Job Description

Location: Dubai
We are seeking a highly experienced and motivated New Schools Site Architect to lead architectural oversight for the design and construction of new school developments and refurbishment projects across the UAE. This is a key role within our NAE Regional Projects Team, responsible for managing the full architectural design lifecycle and ensuring high-quality execution onsite in alignment with regulatory, technical, and safety standards.
Key Responsibilities

• Serve as NAE's primary on-site architectural representative for new build and refurbishment projects.

• Oversee all stages of design, from concept through to shop drawings and as-builts.

• Monitor contractor performance on-site, ensuring compliance with architectural specifications, project timelines, quality standards, and ES&H (Environment, Safety & Health) plans.

• Liaise with internal teams, consultants, contractors, and stakeholders to manage dependencies and resolve architectural issues effectively.

• Lead site inspections, ensuring installation aligns with drawings and technical documents.

• Review contractor submittals, including technical queries, prequalification packages, material submittals, and as-built documentation.

• Track and verify documentation workflows and maintain key project trackers (e.g. design registers, drawing logs, submittal status).

• Support permitting and regulatory compliance, ensuring works align with Dubai and/or Abu Dhabi authority requirements.

• Contribute to project close-out processes, including final inspections, snagging, and T&C (Testing & Commissioning) oversight.

Skills & Experience
Essential:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture; professional certification preferred.

• 8-10 years of site-based architectural experience on medium to large-scale projects in the UAE.

• Minimum 3 years of experience in an architectural design office (UAE-based).

• Strong background in turnkey building projects, especially in social infrastructure (schools, healthcare, hospitality, etc.).

• Proven track record in managing contractors, interface coordination, and compliance with QA/QC protocols.

• Hands-on experience with ID and fit-out works in both new builds and refurbishments.

• Proficient in AutoCAD, Revit, Rhino, Adobe Suite, and other design and planning tools.

Desirable:

• Experience with K-12 school design and delivery.

• Familiarity with UAE building codes and authority approval processes.

• Knowledge of T&C, handover, and project close-out procedures.

• Valid UAE driving license.

About Us
Nord Anglia Education is the world's leading premium schools organisation. Our 80+ international schools educate more than 90,000 students worldwide. We are united by our purpose and ambition: to be the most forward-thinking and impactful global family of schools.
Our exclusive collaborations with prestigious institutions such as UNICEF, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), IMG Academy, and Juilliard place us at the forefront of educational innovation.
Joining Nord Anglia means becoming part of a global community, with opportunities to collaborate, develop and make an impact. We value creative thinkers who bring fresh ideas and are ready to help shape the future of learning.
To Apply
Applications should be submitted online via the Nord Anglia Education Careers Page and include a CV.
Nord Anglia Education is an equal opportunities employer and committed to diversity and inclusion across our schools and offices. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and celebrate different perspectives.
We are also committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All employees are expected to share this commitment and undertake appropriate checks as part of our recruitment process.

Skills Required