Senior Design Manager - Electrical

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager - Electrical

Company: AtkinsRéalis

Location: Saudi Arabia (Site Office)

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Engineering & Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-06-21

Experience Level: 20+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end electrical design process for high-end hospitality and leisure projects, from initial concept through to the Issued For Construction (IFC) stage.

• Oversee the strategic implementation of critical electrical systems, including power distribution, advanced lighting solutions, and integrated ELV (Extra-Low Voltage) systems such as ICT, security, and Audio-Visual (AV).

• Ensure rigorous adherence to all pertinent local (Saudi Electrical Code) and international electrical design standards and regulations, prioritizing safety and reliability.

• Drive innovation in the integration of smart building technologies and energy efficiency solutions to enhance guest experience and operational sustainability.

• Manage and mentor external design consultants, conducting thorough reviews to guarantee the highest quality of design output and alignment with project objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior leadership position within the engineering and design function, specifically focusing on electrical systems for complex hospitality and leisure developments. The emphasis is on comprehensive project lifecycle management, strategic system integration, and quality assurance of design deliverables.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage the complete electrical design lifecycle for hospitality and leisure assets, from conceptual design development through to the final Issued For Construction (IFC) documentation.

• Direct the design and integration of robust power distribution networks, sophisticated lighting schemes, and comprehensive ELV systems, including Information and Communication Technology (ICT), security, and Audio-Visual (AV) components.

• Ensure all electrical designs strictly comply with the Saudi Electrical Code and relevant international standards, codes, and best practices.

• Foster seamless integration of electrical designs by coordinating closely with architectural teams, Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) disciplines, and other project stakeholders.

• Spearhead the adoption of cutting-edge smart building technologies and energy-saving initiatives to optimize operational performance and elevate the guest experience.

• Lead the selection, management, and performance evaluation of external design consultants, ensuring design quality and adherence to project specifications.

• Provide crucial technical support and oversight during the procurement, installation, testing, and commissioning phases of electrical systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, project management, and stakeholder engagement. The scope covers the entire design process and extends to supporting the execution phases, emphasizing a holistic approach to electrical system delivery within the hospitality sector.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering.

Experience: A minimum of 20 years of progressive experience in electrical design, with a significant emphasis on projects within the hospitality or mixed-use development sectors.

Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in managing electrical design development from concept to IFC stages.

• In-depth knowledge of power systems, including distribution, protection, and earthing.

• Strong proficiency in advanced lighting design principles and application, with a focus on creating enhanced guest experiences.

• Comprehensive understanding of ELV systems integration (ICT, security, AV, building management systems).

• Expert knowledge of the Saudi Electrical Code and relevant international electrical standards (e.g., IEE, NEC).

• Demonstrated ability to coordinate effectively with architects, MEP engineers, and other multidisciplinary teams.

• Familiarity with Building Information Modeling (BIM) workflows and its application in electrical design.

• Experience in managing external design consultants and ensuring design quality.

• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with smart building technologies and IoT integration in electrical systems.

• Knowledge of energy efficiency strategies and sustainable design practices in electrical installations.

• Familiarity with project management software and tools.

• Experience in supporting construction, testing, and commissioning phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a deep technical background in electrical engineering combined with extensive project experience in a specific sector (hospitality/mixed-use). The need for familiarity with Saudi codes and BIM points to the specific regional and technological demands of the role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 significant hospitality or mixed-use development projects where you held a senior electrical design management role.

• For each project, clearly articulate your specific responsibilities, design challenges encountered, and the solutions implemented.

• Provide evidence of managing electrical design from concept through to IFC, highlighting key deliverables at each stage.

• Demonstrate experience in integrating complex ELV systems and ensuring their seamless operation with core power infrastructure.

• Include examples of how you have applied Saudi Electrical Code and international standards in practice. Process Documentation:

• Prepare case studies that detail your approach to managing design consultants, including selection criteria, performance monitoring, and quality assurance processes.

• Document your methodology for coordinating electrical design with architectural and MEP disciplines to achieve integrated building solutions.

• Illustrate your process for evaluating and implementing smart building technologies and energy efficiency measures, including any ROI analysis if available.

• Be ready to discuss your approach to ensuring compliance with relevant codes and standards throughout the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating hands-on experience in complex hospitality projects and a clear understanding of design process management, consultant oversight, and regulatory compliance is crucial. The focus will be on practical application of knowledge and successful project delivery.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the seniority of the role (Senior Design Manager), extensive experience (20+ years), specialized sector focus (hospitality), and location (Saudi Arabia), a competitive tax-free salary is expected. Industry benchmarks for similar roles in major Saudi cities suggest a range between SAR 40,000 to SAR 65,000 per month, which is approximately USD 10,600 to USD 17,300 per month. This estimate is derived from aggregated data from global recruitment agencies specializing in engineering and construction in the GCC region, adjusted for cost of living and market demand for senior electrical engineering talent in Saudi Arabia.

Benefits:

• Tax-free salary.

• Comprehensive life insurance coverage.

• Robust medical insurance plan.

• Generous annual leave balance.

• Company-provided gratuity scheme.

• Eligibility for a discretionary bonus program.

• Annual flight contribution for home travel.

• Significant transportation allowance.

• Substantial housing allowance.

• Access to a 24/7 Employee Wellbeing Program offering specialists in finance, legal matters, family care, personal health, fitness, and nutrition.

Working Hours: Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, with potential for overtime depending on project demands. The role is on-site, requiring full-time presence at the designated project location in Saudi Arabia.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on market research for senior-level engineering roles in Saudi Arabia, considering the tax-free nature of income and the comprehensive benefits package. The benefits are extensive and designed to support expatriate employees and their families in Saudi Arabia.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: AtkinsRéalis operates within the Engineering Services and Nuclear sectors, focusing on transforming infrastructure and energy systems globally. Their expertise spans consulting, design, engineering, project management, and operations.

Company Size: AtkinsRéalis is a large, multinational corporation. While the precise size of the Saudi operations team isn't specified, the parent company employs tens of thousands of professionals worldwide, indicating a robust organizational structure and ample resources.

Founded: AtkinsRéalis has a long history, with its origins tracing back to 1911. This extensive legacy signifies stability, deep industry knowledge, and a proven track record in delivering complex projects.

Team Structure:

• The electrical design team is likely integrated within a larger MEP or Engineering, Procurement, and Construction Management (EPCM) division.

• This role reports to a Director of Engineering or a similar senior leadership position, overseeing multiple design managers and their respective project teams.

• Close collaboration is expected with project directors, architects, other MEP discipline leads (mechanical, plumbing), construction managers, and client representatives. Methodology:

• AtkinsRéalis emphasizes a data-driven approach to engineering, leveraging advanced analytics and digital tools for design optimization and performance monitoring.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, especially in managing complex, multi-disciplinary projects across different phases.

• Automation and efficiency are likely key drivers, with a focus on digital delivery platforms and integrated project management systems.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: As a global engineering leader, AtkinsRéalis likely fosters a culture of technical excellence, innovation, and rigorous project execution. The Saudi Arabian operations are significant, catering to major infrastructure and development projects in the region, requiring strong leadership and adherence to international standards.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Management position, indicating a leadership role with significant responsibility for strategic direction, team management, and project outcomes within the electrical design discipline for hospitality and leisure assets. It represents a high level of technical and project leadership within the organization.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager – Electrical will report to a higher-level executive, such as a Director of Engineering, VP of Operations, or a Project Director, depending on the specific organizational structure for the Saudi Arabian operations. They will likely manage a team of electrical engineers, designers, and potentially external consultants.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and substantial impact on the success of hospitality and leisure projects. Effective electrical design is fundamental to ensuring guest safety, comfort, operational efficiency, and the overall luxury experience expected in these developments. Poor design can lead to significant safety hazards, operational disruptions, and reputational damage.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Opportunities to deepen expertise in niche areas like smart hotel technologies, advanced power systems for large resorts, or sustainable energy solutions for luxury properties.

• Leadership Development: Potential to move into broader roles such as Head of MEP Design, Director of Engineering, or Program Director for large-scale development portfolios.

• Global Mobility: With AtkinsRéalis's international presence, there may be opportunities to transfer to other regions or lead projects in different market sectors.

• Industry Influence: Contribution to industry standards and best practices through participation in professional bodies or speaking engagements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a significant career step for an experienced electrical design professional, offering substantial responsibility and the potential for further advancement within a major global engineering firm, particularly within the booming hospitality sector in Saudi Arabia.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at a "Site Office" in Saudi Arabia, indicating a location directly connected to active construction or development projects. This environment is typically dynamic, fast-paced, and requires hands-on involvement at the project site.

Office Location(s): The specific site office location is not detailed beyond "Saudi Arabia Site Offices." This suggests that the role may be based at one of AtkinsRéalis's primary project hubs or field offices within the Kingdom, requiring regular presence at project sites.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be a mix of office-based design work and site visits.

• Collaboration will be crucial, involving close interaction with on-site construction teams, project managers, and other site-based engineering disciplines.

• Access to necessary design software, BIM platforms, and communication tools will be provided to facilitate design work and project coordination.

• The environment will demand adaptability, problem-solving on-the-spot, and effective communication across diverse teams.

Work Schedule: The role is Full-Time, with typical working hours expected to be standard business hours (e.g., 40 hours per week). However, due to the on-site nature and the demands of construction projects, flexibility and potential for extended hours or weekend work may be required to meet critical project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Site Office" designation implies a hands-on, project-centric work environment. Candidates should anticipate a blend of office-based design tasks and regular site visits, requiring strong logistical planning and adaptability to field conditions.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio to assess qualifications and relevant experience, particularly in hospitality design and Saudi codes.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion focusing on your electrical engineering expertise, project experience, and understanding of design principles, codes, and systems relevant to hospitality projects. Be prepared to discuss specific challenges and solutions from your past projects.

• Managerial/Leadership Interview: Assessment of your leadership style, team management capabilities, consultant oversight experience, and strategic thinking. This stage will likely involve behavioral questions.

• Case Study/Portfolio Presentation: You may be asked to present a detailed case study from your portfolio, demonstrating your approach to a complex electrical design challenge, your management of the design process, and the outcomes achieved.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive or regional director to discuss cultural fit, long-term career aspirations, and alignment with AtkinsRéalis's vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Select projects that are most relevant to high-end hospitality and leisure developments, showcasing your expertise in power, lighting, and ELV systems.

• For each project, clearly outline your role, responsibilities, the scale of the project, key design decisions, and quantifiable achievements (e.g., energy savings, compliance adherence, successful commissioning).

• Be prepared to walk through your design process, highlighting how you managed consultants, ensured quality, and integrated systems.

• Include examples of your understanding and application of the Saudi Electrical Code and international standards.

• If possible, include visual aids such as schematic diagrams, lighting layouts, or system integration diagrams to support your explanations. Challenge Preparation:

• Anticipate questions about managing design conflicts, resolving technical issues on-site, leading diverse teams, and ensuring project timelines are met.

• Be ready to discuss your approach to risk management in electrical design and how you mitigate potential safety hazards.

• Prepare examples of how you have driven innovation or implemented energy-efficient solutions in your previous roles.

• Understand AtkinsRéalis's values and recent projects in Saudi Arabia to demonstrate your interest and cultural fit.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be multi-stage, emphasizing both deep technical expertise and strong leadership/management capabilities. A well-curated portfolio that clearly demonstrates relevant experience and a structured approach to problem-solving will be critical for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Electrical Design Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical) and potentially specialized electrical design and analysis tools.

• Building Information Modeling (BIM): Strong familiarity with BIM platforms (e.g., Autodesk Revit MEP) for integrated design, clash detection, and documentation.

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar for project planning, scheduling, and tracking.

Analytics & Reporting:

• System Analysis Tools: Familiarity with software for power system analysis, load calculations, and potentially lighting simulation tools.

• Reporting Dashboards: Ability to interpret and contribute to project reports generated through project management or specialized engineering software.

CRM & Automation:

• Internal Collaboration Tools: Experience with enterprise communication and collaboration platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams, SharePoint) for team coordination and document sharing.

• ERP Systems: Familiarity with enterprise resource planning systems for project resource management and financial tracking.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in BIM and standard electrical design software is essential. The role also requires a strong understanding of project management tools and the ability to leverage technology for efficient design delivery and coordination within a large-scale project environment.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Technical Excellence: A commitment to high-quality, reliable, and safe electrical engineering solutions, driven by deep technical expertise and adherence to best practices.

• Innovation: Encouraging the adoption of new technologies, smart solutions, and sustainable practices to enhance project outcomes and guest experiences.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where open communication and mutual support among engineers, designers, and project stakeholders are paramount.

• Integrity & Safety: Upholding the highest ethical standards and prioritizing the safety of personnel and the public in all design and project execution activities.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, delivering projects that align with their vision and operational requirements.

Collaboration Style:

• Multidisciplinary Integration: A proactive approach to working with architects, mechanical, and plumbing engineers to ensure seamless building system integration and avoid design conflicts.

• Consultant Management: A structured and communicative approach to managing external design consultants, ensuring clear direction, timely feedback, and adherence to quality standards.

• Cross-Functional Communication: Effective engagement with project managers, construction teams, and procurement departments to ensure design intent is translated accurately into site execution.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of lessons learned and best practices within the design team to continuously improve processes and outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: AtkinsRéalis likely emphasizes a culture of professional rigor, teamwork, and a commitment to delivering complex projects successfully. The values align with a global engineering firm that prioritizes technical quality, safety, and client satisfaction.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex System Integration: Ensuring the seamless integration of diverse electrical systems (power, lighting, ELV, smart technologies) within large, sophisticated hospitality environments can be technically challenging.

• Strict Code Compliance: Navigating and adhering to the specific requirements of the Saudi Electrical Code and other local regulations, which can be stringent and require detailed understanding.

• Fast-Paced Project Environment: Managing design deliverables under tight deadlines common in the hospitality sector, especially during peak development phases.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Balancing the design requirements of various stakeholders, including owners, operators, and regulatory bodies, to achieve consensus.

• Talent Management: Leading and motivating a team of engineers and designers, potentially from diverse backgrounds, to achieve peak performance.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized training on emerging electrical technologies, smart building systems, and advanced power engineering.

• Project Leadership Skills: Opportunities to develop and hone skills in managing large-scale projects, leading multidisciplinary teams, and strategic decision-making.

• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining professional engineering licenses and relevant industry certifications.

• Mentorship Programs: Access to senior leaders within AtkinsRéalis for guidance and career development advice.

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Opportunity to work on a variety of high-profile hospitality and leisure projects, broadening experience across different scales and complexities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant challenges related to technical complexity and project management in a demanding sector. However, these challenges are balanced by substantial growth opportunities within a global organization, allowing for continuous professional development and career advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex electrical design challenge you faced on a hospitality project and how you resolved it, focusing on your problem-solving process and the outcome." (Focus on technical solution, impact, and leadership.)

• "How do you ensure compliance with local codes, such as the Saudi Electrical Code, when managing international design standards?" (Highlight your process for code research, interpretation, and implementation.)

• "Walk me through your approach to managing and reviewing the work of external electrical design consultants to ensure quality and efficiency." (Emphasize your consultant management framework, quality assurance steps, and communication strategies.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about AtkinsRéalis and this specific role within our Saudi Arabian operations?" (Research AtkinsRéalis's projects and values in the region.)

• "How do you foster a collaborative environment among your design team and with other project disciplines like architecture and MEP?" (Provide examples of your collaboration style and conflict resolution techniques.)

• "How do you measure the success of an electrical design beyond meeting technical specifications, particularly in enhancing guest experience and operational efficiency?" (Discuss metrics and qualitative assessments relevant to hospitality.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• "Select one project that best exemplifies your expertise in hospitality electrical design and present it, covering your role, key design decisions, challenges, and project outcomes." (Structure your presentation logically: project overview, your scope, technical solutions, coordination, results.)

• "Be prepared to specifically discuss how you integrated lighting design with guest experience and how you approached ELV system integration." (Have specific examples ready for these key areas.)

• "Demonstrate your understanding of BIM and its role in your design process, including any clash detection or coordination benefits you achieved." (Showcase your practical use of technology.)

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to articulate your technical expertise, leadership capabilities, and understanding of the hospitality sector's unique demands. A structured approach to presenting your portfolio and addressing behavioral questions will be key to demonstrating your suitability for this senior role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager - Electrical position:

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

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a digital portfolio showcasing 3-5 of your most relevant hospitality or mixed-use development projects. Ensure each project highlights your specific contributions, design challenges, innovative solutions, and adherence to codes like the Saudi Electrical Code.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize your 20+ years of electrical design experience, with a focus on leadership, project management, hospitality sector expertise, and proficiency in BIM and relevant codes. Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse your responses to potential interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples and technical scenarios relevant to electrical design management. Practice presenting your portfolio case studies concisely and effectively.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research AtkinsRéalis's recent projects in Saudi Arabia, their company values, and their approach to engineering and design. Understand their role in the region's development landscape.

⚠️ 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.