Aviation Lead Airfield Engineering

Job Description

""Think bigger scale. Think higher profile. Think ground-breaking. Join WSP, and you'll be at the heart of a team of international experts all dedicated to growing and sharing their expertise and working on projects that transform society for all of us. We are seeking a highly skilled Aviation Lead Airfield Engineering to drive the design and development of airfield infrastructure, ensuring technical excellence and compliance with international aviation standards. This role requires a seasoned professional with extensive experience in airfield engineering, capable of leading complex projects and multidisciplinary teams.""

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the planning, design, and development of airfield runways, taxiways, aprons, helipads and associated facilities, ensuring compliance with ICAO, FAA, EASA, GACA, and other regional aviation regulations.
• Conduct feasibility studies, site investigations, risk assessments, and technical evaluations to determine project viability and optimal design solutions.
• Develop detailed engineering designs, specifications, technical reports, and construction documentation, ensuring high-quality deliverables aligned with industry best practices.
• Oversee pavement design, grading, drainage, airfield lighting, and marking layouts, collaborating closely with geotechnical and electrical specialists.
• Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, including structural, electrical, geotechnical, and environmental engineers, to ensure seamless integration of airfield components.
• Engage with clients, airport operators, regulatory authorities, and other key stakeholders to ensure project alignment with operational and regulatory requirements.
• Provide technical leadership, guidance, and mentorship to junior engineers and design teams, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and professional development.
• Manage project budgets, schedules, and resources, ensuring timely delivery within cost constraints while maintaining the highest quality standards.
• Conduct value engineering reviews, risk assessments, and quality assurance processes to optimize design efficiency and constructability.
• Stay abreast of emerging aviation technologies, materials, and sustainability practices to drive innovation in airfield engineering.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related discipline.
• 10+ years of experience in civil engineering, with a focus on aviation infrastructure and airfield design.
• Proven track record of leading and managing complex airfield design projects, preferably in the Middle East or other high-growth aviation markets.
• Deep understanding of international aviation design standards, including ICAO Annex 14, FAA AC 150/5370, EASA, IATA, and regional regulations.
• Strong expertise in pavement design, grading, drainage, and airfield lighting layouts.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Civil 3D, MicroStation, GIS and relevant airfield simulation/design tools.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural and multidisciplinary environment, managing competing priorities and delivering results under pressure.
• Chartered Engineer (CEng), or equivalent certification is a plus.

Key Technical Skills

• Airfield Design: Runways, taxiways, aprons, aircraft parking layouts, and stand configurations.
• Pavement Design: Rigid and flexible pavement design using FAARFIELD, PCASE, COMFAA, aligned with Middle East climate conditions.
• Grading & Drainage: Design for extreme weather conditions, flash flood management, and dry climate considerations.
• Marking & Signage: ICAO/FAA-compliant airfield markings and signage, adapted for regional visibility and environmental conditions.
• Airfield Lighting & Navaids: AGL system layouts, ILS, PAPI, and approach lighting, integrated with ME regulatory requirements.
• Regulatory Compliance: ICAO Annex 14, FAA AC 150/5370, EASA, IATA, and regional authorities (GACA, GCAA, ACAA, DGCA).
• Geometric Design: Aircraft movement layouts, safety zones, clearances, and regulatory compliance for major Middle East airports.
• Site Investigations & Surveys: Topographic surveys, geotechnical analysis, and sand-resistant pavement considerations.
• Construction Documentation: Design reports, technical drawings, and specifications tailored to regional construction standards.
• Simulation & Modelling: Aircraft taxiing analysis, apron capacity assessments, and airside traffic simulations for hub airports.
• Material Selection & Sustainability: Heat-resistant pavement materials, sustainable drainage solutions, and carbon footprint reduction strategies.