Principal Consultant – Commercial – Construction & Logistics

About the role

Jacobs is seeking a senior professional to own cost planning and commercial management for construction and logistics projects across the United Arab Emirates. The Principal Consultant will lead CapEx, OpEx and whole‑life cost estimates, manage contracts and serve as the day‑to‑day commercial liaison for the service line.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare and review detailed CapEx, OpEx and LCC estimates, benchmarked against regional cost data.
• Lead contract negotiation, drafting, administration and change‑order management.
• Maintain cost databases, conduct comprehensive cost analyses and optimise project value.
• Oversee payment processes, invoicing, valuations and ensure financial accuracy.
• Represent Jacobs in client meetings, technical and commercial discussions, and present cost insights.

Required profile

• 10+ years of hands‑on experience in quantity surveying or cost estimating within construction.
• Proven ability to lead cost planning for multi‑sector projects and maintain robust cost databases.
• Strong understanding of construction contracts, procurement processes and project management principles.
• Experience with Public‑Private Partnership (PPP) structures is an advantage.

Required skills

• Cost estimating and cost intelligence
• CapEx and OpEx budgeting
• Whole‑life costing (LCC) and life‑cycle cost analysis
• Regional cost benchmarks and cost databases
• Quantity surveying
• Construction contracts and procurement processes
• Industry‑specific cost software and tools