Senior Architect - Site
Summary
This role oversees all on-site architectural works, ensuring adherence to specifications and quality standards. Responsibilities include reviewing submittals, managing RFIs, coordinating teams, and conducting inspections, requiring a Bachelor's in Architecture and 15+ years of experience in the Middle East.
We are seeking an experienced and visionary Senior Architect - Site to join our dynamic team in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. In this pivotal role, you will oversee all architectural works on-site, ensuring strict adherence to contract documents, specifications, and quality standards. You will serve as a key liaison between the design team, contractors, and project management, driving excellence in architectural execution from inception through handover. This is an exceptional opportunity for a detail-oriented professional who thrives in collaborative environments and is committed to delivering innovative solutions on complex projects.
- Oversee and monitor all architectural works to ensure full conformance with contract documents, procedures manual, and project specifications
- Review, analyze, and process all architectural technical submittals with meticulous attention to detail
- Address and resolve Requests for Information (RFIs) related to architectural aspects in a timely and transparent manner
- Coordinate and supervise all architectural activities and operations across the project site
- Evaluate contractor's architectural change order proposals and provide clear, analytical recommendations to the Project Manager
- Lead the interdisciplinary coordination process, fostering collaborative relationships with other design disciplines and sub-consultants
- Review contractor claims related to architectural works and prepare comprehensive recommendations for the Project Manager
- Examine and validate contractor's project record documents relevant to architectural works
- Manage and mentor architectural inspectors to ensure consistent compliance with established quality standards
- Conduct thorough inspections of completed works and oversee start-up, testing, commissioning, and handover processes
- Sign off on completed architectural works, verifying that all documentation is complete and accurate
- Prepare detailed weekly planning reports and comprehensive progress reports
- Perform additional duties as assigned by the Project Manager to support project success
- Bachelor's Degree in Architecture
- Minimum 15 years of professional experience in the Middle East region
- 6-8 years of demonstrated experience working in a UAE or Middle East-based international consultancy environment
- Strong technical knowledge of exterior envelope details, material interfaces, and architectural systems
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word)
- Proven ability to review technical documentation and provide constructive, actionable feedback
- Comprehensive understanding of project specifications, contract requirements, and local authority standards
- Complete project lifecycle knowledge in the architectural discipline, from design inception through final handover
- Demonstrated expertise in architectural inspection, quality assurance, and commissioning processes
- Strong leadership and team management capabilities
- Experience managing architectural inspectors and coordinating multi-disciplinary teams
- Proficiency in handling change orders, RFIs, and contractor claims
- Excellent organizational and time management skills
- Analytical mindset with strong problem-solving abilities
- Proven track record of maintaining transparent communication and fostering collaborative relationships