Airport Design Manager - Hill International (Middle East) Ltd.

Hill International (Middle East) Ltd., a global leader in project management and claims consulting, is offering a distinguished career opportunity for highly experienced professionals to join its dynamic team in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as an Airport Design Manager. This role emerges as the Kingdom undergoes an unprecedented infrastructure boom and a transformative shift in its aviation sector, aligned with the ambitious Saudi Vision 2030.

Job Description & Key Responsibilities

The Airport Design Manager will hold a pivotal leadership position within the company's portfolio of mega-projects. This individual will be the primary authority overseeing all design aspects for airport projects, from initial conception through to final delivery. Core responsibilities include:

• Leadership & Supervision: Leading a multidisciplinary team of engineers, designers, and consultants to ensure design execution meets the highest international standards and best practices.
• Design Lifecycle Management: Full oversight of all airport project design phases, including master planning, detailed design, and the review/approval of drawings and specifications.
• Quality Assurance & Compliance: Ensuring all airport designs comply with local and international regulations, safety standards (such as ICAO), and specific client requirements.
• Coordination & Integration: Acting as the key liaison between the project owner, consultants, contractors, and relevant government authorities to ensure seamless integration of all design elements (civil, architectural, electrical, mechanical, technical systems).
• Budget & Schedule Management: Contributing to the preparation and control of design budgets, and ensuring adherence to critical project timelines.
• Risk Management: Identifying potential design-related risks early and developing mitigation plans.
• Value Engineering & Innovation: Proposing innovative and cost-effective design solutions without compromising required quality or functionality.

Qualifications & Requirements

To be a successful candidate for this leadership role, you must meet the following criteria:

• Educational Background: A Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a related engineering field from an accredited university. A Master’s degree will be a distinct advantage.
• Professional Experience: Minimum of 15 years of experience in airport design and/or project management, with a proven track record of leading design teams for major, complex airport projects (expansion or greenfield airport developments).
• Technical Knowledge: In-depth understanding of airport design standards and regulations (e.g., ICAO, IATA), international building codes, and best practices in planning and designing aviation facilities (runways, aprons, terminals, security & safety systems, ground handling systems).
• Leadership Skills: Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate large, multicultural teams in a high-pressure project environment.
• Organizational & Communication Skills: Excellent communication and negotiation skills (verbal and written) in English (Arabic is a strong plus), with superior ability to prepare technical reports and present to senior management and stakeholders.
• Professional Certifications: A recognized professional certification such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or equivalent will be highly regarded.

Benefits & Compensation

Hill International offers a stimulating and competitive work environment with a benefits package commensurate with this leadership role. This is expected to include (but is not limited to) a competitive monthly salary, housing and transportation allowances, comprehensive medical insurance, and annual leave.

How to Apply

Qualified and ambitious professionals who meet the above criteria are encouraged to apply for this exceptional opportunity. Please prepare a comprehensive, up-to-date CV in English, highlighting relevant airport project experience and leadership achievements.

Note: Given the strategic nature of projects in the Kingdom, candidates currently residing in Saudi Arabia or available for immediate relocation are preferred. This position is advertised through accredited platforms such as Naukrigulf.

Join Hill International and play a key role in shaping the future of aviation infrastructure in one of the world's most dynamic markets.