Cinema Architecture

Alfanar; Riyadh; On-site; SAR 250,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering consultancy in Saudi Arabia is seeking a highly skilled Cinema Architect to lead the design and development of cinema projects. In this pivotal role, you will manage the project cycle from concept through to construction, ensuring high technical standards and collaboration with multiple teams. The ideal candidate should have over 12 years of specialized experience in cinema design and strong proficiency in architectural tools like AutoCAD and Revit.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits

Opportunities for professional development

Friendly and positive work environment

Qualifications

• 12+ years of progressive experience in cinema or entertainment architectural design.
• Proficient in architectural design tools and BIM workflows.
• Strong knowledge of cinema technical components such as screens and acoustic panels.

Responsibilities

• Lead architectural design for cinema projects from concept to completion.
• Ensure compliance with international codes and standards.
• Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams for technical integration.

Skills

Cinema planning expertise

Auditorium design

Acoustic coordination

Visitor flow optimization

High-end interior design

Team leadership

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Architecture Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

SketchUp

Job description

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DAR Engineering, a leading design & engineering consulting organization in Saudi Arabia engaged in Power Generation, Electrical Transmission & Distribution, Health Care & High Rise Buildings

About the Job:

We are looking for a highly skilled and experienced Cinema Architect to join our dynamic team. In this senior role, you will lead the architectural design and development of cinema projects, including multiplexes, entertainment venues, and specialized theater environments. You will oversee the full project cycle—from concept design through IFC—ensuring technical excellence, compliance with international standards, and seamless coordination with multidisciplinary teams. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in cinema planning, auditorium design, acoustics coordination, and visitor flow optimization.

• Lead architectural design for cinema projects from concept, schematic, and detailed design through Issued for Construction (IFC) stage.
• Develop and review complete architectural documentation including:
  • Concept layouts, zoning, and spatial planning
  • Auditorium seating layouts and sightline analysis
  • Acoustic interface requirements with MEP and ELV teams
  • Detailed drawings: GA plans, sections, elevations, fit-out details, interior packages
  • Specialized cinema areas such as projection rooms, AV rooms, BOH, F&B areas, ticketing, lobby, and VIP suites
• Ensure compliance with relevant international codes and standards such as IBC, NFPA, ADA, SBC, and cinema-specific guidelines (Dolby, IMAX, THX requirements).
• Coordinate with structural, MEP, acoustics, theming, and interior design teams for seamless technical integration.
• Review and approve vendor/specialist submittals including:
  • Acoustic treatments:
    • Specialized seating
    • Screen structures
    • Projection systems and equipment

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture Engineer.
• +12 years of progressive experience, with strong specialization in cinema or entertainment architectural design.
• Auditorium design and sightline optimization
• Acoustic coordination principles
• High-end cinema interior design and customer experience planning
• Building codes applicable to assembly and entertainment spaces
• Strong knowledge of cinema technical components (screens, projectors, acoustic panels, raking structures, seating systems).
• Proficiency in architectural design tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and visualization tools. Experience with BIM workflows is an advantage.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and technical decision-making capabilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with experience coordinating with clients, consultants, and contractors.
• Proven ability to lead teams and deliver high-quality projects within deadlines.
• Proficiency in English (spoken and written) is required.

Knowledge and Functional Competencies:

• Strong knowledge of bill of quantities (BOQ) preparation and integration with cost estimation teams.
• Familiarity with international architectural and cost control standards.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong collaboration skills across departments and multidisciplinary teams.

What We Offer:

• We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, as well as opportunities for professional development, continuous learning and growth, and career advancement.
• Work with diverse and talented professionals from various backgrounds and colleagues, all guided by our Leadership Model.
• Work in a friendly environment, where everyone shares positive vibes and is excited about our future.

DAR Engineering is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, age, marital status, gender identity, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Thank you for considering a career with us. We appreciate all applications; however, only candidates selected for further evaluation will be contacted. We encourage you to regularly check for updates and explore future opportunities with DAR Engineering. Best of luck!

Company Description:

DAR Engineering is a leading multidisciplinary consultancy firm providing design, architecture, engineering, project management, construction management and planning services across a broad range of sectors. We assist national governments, international organizations, and private sector companies by delivering comprehensive solutions with global expertise.

For more information about DAR, please visit https://www.dar-engineering.com