings, specifications and architectural details.
• Provide creative solutions that balance aesthetics, functionality, sustainability and cost efficiency.

Project Coordination & Delivery

• Coordinate architectural design with structural, MEP and other engineering disciplines.
• Support site teams during construction ensuring design intent is maintained.
• Monitor project progress and ensure architectural deliverables meet quality, safety and schedule requirements.

Governance & Compliance

• Ensure adherence to UAE building codes, international standards and client specifications.
• Implement quality assurance and control procedures for all architectural activities.
• Contribute to transparent reporting and documentation in line with project governance frameworks.

Risk Management & Problem Solving

• Identify and mitigate risks related to architectural design and execution.
• Resolve technical and design issues promptly to avoid project delays.
• Participate in value engineering initiatives to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.

Team Collaboration & Development

• Work closely with project managers, engineers and subcontractors to ensure smooth coordination.
• Mentor junior architects and support their professional development.
• Foster a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and accountability.

Job Requirements

• Proven track record in architectural roles within Design & Build contracting construction or residential development organizations.
• Strong expertise in luxury villa and residential property design.
• Proficiency in design software (e.g. AutoCAD, Revit/BIM, SketchUp) and project management platforms.
• Excellent knowledge of UAE regulations, international standards and sustainable design practices.
• Strong communication, coordination and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, project-driven environment with a focus on financial discipline and transparency.
• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture; Master’s degree or professional certification preferred.

Required Experience

Senior IC

Korn Ferry shall provide equal employment opportunity to all qualified candidates and will refer candidates without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected basis.