Principal Consultant - Fire & Life Safety

Job Description

Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Provide technical and managerial leadership for fire and life safety projects across the region.
• Design Oversight: Consult the selection of fire and life safety systems, fire detection and alarm systems, water-based suppression systems, clean agent extinguishing systems, smoke control systems, and passive fire protection systems for complex projects. Maintain and cultivate a high standard of quality deliverables and communications.
• Compliance & Inspection: Ensure designs and installations comply with Saudi and international codes. Conduct audits and inspections.
• Risk Management: Direct fire risk assessments and hazard analyses. Develop mitigation strategies for high-profile projects.
• Testing & Commissioning: Oversee integrated testing and commissioning of fire and life safety systems to meet regulatory and design requirements.
• Client Engagement: Function as the primary point of contact for clients. Provide expert advice and ensure client satisfaction.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Coordinate with architects, stakeholders, contractors, and government authorities to ensure smooth project delivery.
• Team Development: Mentor and guide senior and junior consultants. Foster knowledge sharing and innovation in fire safety practices.
• Business Development: Support growth initiatives by contributing to proposals, attending client meetings, and representing WSP at industry events.
• Thought Leadership: Raise the profile of WSP’s Fire & Life Safety team through participation in conferences, publications, and professional forums.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, or related technical field (Fire Protection, Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Architecture or related field).
• 12–15 years of experience in fire life safety/protection engineering consulting, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of Saudi Building Code (SBC 201 and SBC 801), international codes, and standards (UAE, IBC, NFPA, BS, and others).
• Proven expertise in fire protection design, fire detection and alarm systems, smoke control systems, risk assessments, and compliance audits.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and client management skills.
• Professional license and/or certifications in fire protection (PE, CEng, CFPS or equivalent) are highly desirable.