Lead Architect

Job description / Role

Job purpose

We are seeking an experienced lead architect to join our team in collaboration with a government entity on a strategic initiative aimed at unifying engineering and architectural standards, design codes, and technical specifications across public projects.

The selected candidate will lead a multidisciplinary team of engineers, architects, and technical specialists to develop a comprehensive standards and codes manual that ensures consistency, quality, and compliance across all design and construction activities.

This role requires a professional with extensive design and technical experience (minimum 15 years), strong command of local and international codes, and proven expertise in design governance and stakeholder coordination.

Key responsibilities and deliverables

• Lead the architectural workstream within the multidisciplinary team responsible for developing the engineering standards and codes manual.
• Supervise, review, and guide the work of architects and engineers to ensure alignment with project objectives.
• Ensure that all deliverables meet the highest technical and regulatory standards.
• Review, analyze, and benchmark existing national and international building codes, standards, and technical guidelines (e.g., Saudi Building Code, NFPA, ASHRAE, BS, ISO).
• Identify overlaps, inconsistencies, and gaps within existing frameworks to support the development of unified technical standards.
• Contribute to the drafting and structuring of the standards manual, covering architectural, structural, and MEP disciplines.
• Define standard design criteria, documentation formats, and best practices to enhance uniformity across government projects.
• Establish procedures for design review, approval, and compliance verification based on the new unified standards.
• Ensure all technical content is clear, applicable, and in accordance with local regulatory requirements.
• Provide expert technical opinions during workshops, stakeholder reviews, and government committee sessions.
• Collaborate closely with representatives from government agencies, ministries, consultants, and technical committees.
• Facilitate technical workshops and review sessions to validate proposed standards and design approaches.
• Ensure effective communication and coordination between internal project teams and external stakeholders.
• Oversee the development of comprehensive manuals, guidelines, and templates for standardized use.
• Prepare progress reports, technical presentations, and documentation summaries for executive review.
• Ensure traceability, version control, and structured documentation throughout the manual development process.

Qualifications and experience

• Minimum of fifteen (15) years of professional experience in architecture and design-focused environments.
• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in architecture from a recognized university.
• Proven expertise in building codes, technical standards, and design compliance (local and international).

What we offer

• A chance to work on landmark projects in Saudi Arabia.
• Collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• An engaged and supportive team that is passionate about encouraging each other to succeed.
• Work for a company that values its employees and recognizes their contribution.
• We understand that to accomplish our goals, we must work as a team and rely on the efforts of every team member. We want team members to start their day with a sense of purpose and end it with a sense of accomplishment.

Preferred skills and competencies

• Deep understanding of architecture, urban design, and engineering integration.
• Excellent knowledge of international standards (IBC, NFPA, ASHRAE, ISO, LEED, etc.).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to interpret and harmonize complex technical requirements.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, BIM standards, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Fluent in English (Arabic proficiency is an advantage).

To apply

If you believe you have the skills, knowledge, and experience to fulfil this role, please submit your application online by clicking ‘Apply’.

DAR Engineering is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, age, marital status, gender identity, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.

What’s next?

Once your application has been submitted and reviewed, our talent acquisition team will contact shortlisted candidates.

Our selection process typically comprises two interview stages per vacancy, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation while providing candidates with the opportunity to engage with two members of the hiring team at each stage. The initial interview is generally conducted virtually, while the final stage often takes place in person at the office, aligning with the role’s location.

That said, we prioritize flexibility, tailoring our approach to accommodate the specific needs of both the position and the candidate.

Thank you for considering a career with us. We encourage you to regularly check for updates and explore future opportunities with DAR Engineering. Best of luck!

Company description

DAR Engineering is a leading multidisciplinary consultancy firm providing design, architecture, engineering, project management, construction management, and planning services across a broad range of sectors. We assist national governments, international organizations, and private sector companies by delivering comprehensive solutions with global expertise.

About the Company

alfanar builds efficient energy systems & solutions of the present and sets up infrastructures for a brighter future.

We assist utility sector partners & customers in transforming cities into sustainable, habitable, and inclusive Smart Cities by harnessing renewable energy resources from wind, solar, and waste heat energy. Promoting the transition to a sustainable eco-conscious future.

Using world-class technologies, we develop unrivaled quality electrical solutions & products from our manufacturing facilities, to solve the world’s major energy challenges and make the world a better viable place.

Diligence, Efficiency, and Innovation are the key criteria our teams adopt in order to continuously provide effective solutions. We’re constantly equipping our teams with the tools they need to expand their horizons and reach higher grounds.

Being in an ever-changing environment with a crucial impact on their surroundings, our employees are nurtured to become keen thinkers with highly refined skills and a consistent outlook on the future, working together on finding the next big innovation.