Design Manager - Site

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Site Company: Egis Group Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates Job Type: Full-time Category: Design & Construction Operations Date Posted: December 09, 2025 Experience Level: 10+ Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is critical for overseeing the comprehensive design lifecycle of construction projects, with a strong emphasis on on-site execution and integration.
• The Design Manager will be responsible for leading and coordinating a multidisciplinary design team, ensuring all architectural and engineering elements align with project objectives and quality standards.
• A key focus will be on bridging the gap between design intent and on-site reality through regular site visits, proactive problem-solving, and effective communication with all project stakeholders.
• This position demands a strategic approach to managing design budgets, timelines, and resources while ensuring strict adherence to local regulations, building codes, and sustainability mandates.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Manager - Site," the responsibilities detailed (managing design teams, reviewing documents, implementing quality control) indicate a role that is deeply involved in the oversight of the design process from a site perspective, rather than purely execution of design tasks. The emphasis on "on-site design management" and "site-based" nature of the role suggests a strong focus on constructability, coordination, and problem-solving directly at the project site.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the site-based design team, comprising architects, engineers, and other design professionals, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.
• Oversee the entire design process for construction projects, from conceptualization through to detailed development and implementation, with a keen eye on site-specific requirements.
• Conduct frequent and thorough site visits to monitor progress, ensure design compliance with approved plans, and identify/resolve any on-site design challenges or discrepancies proactively.
• Review, critique, and formally approve all design documents, including drawings, specifications, and reports, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and adherence to project scope.
• Collaborate closely with Project Managers, contractors, the supervision team, client representatives, and other stakeholders to ensure design objectives are met efficiently and effectively.
• Implement and rigorously maintain quality control processes and standards throughout the design and construction phases to guarantee the integrity and performance of project deliverables.
• Analyze and resolve complex design issues that arise during construction, developing and proposing innovative, practical, and cost-effective solutions.
• Ensure unwavering compliance with all relevant local building codes, UAE regulations, and international sustainability standards (e.g., green building practices).
• Manage design-related budgets and project timelines, optimizing resource allocation to achieve project milestones within financial and temporal constraints.
• Stay abreast of the latest industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in construction design and project management to drive continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The input highlights "site-based" and "coordination on site between contractors, client, design guardian, supervision team and stake holders." This reinforces that the role is not purely a desk-based design manager but one that actively engages with the physical construction site and its associated teams to ensure design intent is realized.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture is a mandatory requirement.

Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in architecture is required, with a proven and substantial track record specifically in on-site design management for construction projects.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Proven ability to lead and manage the design process for complex construction projects from inception to completion, with a strong emphasis on site integration.
• CAD & BIM Proficiency: Expertise in industry-standard CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) platforms (e.g., Revit) for design development, coordination, and documentation.
• Construction Documentation: In-depth understanding and practical experience with construction documentation, including drawings, specifications, and technical reports.
• Project Management: Demonstrated ability to manage project timelines, budgets, resources, and design teams effectively, ensuring successful project outcomes.
• Quality Control: Experience in implementing and overseeing quality control processes within design and construction environments to ensure adherence to standards.
• Regulatory Compliance: Strong knowledge of local UAE building codes, regulations, and international design standards.
• Analytical & Problem-Solving: Excellent ability to analyze complex design challenges, identify root causes, and develop innovative and practical solutions.
• Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Superior verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate and build rapport with diverse stakeholders, including clients, contractors, and internal teams.

Preferred Skills:

• Professional Certifications: Holding relevant professional certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or LEED AP (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional) is highly advantageous.
• Sustainability Expertise: Familiarity and practical experience with sustainability principles and green building practices in construction design.
• Cost Estimation & Budgeting: Experience in cost estimation, budget management, and resource allocation specifically for design-related project components.
• Client & Stakeholder Management: Proven ability to manage client expectations and effectively liaise with all project stakeholders.
• Travel Adaptability: Willingness and ability to travel to various construction sites within the UAE as required by project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "10 years of experience in architecture, with a proven track record in on-site design management" and "Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit) and Building Information Modeling (BIM)" are critical for this role. The preferred certifications like PMP and LEED AP indicate a leaning towards structured project management and sustainable design practices, common in large-scale construction operations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Coordination Case Studies: Showcase examples of successful coordination between architectural, structural, MEP, and other engineering disciplines on past projects, highlighting your role in resolving conflicts.
• Site-Specific Design Problem-Solving: Include case studies demonstrating how you addressed and resolved complex design issues encountered during the construction phase on-site, emphasizing practical solutions and their implementation.
• Quality Assurance Documentation: Present examples of quality control checklists, review reports, or process documentation used to ensure design accuracy and compliance on construction sites.
• Regulatory Compliance Documentation: Demonstrate experience with ensuring designs meet local building codes and regulations, perhaps through annotated drawings or compliance reports.
• BIM/CAD Workflow Examples: Provide visual examples or descriptions of your workflow using BIM and CAD software for design development, clash detection, and documentation, particularly in a site context.

Process Documentation:

• Design Review & Approval Workflows: Document the process you've used for reviewing and approving design documents, including sign-off procedures and stakeholder feedback loops.
• Site Visit Protocols: Outline a structured approach for conducting site visits, including inspection checklists, reporting mechanisms, and follow-up actions for design-related issues.
• Change Management Processes: Detail your experience with managing design changes on-site, including impact assessment, documentation, and communication protocols.
• Sustainability Integration Processes: Showcase how you integrate sustainability principles and green building practices into the design and construction oversight process.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a "Design Manager - Site" role, a portfolio needs to emphasize practical application and problem-solving in a live construction environment. This means showcasing not just design outputs but the process of managing design on-site, including coordination, quality control, and issue resolution.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager with 10+ years of experience in Dubai, UAE, overseeing complex construction projects, the estimated annual salary range is AED 300,000 - AED 450,000. This estimate considers the high cost of living in Dubai, the specialized skills required (Architecture, BIM, Project Management, Site Coordination), and the significant responsibility of managing design for major construction initiatives.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Coverage for the employee and potentially dependents, including medical, dental, and vision.
• Annual Flight Tickets: Allowance for return airfare to home country for the employee and/or dependents, typically once per year.
• Accommodation Allowance/Provision: Support for housing costs in Dubai, either through a direct allowance or company-provided accommodation.
• Professional Development Support: Opportunities for continued learning, including training, workshops, and support for maintaining professional certifications (e.g., PMP, LEED AP).
• Paid Time Off: Generous annual leave allowance, plus public holidays as per UAE labor law.
• End-of-Service Gratuity: As mandated by UAE labor law, typically calculated based on years of service and final salary.
• Relocation Assistance: Support for relocating to Dubai, which may include visa processing, initial accommodation, and shipping allowances.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week, often spread over 5 days. However, due to the site-based nature of the role and project demands, there may be a need for flexibility and potential overtime, especially during critical project phases or when addressing urgent site issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary ranges for specialized roles like Design Manager in Dubai are typically higher than in many other regions due to the demand for skilled professionals and the cost of living. The range provided is an estimate based on typical compensation packages for similar roles in the UAE construction and engineering sector. Benefits are standard for expatriate roles in Dubai.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry:

• Egis Group operates within the Architecture, Consulting, Construction Engineering, and Mobility Services sectors. In the Middle East, they are a significant player in delivering complex development projects, contributing to economic growth and quality of life. Their work is deeply intertwined with the built environment, infrastructure development, and sustainable urban planning. Company Size:
• Globally, Egis employs over 20,500 people. In the Middle East, they have a substantial presence with 3,500 employees across 8 countries. This indicates a large, well-established organization with significant resources and a broad operational footprint. Founded:
• While the exact founding date of Egis Group isn't provided, their long history of delivering complex development projects suggests decades of operational experience and a deep understanding of the construction and engineering industry.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of a site-based team, indicating a hands-on, operational structure focused on project execution.
• You will likely report to a senior project lead or director, with direct management responsibilities for a team of architects and engineers.
• Close collaboration is expected with project managers, construction supervisors, contractors, and client representatives, highlighting a cross-functional and integrated team approach.

Methodology:

• Egis emphasizes creating "intelligent infrastructures and buildings that respond to the climate emergency and contribute to more balanced, sustainable and resilient territorial development." This suggests a methodology that prioritizes innovation, sustainability, and long-term resilience in all project phases.
• The company's approach is data-driven and technology-forward, aiming for cutting-edge innovations accessible to all projects.

Company Website:

• https://www.egis-group.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Egis's focus on sustainability and resilience, coupled with their global reach and substantial Middle East presence, suggests a company that values forward-thinking design and robust project execution. The "site-based" nature of this role means you'll be immersed in the practical realities of construction, working within a team dedicated to bringing complex projects to life.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

• This role represents a senior-level position within the design and construction operations domain. With 10+ years of experience, the Design Manager - Site is expected to demonstrate strategic oversight, leadership, and deep technical expertise in managing design processes on complex projects. This level implies autonomy in decision-making regarding design execution and problem-solving on site.

Reporting Structure:

• The Design Manager - Site will likely report to a Project Director or a senior Construction Manager. They will, in turn, manage a team of architects, BIM specialists, and potentially junior designers. Collaboration will be extensive with Site Managers, Construction Managers, and client-side representatives.

Operations Impact:

• The Design Manager - Site has a direct and significant impact on project success by ensuring designs are constructible, compliant, high-quality, and delivered on time and within budget. Their ability to resolve on-site design issues efficiently can prevent costly delays and rework, directly influencing project profitability and client satisfaction. Their adherence to sustainability standards also contributes to the company's broader environmental and corporate social responsibility goals.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Leadership Roles: Progression to roles such as Head of Design, Director of Engineering, or Project Director for larger, more complex multi-disciplinary projects.
• Specialization Advancement: Deepening expertise in specific areas like BIM management, sustainable design leadership, or complex infrastructure design.
• International Mobility: Opportunities to work on Egis projects in other regions where the company operates, leveraging international experience.
• Technical Consultancy: Transitioning into a more advisory or consultancy role, providing expert design guidance across multiple projects or business units.

📝 Enhancement Note: A "Design Manager - Site" role at this experience level is pivotal. It's not just about managing designs but ensuring operational viability on-site. Growth paths typically lead to broader project leadership or specialized technical authority within the organization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

• This is a predominantly site-based role. While there may be access to site offices or a project field office, the primary work environment will be an active construction site. This means exposure to various weather conditions and the dynamic nature of construction activities. Office Location(s):
• The role is specifically located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Specific construction sites will vary within the Dubai region, requiring regular travel and presence at active development areas.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be a mix of on-site presence and potentially a project site office. This environment demands adaptability and the ability to work effectively amidst the hustle and bustle of construction.
• Access to essential tools like site plans, drawing review stations, and potentially site-specific IT infrastructure will be provided.
• Direct interaction with site teams, contractors, and supervision personnel is constant, fostering a highly collaborative and practical working atmosphere.

Work Schedule:

• Standard working hours will likely be followed during the week, but the demands of a construction site often necessitate flexibility. This can include early starts, extended hours, and potentially weekend work to meet critical project deadlines or address urgent site issues. Adherence to UAE labor laws regarding working hours and overtime compensation will apply.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "site-based" nature is key. Candidates must be comfortable with a dynamic, often challenging, construction environment rather than a traditional office setting. Mobility to various project sites within Dubai is a core requirement.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio to assess experience, qualifications, and alignment with the role's core requirements, particularly for on-site design management and BIM/CAD proficiency.
• Technical Interview: This stage will likely involve in-depth discussions about your experience with managing design teams, resolving on-site design challenges, your understanding of construction codes, and your approach to quality control and sustainability. Expect technical questions related to BIM workflows, AutoCAD/Revit usage, and construction documentation.
• Portfolio Presentation: You may be asked to present specific case studies from your portfolio, detailing a challenging on-site design scenario, how you managed it, the solutions implemented, and the resulting impact on the project (e.g., time, cost, quality).
• Site Visit/Assessment (Potentially): In some cases, candidates might be asked to visit a relevant site or participate in a simulated site coordination exercise to assess practical problem-solving skills.
• Cultural Fit & Behavioral Interview: An assessment of your communication style, leadership approach, ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders, and how you align with Egis Group's values and work culture.
• Final Interview: Typically with senior management or the hiring director, focusing on strategic thinking, leadership potential, and overall suitability for the role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Site Relevance: Prioritize projects where you managed design directly on-site or dealt with constructability issues. Highlight your role in bridging design and execution.
• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work. For example, "Reduced design-related delays by X%", "Resolved Y number of clashes through proactive BIM coordination," or "Ensured Z% compliance with sustainable building standards."
• Showcase Problem-Solving: Include detailed case studies of complex design challenges you faced on-site and the innovative, practical solutions you implemented. Explain the thought process and decision-making.
• Illustrate Collaboration: Provide examples of how you effectively collaborated with contractors, site teams, and other disciplines.
• Technical Proficiency: Clearly demonstrate your proficiency with AutoCAD, Revit, and BIM, perhaps through annotated drawings, clash detection reports, or workflow diagrams.
• Conciseness and Clarity: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and clearly articulates your contributions and the project outcomes.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for scenario-based questions: "Imagine you discover a significant design conflict on-site just before construction is scheduled to begin. How would you address this?"
• Practice articulating your design management philosophy and how you ensure quality and compliance on active construction sites.
• Review Egis Group's recent projects and their focus areas (sustainability, smart infrastructure) to tailor your responses.
• Prepare to discuss your experience with specific construction codes and regulations relevant to the UAE.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "site" in the job title means the interview process and portfolio review will heavily scrutinize practical, on-the-ground experience and problem-solving capabilities rather than purely theoretical design management.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: AutoCAD (essential for 2D drafting and site plans).
• BIM Software: Revit (critical for 3D modeling, clash detection, and integrated design coordination).
• Project Management Software: Potentially MS Project, Primavera P6, or similar for managing project timelines and resource allocation, especially at a higher level.
• Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Autodesk BIM 360/ACC, Procore, or similar for document management, collaboration, and site communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Design Review Tools: Software for annotating and reviewing drawings and documents (e.g., Bluebeam Revu).
• Reporting Dashboards: Familiarity with creating or interpreting reports on design progress, compliance, and issue resolution.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design data integrates with broader project management or ERP systems might be beneficial.
• Familiarity with document management systems and workflow automation for design review processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in AutoCAD and Revit is explicitly stated as a requirement. Experience with BIM platforms and project management/collaboration software commonly used in large-scale construction is highly expected for effective site design management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality design outcomes that meet stringent standards and client expectations.
• Innovation & Problem-Solving: A proactive approach to identifying and resolving design challenges with creative and effective solutions.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a cooperative environment where diverse disciplines work together seamlessly to achieve project goals.
• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding high ethical standards in all interactions and project dealings.
• Sustainability & Resilience: A dedication to designing and building structures that are environmentally responsible and capable of withstanding future challenges.

Collaboration Style:

• The role demands a highly collaborative style, acting as a central point of coordination between design teams, site execution teams, contractors, and clients.
• Effective communication and the ability to translate technical design information into practical instructions for site personnel are paramount.
• A culture of continuous improvement and feedback exchange is likely encouraged, especially regarding constructability and design optimization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Egis's emphasis on "intelligent infrastructures," "climate emergency," and "resilient territorial development" points to a company culture that values innovation, sustainability, and long-term impact. For this role, collaboration will be less about abstract discussions and more about practical, on-site teamwork to ensure design intent is realized safely and efficiently.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Bridging Design & Site Realities: The primary challenge will be ensuring design intent translates effectively to the construction site, managing discrepancies, and adapting designs to unforeseen site conditions while maintaining project integrity.
• Stakeholder Management: Effectively coordinating and managing expectations among diverse stakeholders (client, contractors, consultants, internal teams) with potentially conflicting priorities.
• Time and Budget Pressures: Delivering high-quality design oversight within strict project timelines and budgets, often requiring rapid problem-solving.
• Navigating Regulations: Ensuring continuous compliance with evolving local building codes and sustainability standards in a dynamic regulatory environment.
• Technical Integration: Managing the integration of various engineering disciplines and complex technological systems within the overall design framework.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced BIM & Digital Tools: Opportunities to deepen expertise in advanced BIM workflows, digital twins, and other emerging construction technologies.
• Sustainable Design Certifications: Pursuing advanced LEED credentials or other specialized sustainability training relevant to the MENA region.
• Large-Scale Project Management: Gaining experience managing design for mega-projects, developing strategic project leadership skills.
• Industry Best Practices: Exposure to international best practices in design management and construction engineering through Egis's global network.
• Leadership Development: Potential for formal leadership training and mentorship programs within a large, international organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "site" component of this role inherently presents unique challenges related to practical execution and on-the-ground problem-solving. Growth opportunities are tied to successfully navigating these challenges and expanding one's scope of responsibility within Egis's significant project portfolio.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to resolve a significant design conflict on a live construction site. What was the issue, how did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on process, communication, and solution)
• "How do you ensure that design documentation is accurate, complete, and compliant with local building codes before it's issued for construction?" (Highlight your review process and quality control measures)
• "How do you balance the demands of design quality, project timelines, and budget constraints when managing design on-site?" (Demonstrate your prioritization and resource management skills)
• "What is your approach to integrating sustainability principles into construction design, particularly in the context of site execution?" (Showcase your understanding of green building practices)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Egis Group and our approach to sustainable and resilient infrastructure development?" (Research Egis's values and recent projects)
• "How do you foster collaboration between design teams, contractors, and site personnel?" (Emphasize your communication and team-building skills)
• "How do you stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in construction design and management?" (Show your commitment to continuous learning)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Site-Centric Examples: Choose case studies that most clearly illustrate your on-site design management capabilities, problem-solving, and coordination efforts.
• Walk Through Your Process: For each case study, clearly explain your role, the steps you took, the tools you used (e.g., BIM for clash detection), and the impact of your actions.
• Quantify Results: Use numbers and data whenever possible to demonstrate the tangible benefits of your contributions (e.g., saved time, reduced costs, improved compliance).
• Be Ready for Technical Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your technical proficiency with AutoCAD, Revit, and BIM workflows.
• Highlight Collaborative Wins: Showcase instances where your effective communication and collaboration led to successful project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role should heavily emphasize practical, real-world scenarios encountered on construction sites. The ability to articulate not just what you did, but how you did it and why it was effective, will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on SmartRecruiters.
• Tailor your Resume: Highlight your 10+ years of experience specifically in on-site design management for construction projects. Emphasize your proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, BIM, construction documentation, and regulatory compliance within the UAE context. Use keywords from the job description.
• Curate Your Portfolio: Prepare a concise portfolio showcasing at least 2-3 relevant projects. Focus on case studies demonstrating your ability to manage design on-site, resolve conflicts, implement quality control, and collaborate effectively with construction teams. Include visual examples of your work with CAD/BIM software if possible.
• Prepare for Technical Questions: Review common challenges in construction design management, UAE building codes, and best practices in BIM coordination. Be ready to discuss your experience with specific software.
• Research Egis Group: Understand their project portfolio, values, and commitment to sustainability. Prepare to articulate why you are a good fit for their culture and mission.

⚠️ 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.