Associate / Associate Director – Technical Architect

Job Description WSP in the Middle East are seeking a highly accomplished Associate / Associate Director – Technical Architect to join our Abu Dhabi team and lead the technical delivery of major multidisciplinary projects across the UAE and wider Middle East region. The Associate / Associate Director – Technical Architect will provide technical leadership across all stages of design and project delivery, ensuring architectural excellence, compliance, constructability, and quality. The role requires a seasoned professional with extensive experience delivering large-scale, complex developments in the Middle East and a proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and engage with senior stakeholders. Responsibilities • Lead the technical architectural design and delivery of major projects from concept through construction. • Provide expert guidance on building systems, materials, detailing, coordination, and technical compliance. • Review and approve architectural deliverables to ensure alignment with project requirements, quality standards, and local regulations. • Coordinate closely with structural, MEP, landscape, and specialist disciplines to ensure integrated design solutions. • Lead technical reviews, design audits, and quality assurance processes. • Ensure compliance with UAE building regulations, international codes, and client standards. • Provide technical mentoring and leadership to architects and project teams. • Support project directors and design leads in managing programme, risk, resources, and technical performance. • Interface with clients, authorities, contractors, and key stakeholders throughout project delivery. • Contribute to business development activities, proposals, and strategic client engagements where required. • Champion innovation, sustainability, and digital design methodologies across projects. Qualifications • Bachelor's or master’s degree in architecture. • Minimum 15 years' professional experience, with significant exposure to the Middle East market. • Proven track record delivering large-scale mixed-use, commercial, hospitality, residential, aviation, cultural, healthcare, or public sector projects. • Strong technical expertise in architectural detailing, specifications, building systems, and construction methodologies. • In-depth understanding of UAE authority approvals and building regulations. • Demonstrated experience leading multidisciplinary design coordination. • Strong knowledge of international design and construction standards. • Excellent stakeholder management and client-facing skills. • Strong communication and leadership capabilities. Preferred • Chartered Architect, RIBA, AIA, ARB, or equivalent professional accreditation. • Experience working within leading international consultancy environments. • Knowledge of BIM delivery processes and digital design platforms. • Experience leading teams within complex, fast-paced project environments. What You'll Bring • Strategic technical leadership. • Strong commercial and project delivery awareness. • Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making abilities. • A collaborative approach with the ability to influence senior stakeholders. • Commitment to quality, innovation, and design excellence. Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all. Join our close-knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact. Our global team includes more than 69,000 employees, working together to make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world. With us, you can. Apply today. Show more Show less