HR Manager – Engineering Projects (Hard Commodity)

About the role

Our client, a well‑established engineering firm in the hard‑commodity sector, is looking for an experienced HR Manager to lead HR operations for large‑scale engineering projects in Abu Dhabi. The role combines day‑to‑day HR administration with strategic workforce planning and recruitment for technical and non‑technical positions.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee daily HR activities ensuring compliance with UAE labour law and internal policies.
• Manage the full recruitment cycle – manpower planning, sourcing, interviewing, and onboarding of engineering, EPC and project‑management talent.
• Support line managers and project directors on performance management, employee relations and workforce development.
• Maintain HR systems, personnel files and audit‑ready documentation.
• Coordinate visa processing, mobilization and contract administration with site and head‑office teams.
• Advise on compensation structures, benefits and retention strategies.
• Ensure HR practices align with HSE, ethical standards and corporate governance.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration or related field (Master’s preferred).
• 8‑10 years of HR experience, with at least 5 years in oil & gas or engineering projects within the UAE or GCC.
• Strong knowledge of UAE labour law, free‑zone regulations and project‑based HR frameworks.
• Fluent English and excellent communication skills for multicultural environments.

Required skills

• UAE labour law
• HR software
• Recruitment for engineering EPC and project‑management roles
• ERP HRIS systems
• MS Office