Tunnels Lead - Middle East Transport & Infrastructure

About the role

WSP is looking for an experienced Tunnels Lead to join its Middle East Transport & Infrastructure team, based in the UAE and supporting projects across the GCC and wider Middle East. This is a strategic leadership role combining deep technical expertise in tunnel and underground structures design with strong project delivery and people leadership, helping win and deliver major transportation, rail, metro, highway, utility and underground infrastructure projects.

Key responsibilities

• Act as the regional technical authority for tunnelling and underground infrastructure, leading the design and review of TBM tunnels, IMT tunnels, shafts, underground stations, cut-and-cover structures and retaining systems, and giving expert guidance from feasibility through detailed design and construction support.
• Lead the delivery of complex tunnel projects across the Middle East, managing technical scope, programme, quality, resources and commercial performance, and coordinating multidisciplinary teams.
• Develop and grow WSP's tunnels discipline in the region, manage and mentor tunnel engineers and technical specialists, and build technical excellence frameworks.
• Support regional business growth, engage with clients, contractors and government bodies, and lead technical inputs for bids and proposals.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Civil, Structural or Geotechnical Engineering, or a related discipline; a Master's in Tunnel or Geotechnical Engineering is advantageous.
• Minimum 15+ years of professional experience in tunnel and underground infrastructure engineering.
• Proven experience leading major tunnelling projects and managing multidisciplinary teams; international project experience is highly desirable.

Required skills

• TBM tunnels, NATM/SEM methods, cut-and-cover design, underground station and shaft design, geotechnical and structural analysis, ground-structure interaction, temporary works and tunnel safety and risk management.
• Tunnel design software and analytical tools.
• Strong project management, commercial awareness, client management and communication skills.