Design Manager - Site - KSA

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager – Site

Company: CTS Group

Location: Project sites across Saudi Arabia

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Construction Design Management / Engineering

Date Posted: 2026-10-06T08:24:34

Experience Level: 7+ Years (5-10 AI estimate)

Remote Status: Hybrid (Rotational: 3 weeks on-site / 1 week remote)

🚀 Role Summary

• Serve as the on-site design authority, ensuring constructed elements align with approved and coordinated design intent throughout the project lifecycle.

• Proactively manage the Request for Information (RFI) and Technical Query (TQ) process, ensuring timely resolution and clear communication channels.

• Implement robust change control procedures for site-driven design modifications, meticulously assessing impacts on program, cost, resilience, and compliance.

• Facilitate seamless integration of Mechanical and Electrical systems, including specialized prefabricated and modular units, ensuring adherence to high-performance standards.

• Drive design input and representation in critical site coordination, progress, and client meetings, providing clear status updates and risk assessments.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a hybrid on-site and remote position, requiring a significant physical presence at project sites in Saudi Arabia with structured periods of remote work. The emphasis on "site-based design management" and "point of design authority on site" highlights a critical, hands-on function within the project delivery team, distinct from a purely office-based design role.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Act as the primary design liaison on-site, bridging communication between the construction team, subcontractors, vendors, client representatives, and the central Design & Engineering department.

• Manage the end-to-end RFI and Technical Query (TQ) workflow: logging, prioritizing, resolving, or appropriately routing queries to ensure rapid closure within established turnaround times.

• Oversee and control design changes that arise during the construction phase, evaluating their impact on project schedule, budget, resilience, and regulatory compliance before formalizing through CTS's change control process.

• Conduct thorough reviews of contractor and vendor submittals, including shop drawings and equipment/material specifications, to ensure strict adherence to the approved design intent.

• Maintain rigorous drawing control and information release protocols on-site, ensuring all site teams are consistently working with the latest approved design revisions.

• Perform regular site inspections and walk-downs to verify that installations accurately reflect the design specifications, promptly identifying and resolving design-related non-conformances.

• Facilitate site-based clash detection and the resolution of field changes in close collaboration with the BIM team, ensuring the common data environment (CDE) and models are updated accordingly.

• Support the intricate installation interfaces across critical building systems, including power, cooling, fire protection, BMS/EPMS, and the integration of prefabricated/modular solutions like EPODs and modular data centre units.

• Lead design-related discussions in site coordination, progress, and client meetings, delivering concise reports on design status, outstanding RFIs/TQs, and identified design risks to the Project Director.

• Provide essential design clarifications and support during all phases of testing and commissioning (Levels 1–5 / Integrated System Testing - IST), actively contributing to the resolution of commissioning-related issues.

• Manage the comprehensive process of as-built documentation, red-line mark-ups, and the collation of design handover information to secure client acceptance.

• Assist in facilitating site inspections and securing approvals from key Saudi authorities, including Balady/municipal bodies, Saudi Civil Defense, and the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC).

• Champion safety in design principles on site and ensure strict adherence to CTS's Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) standards.

• Actively contribute to continuous improvement by feeding site-derived lessons learned back to the Design & Engineering team, informing future CTS standards and reference designs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a proactive, hands-on approach to design implementation on-site, focusing on problem-solving, quality assurance, and rigorous process management within a complex construction environment. The integration of modular units and specific Saudi regulatory knowledge are key differentiators for this role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering is strongly preferred.

• Alternatively, a degree in Civil/Structural Engineering, Architecture, or another relevant technical discipline will be considered. Experience:

• A minimum of 7 years of relevant professional experience is required.

• This must include at least 3 years in a site-based design management, design coordination, or construction-phase engineering role. Required Skills:

• Data Centre / Mission-Critical Experience: Demonstrable experience in the design or construction phases of data centres, mission-critical facilities, or similarly complex technical construction projects.

• MEP Systems Expertise: Strong understanding of Mechanical and Electrical systems and their critical interfaces within mission-critical environments, including knowledge of resilience topologies and Uptime Institute Tier standards.

• Construction Phase Design Management: Proven track record in managing RFIs, Technical Queries (TQs), contractor/vendor submittals, and design change control processes specifically during the construction phase.

• Testing & Commissioning Support: Experience providing design input and support throughout the testing and commissioning phases, leading up to final project handover.

• Contractor/Consultancy Background: Experience working within an EPC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction) or design-build contractor environment, or a Design & Engineering consultancy with direct site delivery responsibilities.

• BIM & CDE Proficiency: Working knowledge of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and digital coordination processes, including practical experience with common data environments (CDEs) like Autodesk Navisworks and BIM 360 / Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) for site coordination.

• Saudi Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with key Saudi Arabian regulations and standards, including the Saudi Building Code (SBC), Saudi Civil Defense fire and life-safety requirements, Balady/MOMRAH municipal permitting processes, and Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) grid-connection stipulations.

• Decision-Making: Ability to make timely and sound technical decisions under pressure from project schedules.

• Interpersonal Skills: Capability to work effectively and collaboratively with site teams, subcontractors, and client representatives.

• Language Proficiency: Fluent English (mandatory). Arabic language skills are considered advantageous.

Preferred Skills:

• High-Ambient/Water-Constrained Design: Experience designing facilities for high-ambient-temperature and water-constrained environments.

• Modular Systems Integration: Familiarity with the integration of prefabricated and modular data centre units (e.g., EPODs, modular data centre units).

• Site Inspection & Approvals: Experience directly engaging with and supporting municipal and regulatory body inspections and approvals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize practical, on-site experience in complex technical projects, particularly data centers. Strong knowledge of MEP systems, BIM coordination tools, and specific Saudi Arabian building codes and regulations are crucial for success in this role, indicating a need for candidates with localized or directly relevant international project experience.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Change Management Case Studies: Examples demonstrating how you have effectively managed and controlled design changes during construction, including impact assessments on schedule, cost, and resilience.

• RFI/TQ Resolution Examples: Documentation showcasing your process for managing RFIs and TQs, including examples of complex queries you resolved or escalated, and the turnaround times achieved.

• Submittal Review Process: Evidence of your systematic approach to reviewing contractor and vendor submittals, shop drawings, and equipment specifications against design intent.

• Site Inspection & Non-Conformance Reports: Samples of site inspection reports and non-conformance documentation, illustrating your ability to identify and rectify design-related installation issues.

• Coordination & Clash Resolution: Case studies detailing your involvement in site clash resolution and field change coordination, particularly with BIM teams and CDEs.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Showcase your ability to design and optimize workflows for managing site design information, RFI/TQ processes, and change control, ensuring efficiency and clarity.

• Implementation & Automation: Examples of how you've implemented or utilized systems (like BIM 360/ACC) to streamline design coordination, information sharing, and document control on site.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Demonstrate how you track and report on key design management metrics on site, such as RFI/TQ turnaround times, number of design changes, and non-conformance rates, to drive performance improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates are expected to present a portfolio that not only lists responsibilities but also provides tangible evidence of their process management capabilities. This includes demonstrating how they have successfully navigated the complexities of on-site design control, issue resolution, and cross-functional coordination, with a focus on quantifiable outcomes and adherence to established project methodologies.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Given the specialized nature of the role, the location (Saudi Arabia), and the experience level (7+ years), a competitive salary is expected. Based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers in mission-critical construction in the Middle East, the estimated annual salary range would be between SAR 250,000 - SAR 400,000 (approximately USD 67,000 - USD 107,000). This estimate considers the rotational work pattern and the specific technical demands of data centre projects.

Benefits:

• Rotational Work Schedule: Structured work pattern offering a balance between on-site project engagement and remote personal time (3 weeks on site / 1 week remote).

• Accommodation & Living Expenses: Provision of accommodation and potentially a living allowance during on-site rotations.

• Travel Allowance: Coverage or allowance for travel related to the rotational schedule.

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical coverage for employees and potentially dependents, adhering to local standards.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and continuous learning relevant to data centre design and construction.

• Company-Provided Equipment: Necessary tools, including laptops and mobile devices, for effective job performance.

• Contribution to Retirement/Pension: As per Saudi labor law and company policy.

Working Hours:

While the role is full-time, specific working hours on-site are typically dictated by project demands and site operations, often exceeding standard 8-hour days to meet project milestones. The rotational nature provides structured remote work periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on research into similar roles within the construction and data center sectors in Saudi Arabia and the broader GCC region, factoring in the specific rotational work arrangement and the seniority of the position. Benefits are inferred based on standard offerings for expatriate or rotational roles in the construction industry in this region.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Data Centre Design & Build (Construction Technology / Critical Infrastructure)

Company Size: Growing International Company (Specific size not provided, but described as "fast-growing" with "over 40 nationalities"). This suggests a dynamic environment with a significant global footprint but potentially still agile.

Founded: Not specified, but "established CTS as a trusted industry leader" implies a history of successful project delivery.

Team Structure:

• Project-Centric Delivery: The Design Manager operates as a key member of a project delivery team, reporting directly to the Project Director on site.

• Dual Reporting: A dotted-line reporting relationship to the Design Director ensures alignment with central engineering standards and strategic design direction.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Close interaction is required with site construction teams, subcontractors, vendors, client technical representatives, and the office-based Design & Engineering teams, highlighting a collaborative, matrixed environment.

Methodology:

• Engineering Excellence & Innovation: CTS emphasizes combining engineering excellence with innovative approaches and digital transformation.

• Standardized Modular Solutions: Development and implementation of digital systems and standardized modular data centre units are core to their delivery methodology.

• Data-Driven Delivery: Implicit in data centre development, a focus on precision, efficiency, and performance metrics is expected.

• Agile Project Execution: The "fast-growing" nature and focus on speed and efficiency suggest an agile approach to project delivery, requiring adaptability.

Company Website: https://careers.cts-group.co

📝 Enhancement Note: CTS Group positions itself as a leader in data centre development, focusing on innovation, engineering quality, and modular solutions. The company culture appears to be international, inclusive, and performance-driven. The site-based Design Manager role is integral to project execution, requiring strong on-site leadership and effective communication across diverse stakeholder groups.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a senior-level position, falling under Design Management and Site Operations leadership within the construction and engineering domain. It represents a crucial link between the design intent and the physical realization of complex technical projects.

Reporting Structure:

• Direct report to the Project Director on site, indicating significant responsibility for project delivery outcomes.

• Dotted-line report to the Design Director, ensuring adherence to company-wide design standards, best practices, and strategic engineering initiatives. Operations Impact:

• The Design Manager's role has a direct and critical impact on project success by ensuring that the constructed facility precisely matches the approved design, thereby minimizing costly rework, delays, and quality compromises.

• They are instrumental in maintaining project budgets and schedules by controlling design changes and resolving technical queries efficiently.

• Their work directly influences the resilience, performance, and sustainability of the data centres delivered, aligning with CTS's core value proposition. Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Management Roles: Progression to Design Director or Lead Design Manager roles overseeing multiple projects or larger, more complex data centre developments.

• Project Director / Management: Potential career path into overall Project Director roles, leveraging deep site and design understanding for holistic project leadership.

• Specialization in Data Centre Engineering: Deepening expertise in specific areas such as power systems, cooling technologies, modular construction, or digital integration within data centres.

• Technical Leadership: Becoming a subject matter expert (SME) within CTS for specific design disciplines or regulatory compliance, advising on standards and best practices.

• International Mobility: Opportunities to work on CTS projects in other regions within EMEA, leveraging acquired experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for experienced design and construction professionals to advance into senior leadership positions within the specialized and high-growth data centre sector. The emphasis on site delivery and problem-solving provides a strong foundation for broader project management responsibilities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily site-based, with a rotational component for remote work. The on-site environment will be a busy, active construction site, likely including site offices and potentially temporary facilities. The remote work component would typically be from a home office.

Office Location(s): Project sites across Saudi Arabia. Specific locations will vary based on current project assignments. The rotational nature implies travel to these sites is required.

Workspace Context:

• On-Site: Dynamic and potentially challenging construction site environment. Requires adaptability to site conditions, weather, and the pace of construction activities. Access to site facilities, project offices, and collaboration spaces with site teams is expected.

• Technology Integration: Reliance on digital tools for coordination, communication, and documentation (e.g., BIM software, CDE platforms, project management software).

• Collaboration Hubs: Frequent interaction with site engineers, project managers, subcontractors, and client representatives in project meeting rooms, site offices, and potentially on the active construction floor.

Work Schedule:

• Rotational: 3 weeks on-site, followed by 1 week working remotely.

• On-Site Hours: Typically demanding, aligned with construction project schedules, which may include extended hours and potentially weekend work during critical phases.

• Remote Hours: Standard professional working hours, focused on reporting, documentation, and coordination with office-based teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is characterized by its demanding, on-site nature and a structured rotational schedule. Candidates must be comfortable with the realities of construction site operations, including potential exposure to various weather conditions and the need for strict adherence to safety protocols, while also being organized and productive during remote work periods.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and application to assess alignment with core requirements (experience, education, technical skills, Saudi regulatory knowledge).

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion focusing on design management experience, RFI/TQ handling, change control processes, MEP systems knowledge, BIM coordination, and site-based problem-solving abilities. Expect scenarios related to data centre construction.

• Site/Project Case Study Discussion: Presentation or discussion of past projects, focusing on specific challenges faced during construction design, how they were resolved, and the impact of your actions. This is where portfolio elements would be discussed.

• Cultural Fit & Behavioral Interview: Assessment of collaboration style, communication effectiveness, adaptability to a rotational work schedule, and alignment with CTS Group's values (e.g., engineering excellence, innovation, HSE).

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership (Project Director or Design Director) to finalize terms and confirm suitability for the role and project.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantifiable Achievements: Focus on demonstrating measurable impact. Instead of "Managed RFIs," state "Managed an average of X RFIs per week, achieving a Y% on-time closure rate, reducing design-related delays by Z%."

• Process Visualization: Use diagrams or flowcharts to illustrate your RFI/TQ management, change control, or submittal review processes.

• Problem/Solution/Result (PSR) Format: For case studies, structure your examples using the PSR method: clearly define the problem (e.g., a design clash), your solution (e.g., facilitated BIM coordination meeting), and the positive result (e.g., clash resolved, avoiding rework and schedule delay).

• BIM/CDE Examples: If possible, include anonymized screenshots or descriptions of how you utilized Navisworks or BIM 360 for coordination and clash detection on site.

• Saudi Regulations: Highlight specific instances where your knowledge of SBC, Civil Defense, or SEC requirements was critical in resolving design issues or securing approvals.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for questions like: "A critical MEP component is found to be incorrectly installed due to a misunderstanding of the approved shop drawings. What are your immediate steps?" or "A subcontractor proposes a significant change to a cooling system design mid-construction. How do you assess and manage this?"

• Technical Deep Dive: Be ready to discuss specific aspects of data centre MEP systems, resilience tiers, and integration challenges.

• Communication Simulation: Practice articulating complex technical issues clearly and concisely, as you would in a site meeting or a report to senior management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process emphasizes practical experience and problem-solving skills. A well-curated portfolio that showcases specific examples of process management, impact, and technical expertise, particularly concerning site-based design challenges in complex projects, will be crucial for a successful application.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• BIM Software: Autodesk Navisworks (for clash detection, model review, simulation), potentially Autodesk Revit (for understanding models).

• Common Data Environments (CDE): Autodesk BIM 360 / Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) (for document management, collaboration, workflow automation).

• Project Management Software: Potentially MS Project, Primavera P6, or similar for schedule impact analysis of design changes.

• Document Management Systems: SharePoint, Aconex, or proprietary company systems for managing project documentation.

• CAD Software: AutoCAD (for reviewing 2D drawings and mark-ups).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software: Microsoft Excel (for RFI/TQ tracking, data analysis, reporting).

• Presentation Software: Microsoft PowerPoint (for preparing reports and presentations for meetings).

• Data Visualization Tools: Potentially Power BI or Tableau for creating dashboards if required for reporting design status and risks.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design information integrates with project management and potentially client relationship management systems is beneficial.

• Workflow Automation: Experience with features within BIM 360/ACC or similar platforms for automating review and approval processes.

• Integration Understanding: Awareness of how different project systems (design, construction, commissioning) integrate and share data.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with BIM coordination tools (Navisworks) and cloud-based CDE platforms (BIM 360/ACC) is essential for site coordination and collaboration. The ability to manage data effectively in spreadsheets and present findings using presentation software is also critical for reporting and communication.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Engineering Excellence: A commitment to high standards in design, installation, and problem-solving, ensuring the technical integrity of data centre facilities.

• Innovation & Digital Transformation: Embracing new technologies and methodologies, such as modular construction and digital coordination, to enhance project delivery.

• Collaboration & Inclusivity: Fostering a team environment where diverse perspectives (over 40 nationalities) are valued, and open communication is encouraged across all project stakeholders.

• HSE Commitment: Prioritizing health, safety, and environmental standards in all on-site activities, ensuring a safe working environment for all personnel.

• Efficiency & Speed: A focus on delivering complex projects with speed and efficiency, driven by strong project management and streamlined processes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role necessitates seamless collaboration between design, construction, procurement, and client teams to ensure project alignment and timely issue resolution.

• Proactive Communication: Emphasis on clear, timely, and transparent communication, especially in managing RFIs, TQs, and design changes, to prevent misunderstandings and delays.

• Problem-Solving Orientation: A collective approach to identifying and solving technical challenges encountered during construction, valuing input from all levels and disciplines.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of lessons learned from site experiences back to the central design teams to continuously improve company standards and practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: CTS Group cultivates a culture that blends technical rigor with a forward-thinking approach to construction technology and project delivery. The emphasis on collaboration and HSE is paramount, especially in the demanding site environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• On-Site Dynamics: Navigating the fast-paced, often unpredictable environment of a large-scale construction site, managing diverse personalities and competing priorities.

• Design Interpretation vs. Site Reality: Bridging the gap between detailed design documents and the practicalities of on-site installation, requiring adept problem-solving and negotiation.

• Regulatory Compliance in KSA: Ensuring strict adherence to evolving Saudi Arabian building codes, safety regulations, and municipal requirements, which can be complex and localized.

• Integration of Advanced Systems: Managing the coordination and installation of sophisticated MEP systems and modular units, ensuring seamless integration and performance.

• Rotational Workload Management: Balancing intensive on-site work periods with effective remote work responsibilities and maintaining work-life balance across the rotation.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Data Centre Training: Access to training programs focused on data centre design principles, MEP systems, resilience standards (e.g., Uptime Institute), and emerging technologies.

• Regulatory Updates: Continuous learning on Saudi Arabian building codes, safety standards, and municipal requirements through professional development sessions or industry engagement.

• BIM & CDE Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in advanced BIM coordination techniques and CDE management for complex projects.

• Leadership Skills Development: Training in project management, stakeholder negotiation, and team leadership, particularly relevant for career progression into senior roles.

• Industry Conferences & Networking: Potential to attend relevant industry events and conferences to stay abreast of trends and network with peers.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges inherent to large-scale construction projects but also offers substantial growth prospects within the booming data centre sector. Continuous learning and adaptability are key to overcoming challenges and capitalizing on development opportunities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Management Strategy: "Describe your approach to managing design integrity on a complex data centre construction site. How do you balance design intent with site realities and subcontractor proposals?" (Prepare to discuss RFI/TQ process, change control, and site inspections.)

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "How do you effectively communicate design issues and coordinate solutions between site teams, subcontractors, and office-based engineering departments? Provide an example of a challenging stakeholder interaction you resolved." (Focus on communication tactics and conflict resolution.)

• Problem-Solving & Efficiency: "Imagine a critical MEP installation is discovered to be non-compliant with Saudi Civil Defense fire safety codes. Outline your immediate steps to address this, considering programme and safety implications." (Prepare to demonstrate structured problem-solving and risk assessment.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Company Operations: "Based on your understanding of CTS Group, how do you see this Design Manager role contributing to the company's mission of delivering innovative and sustainable data centre solutions?" (Research CTS Group's values, recent projects, and market position.)

• Team Dynamics: "Describe your experience working within a project team that includes diverse nationalities and multiple subcontractors. How do you foster a collaborative and productive environment?" (Relate to the company's emphasis on inclusivity and international teams.)

• Impact Measurement: "How would you measure and report on the success of your design management activities on site? What key metrics would you track?" (Focus on quantifiable outcomes like RFI closure rates, change order impacts, and non-conformance reduction.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structured Case Studies: Use the Problem-Solution-Result (PSR) format for each key area (e.g., RFI management, change control, clash resolution). Clearly articulate the challenge, your specific actions, and the quantifiable positive outcome.

• Visual Aids: Prepare simple diagrams to illustrate your processes (e.g., RFI workflow) or anonymized screenshots of BIM coordination outputs if possible.

• Highlight Saudi Compliance: Specifically call out instances where your knowledge of Saudi regulations was instrumental.

• Focus on Site Experience: Emphasize your hands-on experience in managing design on active construction sites, showcasing your ability to make on-the-spot decisions and drive resolutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical, on-site design management expertise, with a strong emphasis on problem-solving, communication, and adherence to technical and regulatory standards. The portfolio should serve as tangible proof of these capabilities, tailored to the specific demands of data centre construction in Saudi Arabia.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager – Site position:

• Submit your updated CV and cover letter through the CTS Group careers portal or via the provided email address (jobs@dc-forte.com).

• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a concise portfolio (digital format preferred) that highlights 2-3 key projects. For each, focus on specific examples of your RFI/TQ management, design change control, site inspections, and BIM coordination efforts. Quantify your achievements wherever possible.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize experience in data centre or mission-critical construction, your proficiency with BIM tools (Navisworks, BIM 360/ACC), and your knowledge of Saudi Arabian regulations (SBC, Civil Defense, SEC). Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Prepare specific examples for technical questions related to MEP systems, design coordination, and site-based problem-solving. Rehearse presenting your portfolio highlights.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research CTS Group's recent projects, company values, and their approach to data centre development. Understand their focus on engineering excellence, innovation, and modular solutions. Familiarize yourself with the rotational work model and its implications.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.