Rail Design Director - Architecture

About the role

Jacobs is seeking an experienced Rail Design Director – Architecture to join its Buildings & Logistics team in Abu Dhabi. You will lead the architectural vision and delivery of large‑scale rail and transit infrastructure projects, ensuring design excellence and strategic alignment across all phases.

Key responsibilities

• Define and drive the architectural design strategy for high‑speed rail, metro, light rail, commuter rail and transit‑oriented developments.
• Direct multidisciplinary teams through concept, schematic, detailed design, procurement and construction support.
• Establish and enforce design quality standards, governance processes and technical excellence.
• Mentor and develop high‑performing architects, urban designers and technical specialists.
• Lead the design and delivery of stations, interchanges, depots and maintenance facilities.
• Ensure station designs deliver optimal passenger experience, safety, accessibility and sustainability.
• Integrate rail infrastructure with surrounding urban environments and multimodal transport hubs.
• Engage with clients and stakeholders to align project objectives and performance.

Required profile

• Minimum 15 years (180 months) of experience in rail or transportation infrastructure design.
• Proven leadership of large, multidisciplinary design teams on complex rail programs.
• Strong track record of delivering high‑quality architectural solutions for high‑speed rail, metro, light rail and commuter rail projects.
• Ability to mentor staff, foster collaboration and drive innovation.
• Excellent stakeholder and client engagement skills.

Required skills

• Architectural Design
• Multidisciplinary Design
• Technical Delivery
• Design Quality Standards
• Station Infrastructure
• Transit‑Oriented Developments
• Transportation Infrastructure Design
• Urban Design
• High‑Speed Rail
• Metro
• Light Rail
• Commuter Rail