Principal - Landscape Architect

Role Overview

Principal Landscape Architect at WSP in the Middle East, based in Abu Dhabi. This is a senior technical and leadership role within the Transport & Infrastructure business unit, responsible for leading landscape design delivery on large-scale infrastructure and land development projects across the Emirate.

Role Purpose

Lead the landscape architecture design delivery of streetscape on large-scale infrastructure and land development projects. Provide design leadership, technical oversight, and multidisciplinary coordination to deliver fully integrated, high-quality landscape solutions aligned with authority requirements and project objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Design Leadership & Technical Oversight

• Lead the development of landscape architecture design packages from concept through detailed design and construction support stages.
• Provide design direction and technical oversight for landscape works associated with roads, highways, public realm, utilities corridors, and land development projects.
• Ensure landscape designs are functional, sustainable, contextually appropriate, and aligned with project vision and client objectives.

Project Delivery & Multidisciplinary Coordination

• Coordinate closely with roads, utilities, drainage, structures, lighting, urban design, and environmental teams to ensure fully integrated design solutions.
• Manage interfaces between landscape design and other infrastructure disciplines to resolve conflicts and optimize design outcomes.
• Review and approve technical drawings, specifications, schedules, and reports to ensure quality and compliance.

Client & Authority Engagement

• Act as a key point of contact for clients and Abu Dhabi authorities on landscape-related matters.
• Lead design reviews, technical workshops, and authority meetings to support approvals and stakeholder alignment.
• Ensure compliance with relevant Abu Dhabi standards, guidelines, and approval processes.

Construction Support & Quality Assurance

• Provide technical support during tendering and construction stages, including review of contractor submittals, shop drawings, and material samples.
• Conduct design reviews and site visits as required to ensure compliance with design intent.
• Ensure landscape works meet quality, safety, and sustainability standards.

Leadership & Mentoring

• Lead, mentor, and develop landscape architects and support staff within the team.
• Promote best practice, innovation, and continuous improvement within the landscape discipline.
• Support resource planning, workload management, and technical capability development.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Landscape Architecture (Master's degree preferred).
• 10–12 years of professional experience in landscape architecture, with strong focus on streetscape, public realm, infrastructure, and land development projects.
• Extensive experience delivering Abu Dhabi-based projects, including authority coordination and approvals.
• Proven ability to lead and coordinate multi-disciplinary teams in a consultancy environment.
• Strong understanding of Abu Dhabi standards, public realm requirements, and infrastructure-related landscape design.

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.

Additional Information

WSP offers flexible working arrangements including the option to work from home, work part-time, or have flexible start and finish times. Competitive pay and standard benefits include first-class medical cover, generous annual leave, and paid professional subscriptions.