Principal Consultant - Fire & Life Safety

About This Role

Job Description WSP in the Middle East are seeking a Principal Consultant– Fire & Life Safety(F&LS) to join our team in Riyadh. In this leadership role, you will consult regarding fire protection and life safety systems for large-scale projects throughout the region. You will develop fire and life safety strategies, manage client and stakeholder relationships, and ensure compliance with codes and standards of record, including the Saudi Building Code (SBC 201 and SBC 801), international codes, and standards (UAE, IBC, NFPA, BS, and others).

Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Provide technical and managerial leadership for fire and life safety projects across the region.
• Design Oversight: Consult the selection of fire and life safety systems, fire detection and alarm systems, water-based suppression systems, clean agent extinguishing systems, smoke control systems, and passive fire protection systems for complex projects. Maintain and cultivate a high standard of quality deliverables and communications.
• Compliance & Inspection: Ensure designs and installations comply with Saudi and international codes. Conduct audits and inspections.
• Risk Management: Direct fire risk assessments and hazard analyses. Develop mitigation strategies for high-profile projects.
• Testing & Commissioning: Oversee integrated testing and commissioning of fire and life safety systems to meet regulatory and design requirements.
• Client Engagement: Function as the primary point of contact for clients. Provide expert advice and ensure client satisfaction.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Coordinate with architects, stakeholders, contractors, and government authorities to ensure smooth project delivery.
• Team Development: Mentor and guide senior and junior consultants. Foster knowledge sharing and innovation in fire safety practices.
• Business Development: Support growth initiatives by contributing to proposals, attending client meetings, and representing WSP at industry events.
• Thought Leadership: Raise the profile of WSP’s Fire & Life Safety team through participation in conferences, publications, and professional forums.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, or related technical field (Fire Protection, Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Architecture or related field).
• 12–15 years of experience in fire life safety/protection engineering consulting, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of Saudi Building Code (SBC 201 and SBC 801), international codes, and standards (UAE, IBC, NFPA, BS, and others).
• Proven expertise in fire protection design, fire detection and alarm systems, smoke control systems, risk assessments, and compliance audits.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and client management skills.
• Professional license and/or certifications in fire protection (PE, CEng, CFPS or equivalent) are highly desirable.