Technical Design Director (Site-Based, Landmark Project), 15+ Years’ Experience

RMJM RED for Huafa Group; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading architectural firm in Abu Dhabi seeks an experienced Technical Design Director to provide on-site technical leadership for a landmark project. The ideal candidate should possess over 15 years of experience in technical design and construction supervision. Responsibilities include resolving design conflicts, conducting quality inspections, and collaborating with contractors to ensure project success. Strong expertise in façade systems and BIM tools is essential for this role.

Qualifications

• 15+ years in technical design and construction supervision, particularly on large-scale projects.
• Strong problem-solving capabilities required for on-site decision making.
• Familiarity with local building codes and inspection processes needed.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical liaison between design team, contractors, and clients.
• Conduct site inspections and ensure compliance with quality standards.
• Identify and mitigate technical risks related to construction.

Skills

On-site problem-solving

Façade systems expertise

Structural interfaces knowledge

MEP coordination

Construction techniques knowledge

BIM coordination

Education

Chartered Engineer / Architect (PE, RIBA, AIA, or equivalent)

Tools

BIM / Revit

AutoCAD

Navisworks

Construction management software

Job description

Overview

Technical Design Director (Site-Based, Landmark Project), 15+ Years’ Experience. RMJM is seeking to appoint the Technical Design Director – Technical Advisory (Site-Based, Landmark Project), to support the continued growth of our Abu Dhabi Studio.

Responsibilities

• On-Site Technical Leadership
  • Act as the lead technical liaison between the design team, contractors, and client representatives, ensuring adherence to approved drawings and specifications.
  • Resolve construction-related design conflicts in real time, providing practical solutions without compromising design integrity.
  • Oversee shop drawings, material submittals, and RFIs, ensuring compliance with design intent and project requirements.
• Quality Control & Compliance
  • Conduct regular site inspections to verify workmanship, materials, and systems meet technical and quality standards.
  • Ensure all construction activities comply with local regulations, international codes, and sustainability targets (e.g., LEED, BREEAM).
  • Lead defects prevention and resolution, coordinating with contractors to implement corrective actions.
• Constructability & Value Engineering
  • Review and advise on construction methodologies, sequencing, and logistics to optimize efficiency and safety.
  • Collaborate with contractors to identify value engineering opportunities while maintaining design excellence.
  • Assess temporary works, structural interfaces, and MEP coordination to mitigate risks.
  • Identify and escalate critical technical risks (e.g., structural, façade, waterproofing) that could impact schedule or budget.
  • Prepare daily / weekly technical reports for project leadership, documenting progress, issues, and resolutions.
  • Support the testing & commissioning process, ensuring systems perform as designed.

Qualifications and Skills

• Chartered Engineer / Architect (PE, RIBA, AIA, or equivalent) preferred.
• 15+ years in technical design and construction supervision, with experience on large-scale, landmark projects (high-rise, mixed-use, or cultural developments preferred).
• Strong background in on-site problem-solving, with expertise in façade systems, structural interfaces, MEP coordination, and waterproofing (if relevant to site conditions).
• In-depth knowledge of construction techniques, BIM coordination, and modern delivery methods (design-build, fast-track, etc.).
• Familiarity with local building codes, permits, and inspection processes.
• Proficiency in BIM / Revit, AutoCAD, Navisworks, and construction management software.

Working Conditions

• On-site based (Abu Dhabi), Full-time, Monday to Saturday