Senior Site Architect

The Role

My client a leading international Architectural practice is seeking an experienced Senior Site Architect to join our Construction Management Supervision team on a major development in Riyadh. The successful candidate will serve as the lead architectural representative on site, ensuring...

The Role
My client a leading international Architectural practice is seeking an experienced Senior Site Architect to join our Construction Management Supervision team on a major development in Riyadh. The successful candidate will serve as the lead architectural representative on site, ensuring that all architectural works are executed in full compliance with approved contract documents, specifications, authority requirements, and quality standards. This role requires a technically strong site professional with extensive experience in construction supervision, quality management, contractor coordination, and contract administration across large-scale projects. The position will play a critical role in safeguarding design intent, maintaining quality standards, managing technical queries, and overseeing the successful delivery of architectural works through to handover. Key Responsibilities Construction Supervision & Quality Assurance * Conduct regular inspections of architectural works to verify compliance with approved drawings, specifications, materials, and workmanship standards. * Monitor construction activities related to building envelopes, facades, finishes, fit-out works, joinery, waterproofing, and architectural detailing. * Ensure all architectural works are delivered in accordance with project quality requirements and approved construction methodologies. * Verify contractor compliance with approved materials, mock-ups, and benchmark installations. Technical Review & Contract Administration * Review and respond to contractor Requests for Information (RFIs), ensuring timely resolution of design and technical queries. * Coordinate with design teams and specialist consultants to clarify design intent and resolve technical issues. * Review contractor shop drawings, material submissions, technical data sheets, samples, and mock-ups for compliance with contract requirements. * Prepare technical comments and recommendations for approval or rejection of submissions. Non-Conformance & Quality Control * Identify and document non-conforming works and issue Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs) where required. * Monitor corrective actions and verify satisfactory closure of quality issues. * Ensure compliance with Inspection and Test Plans (ITPs), hold points, witness points, and quality control procedures. * Maintain detailed records of inspections, observations, and corrective actions. Site Coordination * Coordinate closely with structural, MEP, façade, and specialist supervision teams to resolve interface issues and ensure integrated project delivery. * Participate in coordination meetings with contractors, consultants, and stakeholders. * Review construction sequencing and provide recommendations to minimise quality and coordination risks. Reporting & Documentation * Prepare detailed site inspection reports, quality assessments, photographic records, and progress updates. * Maintain accurate documentation of RFIs, NCRs, site instructions, inspections, and approvals. * Provide regular updates to project leadership on quality performance, technical issues, and potential risks. Testing, Commissioning & Handover * Lead architectural snagging and quality inspections during testing, commissioning, and practical completion stages. * Prepare and manage punch lists and defect registers. * Verify closure of defects and confirm readiness for handover and final acceptance. * Ensure all architectural documentation is complete and aligned with project close-out requirements.

Requirements
Qualifications * Bachelors Degree in Architecture. * Professional registration with a recognised architectural body such as NCAAB (Saudi Arabia), ARB (UK), AIA, RIBA, or equivalent. * Transferable Iqama required. Experience * Minimum 10-15 years of professional experience in architecture, construction supervision, or contract administration. * Proven experience on large-scale mixed-use, residential, hospitality, commercial, or public-sector developments. * Strong background in site supervision and quality management within a consultancy or Construction Management Supervision environment. * Previous experience in Saudi Arabia is highly required. Skills & Competencies * Strong knowledge of construction detailing, architectural systems, façade construction, finishes, and fit-out works. * Extensive experience in RFI management, shop drawing reviews, technical submittals, and construction administration. * Thorough understanding of quality management systems, inspection procedures, NCR management, and testing protocols. * Ability to interpret contract documents, specifications, IFC drawings etc. * Good knowledge of the Saudi Building Code (SBC), Riyadh Municipality requirements, and local authority regulations.

About the company
Blake Anderson is a boutique consultancy based in the UK, with a satellite office in Dubai. Specialising in Technical and Construction Recruitment, Blake Anderson provides a superior service to clients and candidates within the construction and technical sectors. We concentrate on placing professionals throughout the world, focusing mainly on the Middle East and Asia, drawing on both the global and local markets for highly qualified professionals. In order to attract the best talent, we invest in various high-end advertising mediums. With a database of 1,000s of candidates, our experienced consultants have a wealth of recruitment knowledge and have a consultative approach at all times, ensuring a second to none service.