Technical Expert/Client Liaison Engineer – Structural Engineering (Airport Projects)

At Jacobs, we’re challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world’s most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery, and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.

Your impact

The vision for the King Salman International Airport (KSIA) in Riyadh is truly a first of a kind sustainable airport and airport city development. The expansion anticipates accommodating up to 120 million passengers annually through 2030, quadrupling the current capacity of 30 million. The airport is expected to become one of the world's busiest international hubs, accommodating 185 million passengers and up to 3.5 million tons of cargo annually by 2050. The airport and airport city development are looking to set a global benchmark for aviation experience.

With sustainability at its core, the new airport will achieve LEED Platinum certification by incorporating cutting-edge green initiatives into its design and will be powered by renewable energy.

We are seeking an experienced Technical Expert/Client Liaison Engineer specializing in structural engineering for airport projects. The role involves being a critical part of a site-based team led by the Engineering Director, coordinating structural design and construction oversight (if required) while serving as a key liaison with clients and stakeholders.

In this role you will report into the Building Assets Director.

Responsibilities

The successful candidate will have a strong technical background, proven experience in airport infrastructure projects, and excellent client management skills. This position requires collaboration with multi-disciplinary teams to ensure the delivery of high-quality, innovative, and compliant structural solutions in a fast-paced, aviation-focused environment.

• Act as the primary contact for clients, addressing inquiries, concerns, and feedback related to structural designs and construction.
• Prevent the emergence of questions before, during, or after the design period stages.
• Organize and participate in regular meetings with stakeholders to discuss project progress, technical challenges, and potential solutions, adding value to our services.
• Translate technical details into clear and concise information for non-technical stakeholders.
• Facilitate data collection and interfaces with airport and other designers.

Here’s what you’ll need

• Minimum 15 years of experience in structural engineering, with at least 5 years in airport projects, terminal buildings, or aviation-related infrastructure.
• Demonstrated experience in client liaison roles, managing stakeholder communications and relationships.
• Proven track record in delivering large-scale structural engineering projects in compliance with international aviation standards (e.g., ICAO, IATA).

Technical Expertise

• Strong knowledge of structural analysis, design, and construction of airport-related structures (e.g., terminals, control towers, hangars, ancillary and support facilities).
• Proficiency in structural engineering software such as SAP2000, ETABS, STAAD Pro, or similar.
• Familiarity with materials commonly used in airport structures, including steel, concrete, and composite systems.
• Understanding of airport operational requirements and the ability to integrate these into structural designs.

Client Liaison Skills

• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills to manage relationships with airport authorities, contractors, and other stakeholders.
• Ability to articulate complex technical concepts in layman’s terms for non-technical stakeholders.
• Experience in conducting client meetings, presentations, and status updates.

Regulatory and Industry Standards

• In-depth knowledge of international and local structural codes and standards (e.g., ACI, Eurocode, BS, ASTM).
• Familiarity with aviation industry-specific guidelines and best practices (ICAO Annexes, IATA standards).
• Understanding of sustainability principles (e.g., LEED, BREEAM) and their application to structural designs.

Project Management Skills

• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills to manage relationships with airport authorities, contractors, and other stakeholders.
• Ability to articulate complex technical concepts in layman’s terms for non-technical stakeholders.
• Experience in conducting client meetings, presentations, and status updates.

Problem-Solving and Innovation

• Ability to troubleshoot complex structural challenges and provide innovative solutions tailored to the airport environment.
• Familiarity with emerging technologies in structural engineering, such as BIM (Building Information Modeling).

Leadership and Team Collaboration

• Strong leadership qualities to guide electrical engineering teams and foster collaboration with cross-disciplinary groups.
• Experience mentoring junior engineers and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.

Language and Cultural Adaptability

• Fluency in English is required; knowledge of Arabic is a plus.
• Ability to work effectively in a multi-cultural and international environment.

Availability and Flexibility

• Willingness to be based on-site in Riyadh and travel as required.
• Flexibility to adapt to dynamic schedules and project priorities.

Desirable Skills

• Experience with seismic analysis and designs for airport structures.
• Familiarity with airport-specific systems (e.g., baggage handling, passenger boarding bridges, rotunda, jetways, etc.) and their structural integration.

Jacobs. A world where you can.

From our inclusive employee networks to our positive mental health champions - we are committed to driving a culture of caring where you can be you. Joining Jacobs not only connects you locally but globally - and together, our diverse perspectives and unique backgrounds power our collective strength. We collaborate and share! By supporting one another, we all succeed. With safety and flexibility always top of mind, we have gone beyond traditional ways of working so you have the support, means, and space to maximize your potential. You will uncover flexible working arrangements, benefits, and opportunities to do good too - from participating in our global giving and volunteering program, to exploring new and inventive ways to help our clients make the world a better place. No matter what drives you, you will discover how you can cultivate, nurture, and achieve your goals - all at a single global company. Start your Jacobs career with a company that inspires and empowers you to deliver your best work so you can evolve, grow, and succeed - today and into tomorrow.

Locations

CityStateCountryRiyadhAll SA RegionsSaudi Arabia