Area Lead, Process Plant (Chemical & Reagents) at Wood - Saudi Arabia

Wood, the global leader in consulting, engineering, and project management across the energy and environmental sectors, is recruiting for a critical leadership position in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: Area Lead, Process Plant (Chemical & Reagents). This role presents a significant opportunity for experienced engineers to join a dynamic team working on some of the region's most complex and impactful projects.

Job Description & Key Responsibilities

The Area Lead will occupy a pivotal position in leading and directing the engineering teams responsible for the design, development, and oversight of chemical and reagent process plants within major projects. The focus will be on ensuring engineering excellence and compliance with the highest safety and quality standards.

Core responsibilities include:

• Leading and directing a multidisciplinary team of engineers and technicians working on chemical and reagent plant projects.
• Providing complete oversight of all engineering aspects for the designated process area, from initial design through to final delivery.
• Ensuring all designs and processes comply with agreed technical specifications and the highest global safety standards (e.g., OSHA and local Saudi standards).
• Close coordination with project managers, clients, and subcontractors to ensure alignment and achieve project objectives within budget and schedule.
• Reviewing and approving engineering drawings, design documents, and technical calculation reports.
• Identifying potential technical and operational risks and developing mitigation plans.
• Providing technical support during construction, installation, testing, and commissioning phases.
• Fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the team.

Qualifications & Requirements

Wood is seeking candidates with a proven track record in chemical engineering or related fields, coupled with demonstrated leadership capabilities.

Essential Requirements:

• A Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related engineering field. A Master's degree is a distinct advantage.
• A minimum of 10 years of hands-on experience in process engineering, with a strong focus on chemical, reagent, or processing plants.
• Proven leadership experience managing engineering teams on major projects, preferably within the oil & gas, energy, or petrochemical industries.
• In-depth knowledge of relevant international codes and standards (e.g., ASME, API, IEC).
• Experience working in an EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) project environment.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with all levels of management and clients.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities under pressure.
• Proficiency in written and spoken English. Knowledge of Arabic is an advantageous addition.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous experience working on projects within Saudi Arabia or the wider Gulf region.
• Familiarity with Saudi industrial control and safety regulations and authorities (e.g., WERA, Saudi Council of Engineers).
• Experience using specialized engineering modeling and design software.

Work Location & Benefits

The primary work location is Saudi Arabia, with potential assignment to various project sites as required. Wood offers a competitive work environment with a benefits package commensurate with global standards, reflecting the critical nature of this leadership role. (Note: Specific salary and benefits details will be discussed with qualified candidates during the interview process).

How to Apply

Applications for this position are accepted exclusively through Wood's official channels or the authorized job portal (Naukrigulf) that listed the vacancy. Interested candidates should prepare to submit:

1. An up-to-date, detailed resume in English, highlighting relevant experience and achievements on similar projects.
2. Copies of academic and professional certificates.
3. Contact details.

All applications will undergo rigorous review, and only qualified candidates will be contacted for the next stages of the selection process. Qualified Saudi nationals are strongly encouraged to apply.

Join Wood and be part of leading the engineering future in the heart of one of the world's most dynamic energy markets.