Senior MEP Manager

Role overview

MEP leadership and design

• Lead MEP strategy, planning, design coordination, execution and delivery across assigned developments.
• Provide technical leadership for mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, fire protection, ELV, BMS and other building services.
• Review designs for compliance with project requirements, codes, authority regulations and best practices; improve performance, energy efficiency, maintainability and reliability.
• Coordinate design with consultants, architects, structural engineers, interior designers and other stakeholders.
• Review drawings, specifications, calculations, technical submissions and shop drawings; resolve design clashes, constructability issues and spatial constraints.
• Manage changes, technical queries, value engineering and design optimization while protecting quality and functionality.

Construction, quality and handover

• Oversee MEP installation and construction for compliance with approved drawings, specifications, schedules and quality standards.
• Monitor milestones and critical path risks; coordinate with project directors, construction managers, consultants, contractors and specialist subcontractors.
• Sequence and integrate MEP work with civil, structural, architectural and interior fit-out activities; conduct site inspections and technical reviews.
• Establish quality assurance and control requirements and oversee inspection plans, material approvals, method statements and installation procedures.
• Lead testing, adjusting, balancing, commissioning, integrated systems testing and final acceptance.
• Ensure systems are operational and documented for handover; drive closure of defects, snags and outstanding technical issues.

Commercial, compliance and team management

• Review budgets, cost plans, tender documents, contractor proposals and subcontractor submissions; monitor variations, claims, procurement risks and cost overruns.
• Identify cost optimization opportunities without compromising safety, functionality, durability or quality; support technical evaluations of contractors, suppliers and manufacturers.
• Ensure compliance with UAE regulations, authority requirements, fire and life safety codes and utility standards; coordinate approvals, inspections, NOCs and commissioning requirements.
• Maintain effective relationships with consultants, contractors, developers, suppliers and authority representatives.
• Lead and mentor MEP engineers, design coordinators, site teams and specialist consultants; set responsibilities, expectations and priorities.
• Provide progress updates, risk assessments and technical recommendations to senior management.

Qualifications and experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
• At least 20 years of relevant MEP engineering and management experience in construction and real estate development.
• Extensive UAE experience and knowledge of local construction practices, authority approvals, regulations and industry standards.
• Mandatory consultancy background, including substantial experience with a reputable engineering or multidisciplinary consultancy.
• Experience managing MEP works on complex, high-value developments; luxury residential, high-rise, mixed-use, hospitality or other premium project experience is preferred.
• Experience managing MEP design consultants, main contractors, specialist subcontractors and multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong background in design management, construction supervision, technical coordination, testing, commissioning and handover.
• Experience with project budgets, procurement, contractor performance, variations and construction schedules.
• Strong knowledge of HVAC, electrical distribution, plumbing and drainage, fire protection, ELV, BMS and integrated building services.
• Familiarity with UAE codes, Civil Defence requirements, utility authority standards and international engineering practices.
• Professional engineering certification or chartered status is advantageous.