Construction Manager in Dubai

We're looking for an experienced and hands-on Construction Manager to lead the delivery of a high-complexity, high-end construction project in Dubai. This is a senior site-based position for someone with 10+ years of construction experience and a strong technical background across complex construction activities, particularly excavation, shoring, foundations, structural works, and large-scale site operations. You'll take ownership of the day-to-day construction delivery, working closely with the Project Manager, Head of Construction, consultants, subcontractors, and the wider international project team. We're looking for someone who can operate confidently at both a technical and managerial level — someone who understands what is happening on site, can anticipate construction risks, coordinate multiple stakeholders, and make decisions that keep the project moving without compromising quality, safety, or programme. Responsibilities • Lead and manage day-to-day construction activities across the project, ensuring delivery in accordance with approved drawings, specifications, programme, budget, and quality standards • Oversee complex site operations, including excavation, shoring, dewatering, foundations, structural works, and associated temporary works • Coordinate and supervise main contractors, subcontractors, consultants, specialist trades, and site teams • Review construction methodologies, sequencing, shop drawings, method statements, and technical submissions • Monitor progress against the construction programme and proactively identify delays, risks, and potential constraints • Work closely with the Project Manager and Head of Construction to develop and implement construction strategies and recovery plans where required • Conduct regular site inspections and ensure that works are executed in accordance with approved designs, specifications, and applicable UAE regulations • Take ownership of construction quality, identifying defects and coordinating corrective actions with contractors and consultants • Ensure compliance with Dubai/UAE building regulations, HSE requirements, and relevant construction standards • Coordinate site logistics, labour, plant, materials, deliveries, access, and sequencing to maintain efficient site operations • Monitor contractor performance and hold subcontractors accountable for programme, quality, safety, and agreed deliverables • Review and challenge technical and logistical solutions where necessary, proposing practical alternatives to resolve site constraints • Work closely with consultants, engineers, architects, and the design team to resolve technical issues and RFIs efficiently • Support cost control at site level and identify potential variations, risks, and opportunities before they impact the project • Attend progress meetings, coordination meetings, technical meetings, and contractor meetings as required • Maintain clear reporting on construction progress, risks, quality, safety, and programme • Act as a senior point of contact between the construction site and Utopia's wider project leadership team • Step in to support the Project Manager or Head of Construction with key construction decisions when required Requirements • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or a related field • Minimum of 10 years of professional construction experience, with significant experience in senior site or construction management positions • Strong experience managing complex construction projects from enabling works through structural and finishing stages • Demonstrated hands-on experience with excavation, shoring, dewatering, foundations, piling, and/or other complex substructure works • Proven experience coordinating major contractors, subcontractors, consultants, and multidisciplinary site teams • Experience managing projects in Dubai/UAE is strongly preferred, ideally including at least one project delivered through the full construction cycle • Strong background in high-end hospitality, luxury residential, mixed-use, commercial, or other high-complexity construction projects • Strong understanding of Dubai/UAE construction regulations, permitting requirements, HSE standards, and local construction practices • Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to manage contractors and challenge decisions when necessary • Proficiency in construction management and project software such as AutoCAD, MS Project, Primavera P6, Procore, Aconex, or similar platforms • Fluent English is required for communication with Utopia's international project and management teams • Previous experience delivering luxury hotels, resorts, ultra-luxury residential developments, or landmark commercial projects • Experience with large-scale excavation and basement/substructure packages • Experience working with international consultants and contractors • Post-graduate qualification in Construction Management, Project Management, or a related discipline • Previous experience managing projects with significant structural, architectural, and MEP coordination requirements Benefits • This opportunity is based on-site in Dubai, UAE, working closely with the team delivering the project • A senior position with significant responsibility and direct exposure to Utopia's international construction leadership • The opportunity to work on a high-complexity, high-end project in Dubai that will become a significant addition to your professional portfolio • A truly international team of architects, engineers, project managers, and construction professionals working to a high standard of quality • All tools and software required for the role are provided and kept up to date • The opportunity to take ownership of major construction activities from site mobilization through delivery Show more Show less