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

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