Engineering Director

Job description / Role

Client

A prominent regional entity delivering end-to-end EPC solutions across marine infrastructure, offshore energy, and dredging operations.

Location

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Assignment type

Permanent hire staff role/full residential role in UAE

Work schedule

9 hours (including lunch break) - from 8am to 5pm - Monday to Friday (Saturday and Sunday are week off)

Start date

Late 2025/early 2026 - depending on successful candidate's circumstances

Kintec has been exclusively selected to support a prominent regional organization in Abu Dhabi, known for delivering full-spectrum EPC solutions across marine infrastructure, offshore energy, and dredging. This is an exciting, tax-free opportunity for permanent residential staff roles in the UAE, offering a stable Monday-to-Friday schedule from 8am to 5pm. With a start date expected in late 2025 or early 2026, depending on candidate availability, this assignment presents not only professional growth but also the chance to live in one of the safest, most cosmopolitan cities in the Middle East.

Job purpose

Responsible for managing, planning, and coordinating procurement and engineering activities for offshore structures, naval architecture, and civil engineering projects (major and minor), as well as non-project materials (capital and others). Leads and monitors subordinates to ensure timely and effective execution of project schedules. Provides guidance across engineering disciplines to ensure compliance, quality, and accuracy of technical deliverables.

Principal accountabilities

• Lead the engineering section, ensuring strong commercial and technical performance.
• Develop and manage annual manpower and resource budgets.
• Coordinate tender inputs and approve manpower estimates from engineering managers and technical authorities.
• Deliver client presentations, addressing project-specific concerns and queries.
• Provide technical expertise to resolve complex engineering issues during project execution.
• Identify and implement process improvements, including automation opportunities, compatible with existing systems.
• Recruit, develop, and motivate staff to maintain a high-performing team; implement succession planning.
• Develop procurement strategies aligned with project and tender requirements.
• Evaluate vendors, negotiate contracts, and oversee vendor performance.
• Prepare accurate material estimates for project bids.
• Conduct staff training programs to enhance skills and knowledge.
• Resolve operational problems and coordinate resource requirements efficiently.
• Establish service standards and maintain quality assurance throughout engineering activities.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards.
• Manage budgetary controls, approve payments, and exercise delegated authority responsibly.

Education & experience

• Bachelor's degree in engineering (related discipline) or equivalent.
• Minimum 15 years' experience in the oil and gas industry, including at least 9 years in managerial roles.

Competencies

Behavioral

• Resilience: Maintain composure under stress; support team morale; turn setbacks into learning opportunities.
• Problem solving: Develop effective solutions under pressure; anticipate problems; plan contingencies.
• Planning & organizing: Generate accurate budgets; manage resources; respond efficiently to crises.
• Collaboration: Foster teamwork; value diverse contributions; resolve conflicts proactively.
• Communication: Anticipate stakeholder concerns; promote cross-cultural understanding; deliver clear guidance.
• Leadership & innovation: Drive creativity and experimentation; motivate team; implement cutting-edge solutions.
• Talent development: Identify high-potential employees; provide coaching and feedback; ensure staff growth.
• Business & industry insights: Analyze market trends; make forward-looking decisions.
• Commitment: Develop strategic goals; challenge conventional thinking; present strong business cases.

Technical

• Detailed understanding of engineering competence across complex tasks/projects.
• Evaluate advanced conceptual knowledge and apply innovative technical solutions.
• In-depth knowledge of oil and gas engineering disciplines, software, and systems.
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills in complex and unpredictable situations.

Other requirements

• Excellent planning, organizational, communication, and presentation skills.
• Highly motivated, with leadership and influencing abilities.
• Fluent in written and spoken English.