MEP Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: MEP Design Manager

Company: Mace

Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Job Type: Full-time, Regular

Category: Engineering & Construction Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-25T09:08:58

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) design management for a landmark residential community development, ensuring seamless integration of technical systems with architectural and structural elements.

• Drive high-quality, safe, and profitable MEP delivery by leading technical and construction teams, ensuring strict adherence to program timelines and budgetary constraints.

• Champion continuous improvement and collaborative methodologies to achieve strategic outcomes, aligning with Mace's values and net-zero ambitions.

• Oversee the comprehensive MEP design process from inception through to construction, managing multidisciplinary coordination and stakeholder engagement to ensure project success.

• Act as a key point of contact for consultants, project teams, and authorities, facilitating effective communication and securing necessary approvals for design deliverables.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is situated within a large-scale, nature-led residential community development in Dubai, emphasizing sustainable infrastructure and people-centric urban design. The MEP Design Manager will be pivotal in translating these project vision elements into tangible, functional MEP systems. The role requires a strong understanding of UAE-specific regulations and a proactive approach to managing complex design challenges within a fast-paced development environment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate the end-to-end MEP design process across all project stages (conceptual, schematic, detailed design, construction documentation) to achieve defined programme, quality, and commercial objectives.

• Facilitate robust collaboration and communication between external design consultants, internal project teams, client representatives, and specialist stakeholders to ensure integrated and holistic design delivery.

• Proactively monitor design progress, identify potential risks and interdependencies, and implement effective mitigation measures to safeguard project success and minimize deviations from the plan.

• Ensure MEP designs meticulously align with client requirements, operational needs, facility management considerations, and overarching project objectives, including sustainability and net-zero targets.

• Lead the delivery and coordination of design packages for mechanical, electrical, public health, fire protection, security, IT, and other specialist building services systems.

• Conduct rigorous reviews of all MEP design deliverables (drawings, specifications, reports) to ensure compliance with project briefs, local authority regulations (including DEWA, Dubai Civil Defence), and applicable international design standards (e.g., ASHRAE, IEE, CIBSE).

• Coordinate and manage complex multidisciplinary interfaces, ensuring seamless integration between MEP, architectural, structural, façade, and infrastructure design disciplines, leveraging BIM processes where applicable.

• Monitor and manage design programmes and consultant performance against agreed milestones, identifying slippage and implementing corrective actions to maintain project timelines.

• Facilitate and lead crucial design workshops, value engineering studies, and technical review meetings with key stakeholders to optimize design solutions and identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or performance.

• Support the prompt resolution of design issues and coordinate timely and accurate responses to technical queries (TQs) and Requests for Information (RFIs) during the design development and construction phases.

• Manage design risks, implement robust change control processes, and oversee design assurance activities throughout the entire project lifecycle, ensuring documentation and approvals are meticulously maintained.

• Liaise effectively with client representatives, appointed consultants, main contractors, specialist sub-contractors, facility operators, and relevant government authorities to secure necessary design approvals and maintain project alignment.

• Support the integration of sustainability, energy efficiency, and specific operational requirements within the MEP design strategy, particularly for retail and mixed-use development components.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on proactive risk management, stakeholder engagement, and ensuring design compliance with specific UAE regulations. The role requires not just technical oversight but also strong project management and coordination skills to navigate complex project environments.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree qualification in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Building Services Engineering, or a closely related technical discipline. Experience:

• A minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience managing MEP design delivery on large-scale, complex developments, with a strong preference for experience in retail, mixed-use, commercial, or hospitality sectors.

• Proven track record of successfully coordinating multidisciplinary design teams and managing consultants from concept through to construction stages.

• Experience working within the UAE or similar GCC markets, demonstrating a solid understanding of local building codes, authority approval processes (DEWA, DCD, DM, etc.), and international design standards. Required Skills:

• MEP Design Management: Comprehensive understanding of mechanical, electrical, public health, and fire protection systems design principles and their application in large-scale projects.

• Multidisciplinary Coordination: Expertise in managing interfaces and ensuring seamless integration between MEP, architectural, structural, and other design disciplines.

• BIM Processes: Proficient knowledge of Building Information Modeling (BIM) workflows, standards, and its application in design coordination and clash detection.

• Project Delivery Frameworks: Familiarity with standard project delivery methodologies and construction management principles.

• Stakeholder Management: Demonstrated ability to effectively manage relationships and communicate with a diverse range of stakeholders, including clients, consultants, contractors, and authorities.

• Design Assurance & Compliance: Strong understanding of design review processes, quality assurance, and ensuring compliance with project specifications, codes, and standards.

• Risk Management: Ability to identify, assess, and mitigate design-related risks throughout the project lifecycle.

• UAE Building Codes & Regulations: In-depth knowledge of relevant UAE codes, authority requirements, and international standards applicable to MEP systems.

Preferred Skills:

• Professional Membership: Membership with recognized professional engineering institutions such as CIBSE (Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers) or IET (Institution of Engineering and Technology), or an equivalent international body.

• Value Engineering: Experience in facilitating and contributing to value engineering studies to optimize design solutions and cost-effectiveness.

• Sustainability & Energy Efficiency: Knowledge of sustainable design principles, energy efficiency strategies, and relevant certifications (e.g., LEED, Estidama).

• Contract Administration: Familiarity with construction contracts and their implications for design management.

• Financial Acumen: Understanding of project commercial objectives and how design decisions impact project budgets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on professional membership (CIBSE, IET) suggests a desire for candidates with established technical credentials. The requirement for experience with UAE codes and authority approvals is critical for this role in Dubai. The AI-identified experience level of 5-10 years aligns with the complexity and responsibility of managing MEP design for a large development.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Coordination Case Studies: Showcase examples of successful multidisciplinary coordination, highlighting how conflicts were resolved and integration was achieved, preferably using BIM data.

• Design Review Documentation: Present examples of design review reports, technical assessments, or compliance checks conducted on MEP systems for large-scale projects, demonstrating attention to detail and understanding of standards.

• Value Engineering Proposals: Include instances where you contributed to or led value engineering initiatives, detailing the proposed changes and their impact on cost, performance, and sustainability.

• Risk Mitigation Plans: Provide examples of design risk registers or mitigation strategies developed for complex MEP systems, illustrating your proactive approach to project challenges.

• Authority Approval Processes: Document your experience navigating and securing approvals from local authorities (e.g., DEWA, DCD) for MEP designs, showcasing your understanding of these specific governmental requirements.

Process Documentation:

• Design Management Workflow: Demonstrate a clear, structured workflow for managing MEP design from inception to construction, including stages, key activities, deliverables, and approval gates.

• Stakeholder Communication Protocols: Outline your approach to establishing and maintaining effective communication channels with all project stakeholders, including reporting structures and meeting cadences.

• Change Management Procedure: Illustrate a robust process for managing design changes, including impact assessment, approval workflows, and documentation updates.

• Quality Assurance & Control: Detail your methodology for ensuring the quality and accuracy of MEP design deliverables, including review cycles, checklists, and sign-off procedures.

• BIM Implementation Strategy: If applicable, provide insights into how BIM was leveraged for design coordination, clash detection, and information management on past projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations professionals in engineering and construction management, a portfolio demonstrating practical application of design management principles, stakeholder coordination, and compliance with regulatory frameworks is crucial. Emphasis should be placed on quantifiable achievements and process efficiency.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for MEP Design Managers with 5-10 years of experience in Dubai, a competitive annual salary range is estimated to be between AED 250,000 - AED 400,000 (approximately USD 68,000 - USD 109,000). This range is dependent on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and negotiation. Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical insurance coverage for employees and potentially dependents.

• Annual Leave: Generous paid annual leave entitlement, in line with UAE labor law and company policy.

• Flight Tickets: Potential provision of annual flight tickets for expatriate employees to their home country.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and professional development to enhance skills in MEP design, project management, and sustainability.

• End-of-Service Gratuity: As per UAE Labour Law.

• Flexible Working Options: The company explicitly mentions openness to discussing flexible working arrangements, which could include adjusted hours or hybrid options if feasible within the role's demands.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week, often operating on a Sunday to Thursday schedule, with potential for extended hours during peak project phases. The company is open to discussing flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimation is based on research of similar roles in the Dubai construction and engineering sector, considering the experience level and responsibilities outlined. Benefits are typical for reputable international firms operating in the UAE, with specific mention of flexibility being a key differentiator.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction & Consultancy. Mace operates at the intersection of construction expertise and strategic consultancy, offering end-to-end solutions for complex projects.

Company Size: Mace is a global company with a significant workforce, typically falling into the 10,000+ employees category, indicating a well-established corporate structure with extensive resources and opportunities.

Founded: Mace was founded in 1990, bringing over three decades of experience in delivering transformative projects worldwide. This longevity suggests a stable and experienced organization with a strong track record.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team: The MEP Design Manager will likely be part of a larger project delivery team, reporting to a Project Director or Head of Engineering. This team will include various discipline leads (architectural, structural, infrastructure, commercial).

• Reporting Structure: The role involves managing direct reports within the MEP design team (e.g., MEP Engineers, Coordinators) and extensive collaboration with external consultants and contractors.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The position demands close collaboration with architectural, structural, infrastructure, commercial, procurement, and construction management teams to ensure integrated project delivery.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Mace emphasizes a data-driven approach to project management, leveraging insights for performance optimization and risk mitigation.

• Integrated Project Delivery: The company promotes collaborative methodologies to ensure all project stakeholders work cohesively towards shared goals.

• Continuous Improvement: A core value, Mace fosters a culture of ongoing learning and process enhancement to drive efficiency and innovation.

Company Website: https://www.macegroup.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Mace's culture is characterized by a commitment to safety, client focus, integrity, and employee development. The global presence and diverse project portfolio indicate a dynamic work environment with opportunities for exposure to various challenges and best practices. The company's emphasis on sustainability and net-zero ambitions is a key differentiator.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is considered a senior-level position within the engineering and project management domain. It requires a blend of technical expertise in MEP systems, strong design management capabilities, and proven leadership skills to oversee complex design processes and manage multidisciplinary teams.

Reporting Structure: The MEP Design Manager typically reports to a Project Director, Construction Director, or Head of Engineering on a specific project. They will likely manage a team of MEP engineers and coordinators, and will be responsible for managing the performance and deliverables of external MEP design consultants.

Operations Impact: The MEP Design Manager's role is critical to the success of the project. Effective MEP design directly impacts the functionality, sustainability, operational efficiency, safety, and overall cost-effectiveness of the development. Their decisions influence buildability, energy consumption, maintenance requirements, and the end-user experience, ultimately contributing significantly to the project's profitability and client satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific MEP systems (e.g., advanced HVAC, complex fire suppression, smart building technologies) or sustainability design.

• Project Leadership: Advance into roles such as Lead MEP Manager on larger, more complex international projects, or transition into broader Project Management roles.

• Consultancy Expansion: Move into a strategic consultancy role within Mace, advising on MEP strategy, sustainability, and technical due diligence for a portfolio of projects.

• Leadership Development: Participate in Mace's leadership development programs, focusing on strategic thinking, stakeholder management, and executive presence.

• Sector Diversification: Gain exposure to other project sectors Mace operates in, such as commercial, healthcare, or infrastructure, broadening industry experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for an MEP Design Manager at a firm like Mace is well-defined, offering progression from technical leadership to broader project and strategic management roles. The company's global reach provides ample opportunities for international experience and career diversification.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is primarily on-site, integrated within the project's operational hub. It will likely involve a mix of office-based work for design coordination, meetings, and documentation, as well as site visits to oversee construction progress and resolve site-specific design queries.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is the project site in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Mace may also have a corporate office in Dubai where certain administrative or strategic meetings could take place.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect a dynamic, collaborative office space within the project site, fostering close interaction with site engineers, construction managers, architects, and other consultants.

• Tools and Technology: Access to standard office equipment, project management software, communication platforms, and potentially specialized MEP design and BIM software.

• Team Interaction: Frequent team meetings, design review sessions, site walks, and stakeholder presentations will be integral to the daily workflow.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule will be full-time, typically 40 hours per week, Sunday to Thursday. However, given the nature of large-scale construction projects, there may be a requirement for extended working hours or weekend work during critical project phases or to meet urgent deadlines. The company has indicated openness to discussing flexibility, which may apply to daily start/end times where operationally feasible.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role in Dubai necessitates adaptability to a fast-paced project environment. While office-based tasks are involved, regular site engagement is expected for effective MEP design management and oversight.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application to assess alignment with the core requirements, particularly experience in MEP design management for large-scale developments and knowledge of UAE regulations.

• Technical Interview: Likely conducted by a senior engineering manager or project director. This stage will delve into your technical expertise in MEP systems, design management methodologies, understanding of BIM, and experience with specific project challenges. Be prepared to discuss your approach to multidisciplinary coordination and risk management.

• Stakeholder/Cultural Fit Interview: This may involve meeting with other project leads or HR representatives to assess your collaboration style, communication skills, problem-solving approach, and alignment with Mace's values (Safety First, Client Focus, Integrity, Create Opportunity).

• Case Study Presentation (Potential): You might be asked to present a portfolio of your work or a specific case study demonstrating your experience in managing a complex MEP design challenge, including problem identification, solution development, implementation, and outcomes.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive or hiring manager to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and final terms.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate for Relevance: Select examples that directly showcase your MEP design management experience on large-scale projects, ideally in similar sectors (residential, mixed-use, commercial).

• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use numbers and data to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., cost savings achieved through value engineering, reduction in design clashes, adherence to schedule).

• Highlight Process & Methodology: Clearly articulate the processes you followed for design coordination, stakeholder engagement, risk management, and compliance. Use visual aids like workflow diagrams if helpful.

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: For each case study, clearly outline the challenge, your proposed solution, the steps taken, and the final outcome.

• Showcase Technical Acumen: Include examples that highlight your understanding of specific MEP systems, UAE codes, and international standards.

• BIM Integration: If BIM was used, demonstrate how it facilitated coordination and improved design outcomes.

Challenge Preparation:

• MEP Design Scenarios: Be ready to discuss hypothetical design challenges, such as resolving clashes between MEP and structural elements, addressing unforeseen site conditions, or optimizing energy efficiency within budget constraints.

• Stakeholder Management Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would manage difficult stakeholders, negotiate design compromises, or gain buy-in for technical recommendations.

• UAE Regulatory Questions: Refresh your knowledge on key DEWA, DCD, and DM requirements for MEP systems in Dubai.

• Mace Values Alignment: Think about specific examples from your career that demonstrate how you have embodied Mace's core values.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess technical competence, project management skills, and cultural fit. A well-prepared portfolio that highlights quantifiable achievements and clear methodologies will be a significant asset.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• MEP Design Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD and BIM software is essential. This includes:

  • Revit MEP: For 3D modeling, coordination, clash detection, and generating construction documents.
  • AutoCAD MEP: For 2D design and drafting.
  • Navisworks: For model aggregation, clash detection, and 4D/5D simulation.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with platforms like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar for programme management and tracking.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or other enterprise collaboration suites for communication and document sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• BIM Analytics Tools: Tools integrated with BIM software (e.g., within Revit or Navisworks) for analyzing model data, quantities, and clash reports.

• Reporting Dashboards: Ability to create and interpret performance reports using tools like Microsoft Excel, Power BI, or Tableau to track design progress, risks, and compliance.

CRM & Automation:

• Document Management Systems: Experience with enterprise-level document control systems (e.g., Aconex, Procore) for managing project documentation, drawings, and transmittals.

• Workflow Automation: While not explicitly a primary tool for this role, an understanding of how workflow automation can streamline design review and approval processes is beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in BIM software, particularly Revit MEP and Navisworks, is critical for this role. Familiarity with project management and document control systems common in large construction projects is also highly valued.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First - Going Home Safe and Well: A paramount value at Mace. Expect a strong emphasis on safety protocols in design and site operations, with a culture that prioritizes well-being and encourages reporting of hazards.

• Client Focus - Deliver on Our Promise: A commitment to understanding and exceeding client expectations. This translates to a focus on delivering high-quality designs that meet project objectives and build long-term relationships.

• Integrity - Always Do the Right Thing: Upholding ethical standards and compliance obligations in all dealings. This means transparent communication, honest reporting, and adherence to regulations.

• Create Opportunity - For Our People to Excel: A culture that champions continuous improvement, professional development, and skill enhancement. Expect opportunities for learning, growth, and taking on new challenges.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Team Approach: Collaboration is key, with a strong emphasis on working closely with all project disciplines, consultants, and contractors. Expect regular cross-functional meetings and joint problem-solving sessions.

• Open Communication: A culture that encourages open dialogue, constructive feedback, and the sharing of best practices.

• Proactive Engagement: Team members are expected to be proactive in identifying potential issues, proposing solutions, and contributing to the overall success of the project.

📝 Enhancement Note: Mace's core values are deeply embedded in their operational approach. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate how their work ethic and professional conduct align with these principles, particularly in relation to safety and client delivery.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Stakeholder Management: Navigating the diverse interests and expectations of clients, consultants, contractors, and authorities in a high-pressure environment.

• MEP System Integration: Ensuring seamless integration of various MEP systems (HVAC, electrical, public health, fire safety, IT) with architectural and structural elements, especially in a large-scale, integrated development.

• Regulatory Compliance: Staying abreast of and ensuring adherence to evolving UAE building codes and authority regulations, which can be intricate and subject to change.

• Sustainability Targets: Balancing ambitious sustainability and net-zero goals with project budget and timeline constraints.

• Fast-Paced Development Environment: Adapting to the dynamic nature of construction projects, where timelines are often aggressive and changes can occur rapidly.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced MEP Design & Technology: Exposure to cutting-edge MEP technologies, sustainable design strategies, and smart building systems.

• Project Management Skills: Opportunities to enhance skills in project planning, risk management, commercial awareness, and contract administration within a large project context.

• Leadership Development: Participation in Mace's formal leadership training programs designed to cultivate future leaders within the organization.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining invaluable experience on a landmark development project in a thriving global city like Dubai.

• Networking: Building a strong professional network with industry leaders, consultants, and contractors in the UAE construction sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior roles in large construction projects. Mace's commitment to learning and development offers a clear path for professionals to grow their expertise and leadership capabilities within the organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing the MEP design process for a large-scale residential community. What are the key stages and critical success factors?" (Focus on structured methodologies, stakeholder engagement, and risk mitigation).

• "How do you ensure effective multidisciplinary coordination between MEP, architectural, and structural teams, particularly when using BIM?" (Highlight BIM coordination processes, clash detection, and communication protocols).

• "Walk me through a time you had to resolve a significant design conflict or challenge on a major project. What was the situation, your approach, and the outcome?" (Use the STAR method to demonstrate problem-solving and technical expertise). Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do Mace's core values (Safety First, Client Focus, Integrity, Create Opportunity) resonate with your professional approach?" (Provide specific examples from your experience that align with these values).

• "What is your understanding of sustainability and net-zero ambitions in the context of MEP design for large developments?" (Showcase knowledge of energy efficiency, sustainable materials, and relevant technologies).

• "How would you foster a collaborative environment within the project team and with external consultants?" (Discuss communication strategies, meeting structures, and conflict resolution). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, clearly articulate the project context, the specific MEP design challenge, your role and responsibilities, the solutions implemented, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, performance improvements, compliance achieved).

• Visualize Your Work: Use diagrams, flowcharts, and relevant visuals (renderings, BIM screenshots) to illustrate your points and make your presentation engaging.

• Highlight Process and Metrics: Emphasize the processes you followed and the key performance indicators (KPIs) you tracked or influenced. Quantify your achievements whenever possible.

• Tailor to Mace: Demonstrate an understanding of Mace's project type and values, and explain how your experience and approach would benefit this specific project and organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a structured, proactive, and collaborative approach to MEP design management, with a strong emphasis on technical competence, regulatory knowledge, and alignment with Mace's corporate values.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Mace careers portal via the provided link.

• Optimize Your CV: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in MEP design management for large-scale residential, mixed-use, or commercial developments. Clearly list your technical skills, software proficiency (Revit MEP, Navisworks), and any relevant professional memberships (CIBSE, IET). Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your best work that demonstrates your capabilities in design coordination, stakeholder management, problem-solving, and compliance with UAE regulations. Focus on case studies with quantifiable results and clear process explanations.

• Research Mace: Thoroughly understand Mace's company profile, their values, recent projects, and their commitment to sustainability and net-zero initiatives. Be prepared to articulate how your skills and experience align with their mission and this specific project.

• Practice Your Interview Responses: Prepare to answer technical, behavioral, and situational questions using the STAR method. Rehearse your portfolio presentation, ensuring you can clearly articulate your contributions and achievements.

⚠️ 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.