Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: INTECH Process Automation

Location: Al Khobar, Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia

Job Type: Permanent

Category: Engineering & Design Operations (Process Automation, Control Systems, Instrumentation)

Date Posted: June 10, 2026

Experience Level: 12+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the technical delivery and end-to-end design execution for critical process automation projects, with a strong emphasis on Control Systems, Instrumentation, DCS, PLC, and SCADA systems.

• Manage a team of engineering and design professionals to ensure the highest quality of technical deliverables, adhering to stringent industry standards and client specifications within the oil and gas sector.

• Oversee the entire engineering design lifecycle, from conceptualization and detailed design to implementation support, ensuring seamless integration of automation solutions.

• Drive process optimization and efficiency within the design department, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement in engineering methodologies and documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically for a Design Manager focused on process automation within the oil and gas industry, requiring deep technical expertise in control and instrumentation systems, and a strong background in managing complex engineering projects, especially EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) projects. The emphasis on Saudi Aramco and ADNOC projects indicates a need for familiarity with their specific standards and project execution environments.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the technical design and execution of projects involving control systems, Distributed Control Systems (DCS), Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) packages, and instrumentation packages.

• Proactively identify, analyze, and resolve complex engineering challenges by adapting and modifying established engineering techniques, developing innovative solutions, and preparing detailed technical drawings, schematics, and diagrams.

• Ensure all design-related tasks are completed within allocated project timelines and budgets, maintaining close coordination with other departments (e.g., procurement, construction, commissioning) to uphold project schedules and overarching goals.

• Serve as the primary technical liaison, effectively communicating essential project information to the engineering team, stakeholders, and clients. This includes coordinating expert input, facilitating problem-solving sessions, and conducting technical reviews.

• Contribute significantly to project meetings and progress reports by providing deep technical insights, meticulously reviewing open issues and action items, and promptly escalating any impediments to project completion.

• Uphold and enforce adherence to all design outputs with relevant international industry standards, client specifications, and the company's robust Quality Management System (QMS).

• Collaborate closely with clients to thoroughly understand their technical requirements, provide regular, transparent updates on design progress, and ensure complete satisfaction with all technical deliverables.

• Lead and mentor a team of engineers and designers, fostering their professional development and ensuring the consistent quality and efficiency of the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, project management, and team mentorship. The emphasis on "technical delivery" and "engineering problems" suggests a hands-on approach rather than purely administrative management. The mention of specific systems like Schneider Foxboro DCS and Triconex ESD Systems points to a need for deep operational knowledge in these areas.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (Electrical, Instrumentation, or a closely related field) is mandatory.

• A Master’s Degree in a relevant engineering discipline is strongly preferred. Experience:

• A minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in engineering design, with a specialized focus on control systems design and instrumentation.

• Demonstrated experience in managing Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) projects, with a significant advantage for candidates who have worked on projects for major oil and gas entities like Saudi Aramco or ADNOC.

• Proven track record in managing the design and engineering of control systems, DCS/PLC/SCADA packages, instrumentation packages, and field instrumentation.

• Substantial experience in resolving complex engineering challenges through innovative solutions and detailed technical analysis in high-stakes environments.

• Extensive experience working on oil and gas EPC projects, with a demonstrated ability to deliver high-quality technical designs within demanding schedules. Required Skills:

• Deep technical understanding and hands-on experience with Distributed Control Systems (DCS), Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), Emergency Shutdown (ESD) systems, and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems.

• Expertise in the design of control systems and DCS/PLC/SCADA packages, specifically including Schneider Foxboro DCS and Triconex ESD Systems.

• Proficiency in preparing detailed technical drawings, schematics, and diagrams using industry-standard software.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to adapt standard engineering techniques and recommend innovative solutions.

• Proven ability to manage design deliverables effectively within project schedules, ensuring timely communication and seamless coordination between cross-functional departments.

• Proficiency in design and engineering documentation, including the creation and management of technical documentation.

• Familiarity with international industry standards and best practices for DCS, PLC, and SCADA systems, as well as oil and gas project regulations. Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD and SolidWorks.

• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or other relevant project management certifications.

• Experience with Quality Management Systems (QMS) implementation and adherence.

• Familiarity with engineering documentation management systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for specific systems (Schneider Foxboro DCS, Triconex ESD) and client experience (Saudi Aramco, ADNOC) is critical. Candidates should highlight projects where they've managed the full lifecycle of these systems and navigated the specific requirements of these large organizations. The combination of technical depth and project management experience at this level is key.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase comprehensive project documentation for at least 2-3 significant oil and gas EPC projects, specifically focusing on control systems and instrumentation design.

• Include examples of detailed technical drawings, schematics, and system diagrams (e.g., P&IDs, loop diagrams, logic diagrams) that demonstrate proficiency with systems like DCS, PLC, SCADA, and ESD.

• Present case studies of engineering challenges encountered and the innovative solutions implemented, highlighting the process of technical analysis and adaptation of engineering techniques.

• Demonstrate experience in managing design deliverables within strict project schedules and budgets, potentially including examples of project plans or progress reports.

• Provide evidence of adherence to Quality Management Systems (QMS) and international standards in design outputs. Process Documentation:

• Include examples of workflow design and optimization strategies for the engineering design process, specifically for control systems and instrumentation projects.

• Show evidence of implementing or improving processes for system implementation and automation, detailing how efficiency was enhanced.

• Present examples of how design processes were measured and analyzed for performance, including metrics related to quality, timeliness, and cost-effectiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, the portfolio should emphasize leadership in process execution and team management, not just individual technical contributions. Examples of how the candidate improved design workflows, managed design risks, and ensured quality across a team are crucial. Quantifiable results are highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the extensive experience required (12+ years), specialized industry focus (oil and gas automation), and location (Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia), a highly competitive salary package is expected.

• Based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers with similar expertise in the GCC region, the estimated annual salary range could be between SAR 400,000 to SAR 650,000 (approximately USD 106,000 to USD 173,000). This range is contingent on specific experience, qualifications, and the negotiation capabilities of the candidate. Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage for the employee and dependents.

• Generous paid time off (vacation and public holidays) aligned with Saudi labor laws.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses and annual increments.

• Relocation assistance and housing allowance, common for expatriate roles in Saudi Arabia.

• Transportation allowance or company-provided transport.

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and certification in advanced automation technologies and project management.

• Contribution to a retirement or pension scheme as per local regulations. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week, often with a Saturday to Wednesday or Sunday to Thursday schedule, common in Saudi Arabia.

• Flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines, including occasional overtime or adjusted schedules, especially during critical project phases or for urgent client requests.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on available data for senior engineering management roles in the oil and gas sector within Saudi Arabia. Benefits are typical for a permanent, on-site role in this region, especially for specialized technical positions. The exact package will depend on the company's internal policies and the candidate's negotiation.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Process Automation, Engineering Services, Oil & Gas Technology. INTECH Process Automation operates within a critical sector that demands precision, reliability, and innovation. The company likely engages in providing advanced automation solutions, engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services, and project management for large-scale industrial facilities, particularly in the energy sector.

Company Size: INTECH Process Automation is likely a medium to large-sized enterprise, given the scope of projects typically managed by a Design Manager with 12+ years of experience and the mention of international clients like Saudi Aramco and ADNOC. This size suggests a structured organization with established processes and a significant operational footprint.

Founded: Information on the founding date was not directly provided, but the company's established presence in process automation and its engagement with major industry players suggest it has a history of successful project delivery and a solid reputation built over several years.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely lead a dedicated team of Control Systems Engineers, Instrumentation Engineers, Designers, and Drafters. This team is a core component of the project execution unit.

• The reporting structure typically places the Design Manager under a Project Director or Engineering Manager, with direct reporting lines from the engineers and designers within their team.

• Cross-functional collaboration is paramount, involving close interaction with Project Managers, Procurement Specialists, Construction Teams, Commissioning Engineers, and Client Representatives to ensure project success. Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is essential, utilizing technical data, performance metrics, and project feedback to inform design choices and process improvements.

• Workflow planning and optimization strategies are central to the role, focusing on streamlining the design process, reducing lead times, and enhancing overall efficiency.

• Automation and efficiency practices are key, leveraging technology and best practices to improve design accuracy, reduce manual effort, and ensure timely delivery of project milestones.

Company Website: www.intechww.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on process automation and its engagement with major oil and gas clients imply a culture of technical excellence, adherence to safety and quality standards, and a results-oriented approach to project delivery. The team likely comprises highly specialized professionals.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role sits at a senior management level within the engineering and design function. It requires a blend of deep technical expertise in automation and instrumentation, coupled with significant project and team management experience. The Design Manager is responsible for the technical integrity and successful execution of complex engineering projects, directly impacting project profitability and client satisfaction. This level demands strategic thinking, problem-solving acumen, and leadership capabilities.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager typically reports to a higher-level engineering management position, such as an Engineering Director, Head of Engineering, or Project Director. They, in turn, manage a team of engineers and designers, overseeing their technical work, performance, and professional development. Collaboration with Project Managers is also a key aspect of the reporting structure, ensuring alignment between technical deliverables and project objectives.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role has a profound impact on the company's operational success and revenue generation.

• Technical Excellence: Ensuring high-quality, robust, and efficient designs directly translates to reliable plant operations for the client, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity, which is crucial in the oil and gas industry.

• Cost Efficiency: Effective design management, including proactive problem-solving and efficient resource allocation, directly controls project costs and contributes to profitability.

• Client Satisfaction: Delivering projects on time, within budget, and to client specifications builds strong client relationships, leading to repeat business and positive referrals.

• Risk Mitigation: Thorough technical reviews and adherence to standards reduce engineering risks, preventing costly rework, safety incidents, or project delays.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific advanced automation technologies (e.g., AI in process control, cybersecurity for ICS) or specific client requirements (e.g., advanced Saudi Aramco standards).

• Project Leadership: Transition into roles such as Project Director, overseeing larger, more complex multi-disciplinary projects, or Program Manager, managing a portfolio of related projects.

• Engineering Management: Move into broader engineering management roles, overseeing entire engineering departments, setting strategic direction, and driving technological innovation across the organization.

• Business Development: Leverage technical and project experience to contribute to business development efforts, client relationship management, and proposal development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth trajectory for a Design Manager in this sector is typically upward, leading to broader project management responsibilities or higher-level engineering leadership roles. The company's focus on EPC projects suggests opportunities to manage increasingly complex and larger-scale initiatives.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is primarily based in a professional office environment, likely within INTECH Process Automation's main engineering hub in Al Khobar. This setting is designed for collaboration, technical work, and client meetings. It is not typically a manufacturing floor or field site, though site visits for project-specific activities may be required.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Al Khobar, a major industrial and business hub in Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province. This strategic location provides proximity to major oil and gas clients and a well-developed infrastructure for engineering firms. Specific office addresses would be provided upon inquiry or during the application process.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be collaborative, with open-plan areas for design teams interspersed with meeting rooms equipped for technical discussions and client presentations.

• Access to necessary operations tools and technology is a given, including high-performance workstations, specialized design software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, simulation tools), and robust network infrastructure for data management and communication.

• Opportunities for interaction with operations teams, project managers, and fellow senior engineers are frequent, fostering a dynamic and knowledge-sharing environment essential for complex project execution.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule will be full-time, Monday to Friday (or Sunday to Thursday), with approximately 40 hours per week. However, the demanding nature of EPC projects in the oil and gas sector often necessitates flexibility, with potential for occasional overtime or extended hours to meet critical project deadlines, client demands, or respond to urgent technical issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical for a senior engineering role in a major industrial region, balancing focused technical work with collaborative project execution and client interaction. Flexibility in working hours is a common expectation in this sector.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess alignment with the core requirements, particularly the 12+ years of experience, specific system knowledge (DCS, PLC, SCADA, ESD), and EPC project management experience with key clients like Saudi Aramco or ADNOC.

• Technical Interview: This will likely involve in-depth technical discussions covering your expertise in control systems and instrumentation design, problem-solving approaches for complex engineering challenges, and familiarity with relevant industry standards and software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks). Expect questions about specific projects where you managed design teams and technical deliverables.

• Managerial/Leadership Interview: Focus on your experience leading engineering teams, mentoring junior staff, managing project schedules and budgets, and your approach to quality management and client communication. Behavioral questions assessing your leadership style, conflict resolution skills, and ability to drive results will be prominent.

• Portfolio Presentation: You may be asked to present a selection of your most relevant work from your portfolio, detailing your role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the impact on project outcomes. This is an opportunity to showcase your technical depth and project management capabilities.

• Final Interview: A discussion with senior leadership (e.g., Engineering Director, HR) to assess overall fit with the company culture, long-term career aspirations, and final confirmation of your suitability for the Design Manager role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 2-3 projects that best represent your leadership in control systems and instrumentation design for EPC projects in the oil and gas sector. Prioritize projects involving Saudi

Aramco or ADNOC if possible.

• Structure Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline:

  • Project Scope & Objectives
  • Your Specific Role & Responsibilities
  • Key Technical Challenges Encountered
  • Innovative Solutions and Design Approaches Implemented
  • Team Management & Coordination Strategies
  • Project Outcomes (e.g., on-time delivery, cost savings, quality improvements, client satisfaction)

• Highlight Metrics: Quantify your achievements whenever possible. Use data to demonstrate the impact of your design decisions and management efforts (e.g., percentage reduction in design iterations, adherence to schedule targets, successful implementation of complex systems).

• Showcase Process Improvement: If your portfolio includes examples of process optimization within the design department, highlight these clearly. This demonstrates your ability to improve efficiency beyond individual project execution.

• Visual Clarity: Ensure drawings and diagrams are clear, well-annotated, and representative of high-quality work.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss hypothetical engineering challenges related to DCS/PLC/SCADA system integration, instrumentation selection, or troubleshooting complex automation issues. Think about how you would approach these systematically.

• Leadership Scenarios: Anticipate questions about managing underperforming team members, resolving conflicts between engineers, motivating a team under pressure, and handling client escalations.

• Process Optimization: Consider how you would improve the design process in a new environment. Think about implementing new tools, refining workflows, or enhancing quality control measures.

• Company Research: Understand INTECH Process Automation's recent projects, values, and its position in the market. Tailor your responses to demonstrate how your skills and experience align with their strategic objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily scrutinize both technical proficiency and leadership capabilities. A strong, well-documented portfolio that demonstrates quantifiable achievements in managing complex automation projects is crucial for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• DCS/PLC/SCADA/ESD Systems: Deep expertise with specific platforms is essential, particularly Schneider Foxboro DCS and Triconex ESD Systems. Familiarity with other major vendors (e.g., Siemens, Honeywell, Emerson) is also highly beneficial.

• CAD Software: Proficiency in AutoCAD for drafting technical drawings, schematics, and diagrams. Experience with 3D modeling software like SolidWorks for design visualization and integration is a strong plus.

• Engineering Documentation Software: Tools for managing technical documentation, specifications, and design reports (e.g., document control systems, EDMS).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Project Management Software: Tools for project scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6).

• Data Analysis Tools: While not the primary focus, an understanding of how design data feeds into performance analysis is useful. This could include basic Excel analysis or familiarity with BI tools if design data is integrated into dashboards.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate comprehensive technical reports for clients and internal stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM (Customer Relationship Management): While not directly managing sales, understanding how design deliverables impact client relationships managed through CRM systems can be advantageous.

• Integration Tools: Understanding how different automation systems and software tools integrate is important for designing cohesive solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis is on specialized engineering and design software. Proficiency in specific DCS/PLC/SCADA platforms is non-negotiable, alongside core CAD tools. Project management software is also critical for the operational aspect of the role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Technical Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality, robust, and efficient engineering designs that meet or exceed industry standards and client expectations. This translates to reliable plant operations for clients.

• Safety and Compliance: An unwavering dedication to safety in design, ensuring all solutions comply with stringent oil and gas industry regulations and company safety protocols.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment where engineers and designers work together seamlessly, share knowledge, and support each other to achieve project goals.

• Innovation and Continuous Improvement: Encouraging a mindset of seeking new and better ways to solve engineering challenges, optimize processes, and adopt new technologies to enhance design outcomes.

• Client Focus: Prioritizing client needs and satisfaction by understanding their requirements, maintaining open communication, and delivering solutions that add tangible value.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The Design Manager must actively foster strong working relationships with Project Management, Procurement, Construction, Commissioning, and Sales/Business Development teams. This ensures a holistic approach to project delivery.

• Process Review and Feedback: A culture of regular design reviews, peer feedback sessions, and post-project analysis is encouraged to identify lessons learned and drive continuous improvement in design methodologies.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the team to share technical expertise, best practices, and lessons learned through internal training sessions, workshops, or knowledge management platforms. This is vital for developing a skilled and adaptable engineering workforce.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely emphasizes rigor, precision, and accountability due to the critical nature of the oil and gas industry. Teamwork and client focus are paramount for successful project execution.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Projects: Overseeing multiple large-scale EPC projects simultaneously, each with unique technical requirements, tight deadlines, and significant budget constraints.

• Technical Problem Solving: Addressing unforeseen and complex engineering issues that arise during the design phase, requiring innovative solutions that balance technical feasibility, cost, and schedule.

• Stakeholder Management: Effectively communicating and coordinating with diverse stakeholders, including clients, internal teams, vendors, and regulatory bodies, each with potentially conflicting priorities.

• Keeping Pace with Technology: Ensuring the design team is up-to-date with the latest advancements in control systems, instrumentation, and design software, and integrating these effectively into projects.

• Talent Development: Attracting, retaining, and developing highly skilled engineering talent in a competitive market, and effectively mentoring junior engineers to grow into senior roles.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Certifications: Pursuing specialized certifications in project management (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2), specific automation technologies, or industry standards relevant to oil and gas.

• Leadership Training: Participating in management and leadership development programs to enhance skills in team motivation, strategic planning, and organizational development.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Attending key industry events to stay abreast of new technologies, best practices, and network with peers and potential partners.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gaining experience in related project phases such as procurement, commissioning, or even client-side project management to broaden understanding of the project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to managing large engineering projects in a high-stakes industry. Growth opportunities are geared towards expanding leadership scope and technical mastery.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex control system or instrumentation design challenge you faced on an oil and gas EPC project. How did you approach it, what was your solution, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your technical analysis, problem-solving process, and ability to adapt techniques.)

• "How do you ensure that design deliverables for projects like those for Saudi Aramco or ADNOC meet their stringent quality and technical requirements?" (Highlight your understanding of client-specific standards, QMS, and quality assurance processes.)

• "Imagine a situation where your design team is falling behind schedule due to unforeseen technical issues. What steps would you take to get the project back on track while maintaining quality and budget?" (Demonstrate your project management, risk mitigation, and team leadership skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about INTECH Process Automation and our role in the process automation industry, particularly in the oil and gas sector?" (Research the company's website, recent news, and project portfolio.)

• "How do you foster a collaborative environment within your engineering team and with other departments like project management and procurement?" (Provide specific examples of your collaboration strategies.)

• "How do you measure the success of your design team and the impact of your work on project profitability and client satisfaction?" (Focus on metrics, KPIs, and ROI demonstration.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame your portfolio examples as compelling case studies. Start with the challenge, detail your methodology and actions, and conclude with the quantifiable results and lessons learned.

• Visual Aids: Be prepared to walk through key technical drawings, schematics, or diagrams. Explain the purpose and significance of these documents in the context of the project.

• Highlight Leadership: Clearly articulate your role as a manager – how you delegated tasks, mentored team members, resolved conflicts, and ensured the overall technical direction was sound.

• Client Focus: Emphasize how your design choices and management approach specifically addressed client needs and contributed to their operational success.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong blend of technical depth, project management acumen, and leadership skills, backed by concrete examples from your experience, particularly within the oil and gas EPC sector.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided Comeet link or company careers portal.

• Tailor your resume: Ensure it prominently features your 12+ years of experience in control systems and instrumentation design, specifically highlighting your experience with DCS, PLC, SCADA, ESD systems, and EPC project management. Quantify achievements and list relevant clients like Saudi Aramco or ADNOC if applicable.

• Prepare your portfolio: Curate 2-3 of your most impactful projects, focusing on detailed case studies that showcase your technical leadership, problem-solving abilities, team management, and successful project outcomes.

• Research INTECH Process Automation: Understand their services, industry focus, and project types. Prepare to articulate how your skills and experience align with their needs and company culture.

• Practice interview responses: Rehearse answers to common technical, behavioral, and situational questions, focusing on providing specific, evidence-based examples from your career.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with INTECH Process Automation through their official application channels before making application decisions.