Principal Engineer - Bridges & Tunnels

Job Description

WSP is seeking an accomplished Principal Engineer – Bridges & Tunnels to lead and deliver complex structural design projects as part of our growing Transport & Infrastructure team in Jeddah or Riyadh. The role focuses on providing technical leadership for major bridge, tunnel, and civil structure design packages, supporting strategic infrastructure programmes across the Kingdom.

The ideal candidate will have deep technical design experience, proven leadership in delivering major bridge design projects, and strong regional (preferably KSA) exposure with an excellent understanding of authority processes, standards, and client expectations.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership and oversight for the delivery of bridge and tunnel design projects in Saudi Arabia
• Lead the development of concept, preliminary, and detailed designs, ensuring compliance with KSA standards
• Act as Engineer of Record or Design Lead on selected projects, accountable for technical quality and integrity
• Review and approve design calculations, drawings, reports, and specifications
• Interface directly with KSA authorities and key clients, representing WSP at senior technical and commercial meetings
• Lead authority submissions, technical negotiations, and response to review comments
• Drive innovation, value engineering, and design optimisation while maintaining safety and constructability
• Mentor and develop senior, intermediate, and junior engineers within the bridges and structures team
• Support project managers with technical resourcing, programme planning, risk management, and delivery strategies
• Contribute to business development activities, including bids, proposals, and client engagement
• Support the growth of WSP’s bridges and tunnels capability and reputation in Saudi Arabia
• Ensure all work aligns with WSP’s quality management systems, health and safety standards, and sustainability objectives

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering (Master’s degree preferred)
• 13+ years of relevant experience in bridges and tunnels design, preferably within a leading consultancy

Strong regional experience is essential; KSA project experience is highly preferred.

• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary design teams on large and complex projects
• Experience acting as Design Manager, Design Lead, or Engineer of Record

Extensive experience working with international engineering consultancies delivering large transport infrastructure.

• Proficiency with industry‑standard bridge analysis and design software (e.g. MIDAS, LUSAS, RM Bridge, CSI Bridge, or equivalent)
• Chartered Engineer status (ICE, IStructE, or equivalent) is highly desirable
• Excellent communication, leadership, and client‑facing skills
• Fluent in English; Arabic language skills are an advantage