Site Manager - Freelancer

Evolution Services; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 277,000 - 461,000; Full time

Job summary

Evolution Services seeks an experienced Freelance Site Manager for a fixed-term assignment in Abu Dhabi from October to December 2026, with exact dates to be confirmed. The Site Manager will oversee the coordination of site operations for a large-scale event, including build-up, live event and breakdown phases.

The role requires leading the site team, coordinating with operations, security, logistics, facilities and HSE, managing contractors and ensuring delivery to approved plans, on time and

Qualifications

• Minimum 5–7 years of experience in site management or similar roles.
• Experience managing large-scale events (sports, festivals, exhibitions or major productions).
• Experience coordinating build-up, live operations and breakdown.
• Ability to manage multiple contractors and site teams simultaneously.
• Knowledge of temporary event infrastructure, site logistics, access control and deliveries.
• Good knowledge of health and safety requirements and site procedures.
• Fluent English; Arabic is an advantage.
• Valid UAE driving licence is required.

Responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day management of the event site.
• Plan and coordinate site activities across build-up, live event and breakdown.
• Supervise site personnel, contractors and suppliers.
• Coordinate with site operations, security, logistics, facilities and HSE teams.
• Manage site access, deliveries, vehicle movements and contractor access.
• Oversee site infrastructure, temporary structures, offices and site equipment.
• Monitor progress against schedules and site plans.
• Conduct regular site inspections and resolve operational issues.
• Maintain site schedules, permits and documentation.
• Serve as primary escalation point for site-related issues.
• Support emergency planning and site safety procedures.
• Ensure readiness of work areas before milestones and event opening.
• Coordinate safe removal of temporary infrastructure during breakdown.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Stakeholder management

Time management

Problem solving

Fluent English

Ability to work under pressure

Tools

Microsoft Office

Site management/reporting tools

Job description

We are seeking an experienced and adaptable Freelance Site Manager for a fixed-term position based in Abu Dhabi from October to December 2026, with exact dates to be confirmed.

The Site Manager will be responsible for the overall coordination and management of site operations for a large-scale event, overseeing the planning, preparation, build-up, live event, and breakdown phases.

The role will manage day-to-day site activities and coordinate closely with Event Operations, Security, Logistics, Facilities, Health & Safety, contractors, suppliers, and venue representatives to ensure the site is delivered safely, efficiently, and in accordance with the approved plans and event schedule.

The Site Manager will act as a key point of contact for all site-related matters and will lead the site team during the operational period.

2. Key Responsibilities

• Lead the overall day-to-day management of the event site.
• Plan and coordinate site activities across build-up, live event, and breakdown phases.
• Manage and supervise site assistants, site coordinators, contractors, suppliers, and other site personnel.
• Coordinate with site operations, security, logistics, facilities, and health & safety teams.
• Manage site access, deliveries, loading/unloading, vehicle movements, and contractor access.
• Coordinate site infrastructure, temporary structures, offices, cabins, tents, storage, fencing, barriers, signage, and other site requirements.
• Monitor contractor and supplier progress against agreed schedules and site plans.
• Conduct regular site inspections and identify operational, safety, or logistical issues.
• Ensure all site activities are carried out in accordance with approved plans, schedules, and safety requirements.
• Maintain site schedules, action trackers, delivery schedules, permits, and relevant documentation.
• Act as the primary escalation point for site-related operational issues.
• Support emergency planning, evacuation procedures, and site safety protocols.
• Ensure all work areas are properly prepared ahead of key operational milestones and event opening.
• Coordinate the safe and efficient removal of temporary infrastructure and equipment during breakdown.
• Support the overall delivery of a safe, efficient, and fully operational event site

3. Qualifications & Requirements

• Minimum 5–7 years of experience in site management, event operations, , construction coordination, or a similar role.
• Proven experience managing large-scale events, sporting events, festivals, concerts, exhibitions, or major productions.
• Strong experience managing event build-up, live operations, and breakdown.
• Proven ability to manage multiple contractors, suppliers, and site teams simultaneously.
• Strong understanding of temporary event infrastructure, site logistics, access control, deliveries, and site operations.
• Good knowledge of event health and safety requirements and site procedures.
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Excellent organisational and time-management skills.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and site management/reporting tools.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and extended shifts during event periods.
• Ability to work in an active outdoor/site environment for extended periods.
• Fluent English is required; Arabic is an advantage.
• Previous experience in the UAE, GCC, or international major events is an advantage.
• Valid UAE driving licence is required.

3 month Contract

on Site

About Evolution

Evolution Services is a full-service event partner, delivering specialist solutions across Scenic, Technical, Site Services, Furniture, and Prop Shop. From our facilities in Dubai and Riyadh, we operate one of the region’s largest inventories—covering everything from technical production and site infrastructure to scenic fabrication, prop creation, and custom furniture rentals.

With in-house design, creative, and production teams, we support agencies, producers, and clients across the GCC—whether providing individual services or managing full event delivery. Our experienced teams combine creativity, functionality, and precision to bring standout experiences to life, no matter the scale.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need previous event industry experience?

Not always. While some specialist roles require relevant qualifications or industry experience, we also welcome applications from people with transferable skills, practical experience and a willingness to learn. Every application is considered on its own merits.

What types of roles are available at Evolution?

Our specialist companies recruit across a wide range of disciplines, including project management, event operations, scenic fabrication, carpentry, metalwork, technical production, lighting, audio visual, logistics, warehousing, furniture operations, administration, finance, HR, marketing and creative services. Opportunities vary throughout the year depending on project requirements and business growth.

Which Evolution companies could I work for?

Career opportunities may be available across Evolution Events, Evolution Scenic, Evolution Technical, Evolution Site Services, Evolution Furniture, Evolution Prop Shop, Evolution Table Art, Evolution Flight cases and other specialist businesses within the Evolution group. Depending on the role, some positions may also support multiple companies across the group.

Where are Evolution's offices and facilities located?

Evolution operates from major facilities in Dubai and Riyadh — including our 180,000 sq. ft. Dubai hub in Jebel Ali Industrial Area and our 160,000 sq. ft. facility in Riyadh — supporting projects throughout the UAE, Saudi Arabia and the wider GCC. Some positions are office-based, while others involve workshop, warehouse or on-site project environments.

What is it like to work at Evolution?

With over 280 team members and 1,000+ skillsets across the group, Evolution brings together specialists from every discipline of live event production under one roof. Our teams work collaboratively across departments, often supporting some of the largest and most technically complex events in the region — from concept through to on-site delivery.

Can I submit my CV even if there isn't a suitable vacancy advertised?

Yes. We're always interested in hearing from talented people. If your skills and experience match future opportunities within the Evolution group, our recruitment team may contact you when a suitable position becomes available.

Do you offer internships or graduate opportunities?

From time to time we offer internships, graduate positions and entry-level opportunities across different areas of the business. If you're interested in starting your career with Evolution, we'd encourage you to submit your CV and tell us about your interests.

What does the application process look like?

Applications are submitted online through our careers page. Our recruitment team reviews every submission against current and upcoming role requirements, and shortlisted candidates are contacted directly to discuss next steps, which may include an interview and, for some roles, a practical assessment.

Will I be contacted after submitting my application?

Every application is reviewed by our recruitment team. If your experience matches a current or future opportunity, we'll be in touch. Due to the volume of applications we receive, we're not always able to respond individually to every submission.

Do you support relocation or visa sponsorship?

Evolution support visa sponsorship and relocation for candidates joining us from outside the UAE or Saudi Arabia. Details are discussed directly with shortlisted candidates as part of the offer process.

Are there opportunities for career growth within the group?

Yes. Many of our team members progress across roles and specialist companies as they build experience, and we support ongoing training and development. Working across such a broad range of disciplines means there's often room to grow in a direction that fits your interests.

What qualities do you look for when recruiting?

Core skills and relevant experience are important, but so are attitude, teamwork, reliability and a commitment to delivering high-quality work. We're looking for people who enjoy solving problems, working collaboratively and taking pride in helping deliver successful projects.