Roads Design Lead - 100% (m/f) With GCC experience.

About This Role

ARX is a global network of specialists in engineering, design, and architecture. Our team offers 360° consulting, project management, and technical services in:

airports, bridges, buildings, cableways,

digital innovation, environment, equipment,

geology, geotechnics, hydropower, metros,

nuclear plants, oil & gas, pipelines, ports,

railways, river engineering, roads, traffic,

tunnels, and water/wastewater treatment.

With offices across Europe, North and South America, Asia, Africa, and Oceania, our agile task force combines global expertise with local know-how. The result is our uniquely "glocal" approach, which allows us to meet the specific needs of each community while incorporating international best practices. At ARX, smart minds strive for a sustainable future, transforming communities one innovative project at a time.

People are the heart and soul of ARX. We are a home for innovators, visionaries, and experts to develop talents, launch careers, and collaborate with fellow specialists. ARX values individuals. Believing their brilliance and determination will provide solutions to tomorrow's challenges, we welcome professionals who will both benefit from and enrich our team.

ARX, marks a significant expansion into the Middle East with its offices in UAE and KSA. This underscores our dedication to innovation and engineering excellence, bolstering our position in the dynamic GCC market.

For our office in Dubai, we are looking for

Roads Design Lead - 100% (m/f) With GCC experience.

We are seeking an accomplished and highly experienced Roads & Highway Design Lead to spearhead our design efforts for critical infrastructure projects within the GCC region. This is a pivotal role for a visionary leader with a deep understanding of road and highway design, keen strategic insight, and proven experience navigating the unique regulatory landscape of the GCC region.

The ideal candidate will possess a minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in the comprehensive design and alignment of roads and highways, with a substantial track record of successfully delivering large-scale infrastructure projects. Crucially, a minimum of 5 years of this experience must be gained within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, with a significant portion specifically in UAE. You will demonstrate a profound understanding of technical aspects, industry best practices, and the strategic implications of design choices.

Key Responsibilities

As the Roads & Highway Design Lead, you will be responsible for:

• Lead and direct the planning, design, and delivery of complex road and highway projects from conception through to completion, ensuring alignment with project goals, budgets, and timelines from a consultancy standpoint.
• Develop and implement design strategies and methodologies that optimise efficiency, quality, and compliance with all relevant local (e.g., RTA, etc) and international standards (e.g., AASHTO, DMRB).
• Provide expert technical guidance and strategic input during all project phases, including feasibility studies, preliminary design, detailed design, and construction support.
• Oversee the development of comprehensive design drawings, specifications, technical reports, and cost estimates for major road and highway projects.
• Implement robust quality control processes and conduct rigorous technical reviews to ensure the accuracy, integrity, and compliance of all design deliverables.
• Drive the adoption and proficiency in advanced design software, including but not limited to Civil 3D, AutoCAD, InfraWorks, MicroStation, OpenRoads Designer, and traffic modelling software (e.g., PTV Vissim/Visum).
• Mentor, guide, and develop a team of civil engineers and design professionals, fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Conduct performance reviews, identify training needs, and support the professional growth of team members.
• Allocate resources effectively and manage workload distribution within the design team to ensure project deadlines are met.
• Act as the primary technical point of contact for clients, government authorities (e.g., RTA, Municipalities), consultants, and contractors, ensuring effective communication and resolution of design-related issues.
• Lead discussions and presentations of design concepts and solutions to various stakeholders, obtaining necessary approvals and buy-in.
• Collaborate proactively with multidisciplinary teams including project managers, urban planners, structural engineers, and environmental specialists to ensure integrated project delivery.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a closely related field from a recognised university. A master’s degree is highly preferred.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in road and highway design, with a strong emphasis on large-scale infrastructure projects.
• At least 5 years of demonstrable experience working within the GCC region, with specific, in-depth knowledge of UAE road design standards, regulations, and approval processes.
• Proven experience in a leadership or lead engineer role managing design teams and complex projects.
• Expert-level proficiency in industry-standard design software, including Civil 3D, AutoCAD, and other relevant applications. Experience with BIM methodologies (e.g., OpenRoads Designer) and traffic simulation software is a significant advantage.
• In-depth knowledge of local (UAE) and international road design standards, specifications, and best practices.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal abilities, with a proven capacity to influence and negotiate with diverse stakeholders.

We Offer:

• Opportunity to collaborate with a forward-thinking, synergistic, and innovative team.
• Exposure to cutting-edge projects driving Middle East / North African regions development.
• Personalized professional growth and developmental avenues tailored to your career aspirations.

If you would you like to join our highly motivated and very successful team, please send us your complete application!