Utilities Design Director

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Utilities Design Director

Company: Parsons Corporation

Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (King Salman Int'l. Airport - Infrastructure)

Job Type: Full time

Category: Infrastructure & Utilities Operations / GTM Strategy

Date Posted: 2026-08-30

Experience Level: 25+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Provide executive leadership and strategic direction for all utilities design activities within a major airport development program.

• Establish comprehensive utilities engineering strategies, technical governance frameworks, and delivery objectives.

• Lead and manage multidisciplinary utilities design teams, ensuring alignment with project objectives, operational requirements, and sustainability targets.

• Oversee the development and review of complex utility systems including potable water, firefighting, stormwater, sewerage, irrigation, district cooling interfaces, power duct banks, and communication networks.

• Act as the senior technical representative for utilities design coordination with clients, airport authorities, utility providers, government agencies, consultants, and contractors.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for ensuring the successful integration and operational readiness of all utility systems for a massive airport infrastructure project. The focus is on strategic oversight, technical assurance, and high-level stakeholder management, indicating a senior leadership position within the operations and engineering domain. The GTM (Go-To-Market) aspect is indirectly addressed through ensuring the infrastructure supports future operational success and client satisfaction.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain utilities design review procedures and robust technical assurance processes to ensure compliance with international engineering standards, airport design requirements, local regulations, and client specifications.

• Lead the review and approval of utility master plans, engineering strategies, and infrastructure development plans, ensuring utility systems are appropriately sized, resilient, maintainable, and integrated with airport operational requirements.

• Oversee complex interfaces between utilities disciplines and other engineering functions such as civil infrastructure, airfield works, pavements, buildings, MEP, ICT, security, and airport operational systems, supporting BIM coordination and clash resolution.

• Provide executive-level technical reports, design status updates, risk assessments, and strategic recommendations to senior project leadership and client representatives, monitoring progress against project milestones.

• Drive technical risk assessments and mitigation planning for utilities designs, identifying risks affecting cost, schedule, safety, and operational performance, and supporting the implementation of lessons learned.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a deep focus on technical governance, interdisciplinary coordination, and risk management, which are core to successful infrastructure operations. The emphasis on strategic reporting and stakeholder management points to a role that bridges technical execution with business objectives, aligning with a GTM perspective by ensuring the foundational infrastructure is sound for future business operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related Engineering discipline.

• Master's Degree in Infrastructure Engineering, Utilities Engineering, or a related field is preferred. Experience:

• Minimum 25 years of comprehensive experience in utilities engineering, infrastructure design, and technical leadership.

• Proven track record leading utilities design delivery for major international airport developments, aviation infrastructure programs, large-scale transportation projects, and complex infrastructure developments.

• Extensive experience with wet and dry utility networks, airport utility master planning, infrastructure integration, multidisciplinary design management, and design assurance/technical governance.

• Demonstrated experience managing large engineering teams, consultants, and contractors effectively. Required Skills:

• Extensive knowledge of utility infrastructure planning, design principles, and construction methodologies, with a strong understanding of airport infrastructure requirements and operational constraints.

• Advanced knowledge of international utility standards, codes, and engineering practices, including experience with hydraulic modeling tools such as WaterGEMS, SewerGEMS, InfoWorks, StormCAD, or equivalent.

• Strong understanding of BIM, digital engineering, and asset information management principles.

• Excellent leadership, strategic planning, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to manage complex technical decisions and multidisciplinary interfaces effectively.

• Proven ability to operate effectively at executive and project leadership levels, providing clear and concise technical reporting and advisory. Preferred Skills:

• Chartered Engineer (CEng), Professional Engineer (PE), or equivalent professional registration.

• Extensive experience on international airport mega-projects and greenfield airport developments.

• Knowledge of ICAO, FAA, NFPA, AWWA, BS/EN standards, and specific airport infrastructure requirements.

• Experience working under FIDIC or similar international contract frameworks.

• Experience supporting Design-Build, EPC, PMC, or Delivery Partner project delivery models.

• Experience leading utilities strategy for smart airports and sustainable infrastructure developments.

• Strong experience managing client relationships, authorities, and major engineering consultants.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive experience requirement (25+ years) and the specific mention of international standards and mega-projects underscore the seniority and complexity of this role. The preference for advanced degrees and professional registrations indicates a commitment to technical excellence. The inclusion of BIM, digital engineering, and smart airport experience points to a forward-looking approach to infrastructure operations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable evidence of leading and managing the design of complex utility networks for large-scale infrastructure projects, particularly airports.

• Case studies showcasing strategic planning and execution of utility master plans, highlighting system integration and capacity planning.

• Examples of technical governance frameworks and design assurance processes implemented to ensure compliance and quality.

• Documentation illustrating successful management of multidisciplinary design teams and coordination of complex interfaces across various engineering disciplines.

• Proof of experience in resolving significant technical challenges during design and construction phases, with a focus on practical, constructible solutions. Process Documentation:

• Examples of utility system design methodologies, including hydraulic modeling reports and calculations that demonstrate adherence to international standards.

• Workflow diagrams or process maps illustrating the stages of utility design review, approval, and technical assurance.

• Documentation outlining strategies for managing interfaces between underground utilities, buildings, and airfield infrastructure, including BIM coordination.

• Records of stakeholder engagement and authority approvals related to utility infrastructure development, demonstrating effective communication and negotiation.

• Risk assessment reports and mitigation plans developed for utilities design projects, showcasing proactive problem-solving and compliance management.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role of this seniority, a portfolio is expected to showcase strategic impact and leadership in complex project environments. It should not only detail technical contributions but also demonstrate the ability to manage large teams, navigate regulatory landscapes, and drive successful project outcomes through robust process implementation. The emphasis on airports and mega-projects is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Given the executive nature of the role, the extensive experience required (25+ years), the critical nature of the project (major international airport development), and the location (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia), the estimated annual salary range for a Utilities Design Director would be between $200,000 - $350,000 USD.

Methodology for Salary Estimation:

• Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is a major economic hub with a high cost of living and demand for specialized engineering talent, especially for mega-projects. Salaries in this region for senior international roles are typically competitive and often include benefits packages that account for expatriate status if applicable.

• Experience Level: 25+ years of highly specialized experience in utilities design for major international airports is rare and commands a premium.

• Role Seniority: A Director-level position with strategic leadership, technical governance, and executive advisory responsibilities is at the top tier of engineering roles.

• Industry Benchmarks: Based on industry data for similar senior engineering leadership roles in large-scale infrastructure and aviation projects globally, and specifically within the Middle East, this range is consistent. Parsons Corporation, as a major global engineering firm, typically offers competitive compensation for such critical positions.

• Project Scale: The King Salman International Airport development is a mega-project, requiring top-tier expertise and thus offering commensurate compensation.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.

• Generous paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and public holidays.

• Retirement savings plan or end-of-service benefits, compliant with Saudi Arabian labor laws.

• Relocation assistance and housing allowance/allowances for expatriate employees.

• Professional development opportunities, including training, certifications, and conference attendance.

• Life insurance and disability coverage.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses and long-term incentive plans.

• Access to company-provided transportation or travel allowances. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday. However, given the project's scale and critical deadlines, occasional extended hours, weekend work, or on-call duties may be required to meet project milestones and address urgent operational needs. Flexibility and commitment to project delivery are expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on a comprehensive assessment of market rates for senior engineering leadership in the specified region and industry. The benefits package is tailored to reflect typical offerings for international assignments in Saudi Arabia, including considerations for expatriate employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Construction, and Consulting Services, with a strong focus on infrastructure, defense, intelligence, and technology. Parsons is a global leader in delivering innovative solutions in complex environments.

Company Size: Parsons is a large corporation, typically categorized as having over 10,000 employees globally. This signifies a well-established organization with robust processes, extensive resources, and opportunities for career advancement.

Founded: Parsons was founded in 1944, indicating a long history of experience and stability in the engineering and construction industry.

Team Structure:

• The Utilities Design Director will likely lead a significant division or department focused on utility engineering within the broader airport development program. This team will comprise various specialists such as civil engineers, hydraulic engineers, electrical engineers (for power distribution), ICT specialists, and potentially environmental engineers.

• The reporting structure would place the Director reporting to a Project Director, Program Director, or a senior executive overseeing infrastructure development for the airport. They will manage a team of senior engineers, discipline leads, and potentially design managers.

• Cross-functional collaboration is paramount, requiring close working relationships with airfield design teams, architectural and building services engineers, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) specialists, IT and communications teams, procurement, construction, and project controls. Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: The team will rely on sophisticated data analysis for utility load forecasting, hydraulic modeling, and performance optimization, using tools like WaterGEMS, SewerGEMS, and BIM platforms.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: A structured approach to design management, incorporating stage-gate reviews, technical assurance, and value engineering, will be employed to ensure efficient and high-quality delivery.

• Automation & Efficiency: Embracing digital engineering tools, BIM, and potentially AI-driven analysis to streamline design processes, improve coordination, and enhance the maintainability of utility assets.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history and large size suggest a stable, resource-rich environment with established operational frameworks. The emphasis on digital engineering and smart infrastructure aligns with modern industry trends, offering a dynamic work environment for operations and engineering professionals.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an Executive/Director-level position within the infrastructure operations and engineering domain. The scope is strategic, involving high-level decision-making, technical leadership, and program-wide impact. It represents a pinnacle in specialized infrastructure design management.

Reporting Structure: The Utilities Design Director will report to a senior executive overseeing the entire airport development program (e.g., Program Director, Executive Vice President of Infrastructure). They will directly manage a team of senior engineering professionals and discipline leads, influencing the direction of a critical functional area.

Operations Impact: The role has a profound impact on the project's success, directly influencing its operational readiness, long-term efficiency, sustainability, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Successful utility design is foundational to the airport's ability to function and generate revenue.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Leadership Expansion: Potential to move into broader program management roles, overseeing multiple infrastructure disciplines or entire project portfolios within Parsons.

• Strategic Development: Opportunity to shape Parsons' global strategy for utility design and infrastructure solutions, contributing to business development and innovation.

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in cutting-edge areas like smart city utilities, sustainable infrastructure, and advanced digital engineering within the aviation sector.

• Mentorship: Guide and mentor emerging talent within Parsons' engineering and operations teams, fostering a culture of technical excellence and knowledge transfer.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is not merely about technical execution but about strategic leadership and shaping the future of infrastructure operations. Growth opportunities focus on expanding leadership scope, influencing organizational strategy, and advancing technical expertise in a highly specialized and critical field.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This position is based on-site at the King Salman International Airport project in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This implies a dynamic, project-driven environment that may include both a dedicated project office and potentially site visits to construction areas.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, specifically associated with the King Salman International Airport infrastructure development. This location offers significant professional development opportunities within a rapidly growing and ambitious region.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect a highly collaborative workspace, with frequent interaction with a diverse, multidisciplinary team of engineers, project managers, consultants, and client representatives from various global backgrounds.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to state-of-the-art design software, BIM platforms, communication tools, and project management systems is standard for a project of this magnitude. The environment fosters the use of advanced digital engineering solutions.

• Team Interaction: Regular meetings, design reviews, workshops, and site inspections will be integral to the role, facilitating constant communication and problem-solving among team members and stakeholders.

Work Schedule: While the standard workweek is typically Monday to Friday, the demands of a major international airport project often necessitate flexibility. This can include occasional extended hours, weekend work, and being available for urgent consultations to ensure project timelines and operational continuity are maintained. The role requires a commitment to delivering critical infrastructure on schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Riyadh underscores the hands-on, project-intensive nature of this role. The work environment is characterized by high stakes, intense collaboration, and the use of advanced technology to manage a complex, large-scale infrastructure project.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR and/or recruitment team will review applications to ensure basic qualifications and experience match the role's requirements.

• Technical Interview 1: Likely with a senior engineering manager or director within Parsons' infrastructure division to assess technical depth, utilities design expertise, and relevant project experience. Expect detailed questions on utility systems, master planning, and international standards.

• Portfolio Review & Presentation: Candidates will be asked to present a selection of their most relevant work, focusing on large-scale airport or infrastructure projects. This will involve discussing strategic decisions, technical challenges, team management, and outcomes.

• Executive Interview: A meeting with a senior executive (e.g., Project Director, VP of Operations) to evaluate leadership capabilities, strategic thinking, stakeholder management skills, and cultural fit within Parsons and the project team.

• Final Round/Offer: May involve further discussions with key stakeholders or a final offer negotiation.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Strategic Focus: Emphasize projects that showcase your leadership in utility master planning, design governance, and complex interface management for major infrastructure, specifically airports.

• Process Optimization: Highlight instances where you implemented improved design processes, value engineering, or risk mitigation strategies that led to significant cost savings, schedule adherence, or enhanced operational efficiency.

• Metrics & Impact: Quantify your achievements whenever possible. For example, discuss the scale of utility networks managed (e.g., flow rates, capacities), the size of teams led, budget oversight, and contributions to successful project delivery or operational readiness.

• Technical Depth & Breadth: Be prepared to discuss specific technical challenges related to water, wastewater, drainage, power, and communications utilities in an airport context, and how you guided your teams to solutions.

• Stakeholder Management: Showcase examples of successful collaboration with clients, authorities, and diverse consultant teams, demonstrating your ability to navigate complex relationships and secure approvals.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be ready for hypothetical scenarios related to utility design challenges on a major airport project (e.g., unexpected ground conditions, integration with existing systems, regulatory hurdles, sustainability requirements). Your responses should demonstrate structured problem-solving, technical acumen, and leadership.

• Strategic Thinking: Prepare to discuss your approach to developing utility master plans, establishing technical governance, managing design risks, and ensuring the long-term operability and resilience of airport utilities.

• Leadership & Team Management: Anticipate questions about your leadership style, how you motivate and manage large, diverse engineering teams, and how you foster collaboration and accountability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to rigorously assess both technical expertise and leadership capabilities at a senior level. A well-prepared, impactful portfolio presentation is crucial for demonstrating strategic thinking and proven success in managing complex infrastructure operations.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Hydraulic Modeling Software: Extensive experience with industry-standard tools such as WaterGEMS, SewerGEMS, InfoWorks, StormCAD, EPANET, or similar for water distribution, wastewater collection, and stormwater management.

• BIM & Digital Engineering Platforms: Proficiency in working with and overseeing the use of BIM (Building Information Modeling) software (e.g., Autodesk Revit, Navisworks) and digital engineering workflows for design coordination, clash detection, and asset information management.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with enterprise-level project management tools (e.g., Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, Oracle Aconex) for scheduling, progress tracking, and resource allocation.

• CAD Software: Advanced knowledge of AutoCAD and potentially other CAD platforms for reviewing and understanding engineering drawings.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret and leverage data from hydraulic models, GIS systems, and project databases to inform design decisions and performance assessments.

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience with creating or overseeing the creation of executive-level reports and dashboards to communicate design status, risks, and strategic recommendations.

CRM & Automation:

• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems: Familiarity with large-scale ERP systems for managing project resources, finances, and procurement aspects relevant to design services.

• Collaboration Platforms: Proficient use of collaborative tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication, document sharing, and project coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires not just familiarity but leadership in the application of advanced digital tools and sophisticated modeling software to manage complex utility infrastructure design and integration. The emphasis is on leveraging technology for efficiency, accuracy, and long-term asset management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Innovation: A commitment to delivering world-class engineering solutions, pushing boundaries in design and technology for optimal infrastructure performance.

• Integrity & Safety: Upholding the highest ethical standards and prioritizing safety in all design considerations, ensuring the well-being of future users and operators.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a cohesive environment where diverse expertise is valued, and cross-functional teams work synergistically towards common project goals.

• Client Focus & Delivery: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations, ensuring timely and effective delivery of critical infrastructure projects.

• Sustainability & Resilience: Embedding principles of environmental responsibility and long-term system durability into all design strategies.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive & Integrated: Encourages early and continuous engagement with all project stakeholders, ensuring seamless integration of utility designs with other disciplines and operational requirements.

• Data-Driven & Analytical: Decisions are based on rigorous technical analysis, modeling, and empirical data, promoting a culture of evidence-based problem-solving.

• Constructive Feedback & Continuous Improvement: Promotes an environment where feedback is openly shared and utilized to refine processes, optimize designs, and enhance team performance.

• Knowledge Sharing: Actively facilitates the sharing of technical knowledge and best practices across teams and disciplines to build collective expertise and capability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture and values emphasize high performance, ethical conduct, and collaborative problem-solving, essential for managing a project of this magnitude and complexity. A candidate's ability to embody these values will be key to their success and integration within the team.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Integration: Managing the intricate interdependencies of various utility systems (water, sewer, drainage, power, communications) within a large, dynamic airport environment presents significant design and coordination challenges.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Balancing the diverse needs and expectations of multiple stakeholders, including the client, airport authorities, utility providers, and regulatory bodies, can be demanding.

• Future-Proofing Infrastructure: Designing utilities that not only meet current operational demands but also anticipate future technological advancements, capacity increases, and sustainability requirements for a long-lifecycle asset.

• Navigating Regulatory Landscapes: Ensuring strict adherence to a multitude of international, national, and local standards, codes, and permitting processes, particularly in a foreign jurisdiction.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Exposure to Mega-Projects: Unparalleled experience in managing utilities for one of the world's largest airport development projects, offering immense professional growth.

• Advanced Digital Technologies: Opportunity to lead and implement cutting-edge digital engineering, BIM, and smart infrastructure solutions in a real-world, large-scale application.

• International Project Management: Gaining deep insights into managing complex, international projects with diverse teams and regulatory frameworks.

• Executive Leadership Training: Potential access to internal or external leadership development programs tailored for senior executives within large engineering firms.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical of mega-infrastructure projects and offer significant opportunities for professional development. Overcoming these challenges will require strong technical leadership, strategic planning, and exceptional stakeholder management skills.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to developing a comprehensive utility master plan for a greenfield international airport project. What are the critical components and considerations?" (Focus on structured planning, data inputs, stakeholder consultation, and long-term scalability).

• "How do you establish and enforce technical governance and design assurance for complex utility systems across multiple engineering disciplines and international standards?" (Highlight processes, review stages, risk management, and quality control mechanisms).

• "Walk me through a challenging situation where you had to manage critical interfaces between utility design and other airport infrastructure elements (e.g., airfield, terminals, MEP). How did you resolve it?" (Demonstrate problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills using a specific case study). Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of Parsons and this project, how would you ensure the utility design aligns with the company's values of innovation, integrity, and client focus?" (Show research into Parsons' mission and demonstrate how your leadership style supports these values).

• "How do you foster a collaborative and high-performing culture within a large, multidisciplinary engineering team, especially in an international project setting?" (Discuss your leadership philosophy, team-building strategies, and conflict resolution approaches).

• "How do you measure and demonstrate the operational impact and ROI of utility design decisions to executive stakeholders?" (Focus on key performance indicators, cost-benefit analysis, and effective reporting techniques). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with an executive summary of your career and key achievements. For each project example, clearly state the scope, your role, the challenges, your strategic approach, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable outcomes.

• Focus on Leadership: Emphasize your role in strategic decision-making, team leadership, stakeholder management, and process improvement, rather than just technical details.

• Visual Aids: Use clear, concise slides with diagrams, charts, and key metrics to illustrate complex concepts and achievements. Ensure any proprietary information is anonymized or presented with appropriate permissions.

• Relevance: Prioritize examples that most closely align with the requirements of the Utilities Design Director role, particularly large-scale airport or infrastructure projects.

• Narrative: Tell a compelling story about how your leadership and expertise contributed to the successful delivery of critical utility infrastructure.

📝 Enhancement Note: Thorough preparation for these types of questions and a compelling portfolio presentation will be critical for success. Demonstrating strategic thinking, proven leadership, and deep technical expertise in the context of large-scale infrastructure operations is paramount.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday portal link: https://parsons.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/Search/job/SA---Riyadh/Utilities-Design-Director_R183806

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your extensive experience (25+ years) in utilities design, infrastructure planning, and leadership for major international airport developments. Use keywords from the job description such as "Utilities Design Director," "Airport Development," "Infrastructure," "Technical Governance," and "Multidisciplinary Coordination." Quantify achievements with specific project scales, team sizes, and outcomes.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your most impactful projects that demonstrate your strategic leadership in utility master planning, design assurance, and complex interface management. Focus on case studies that showcase problem-solving, stakeholder management, and successful project delivery for large-scale infrastructure.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse your portfolio presentation, focusing on clearly articulating your strategic approach, technical decision-making, and leadership impact. Be prepared to answer in-depth questions regarding your experience and methodologies.

• Research Parsons & the Project: Gain a deep understanding of Parsons Corporation's global operations, their approach to mega-projects, and the specific goals and context of the King Salman International Airport development. Familiarize yourself with their stated values and culture to articulate your alignment.

⚠️ 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.