Materials Subject Matter Expert - Roads & Bridges

Overview

The Materials Subject Matter Expert (SME) will act as the key technical authority concerning all aspects of construction materials, quality compliance, testing, and material engineering for the client. The role ensures all materials used throughout the project satisfy contract specifications, client requirements, international standards, and durability standards essential for bridge and transportation infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the lead technical expert for materials engineering across the project.
• Provide specialist counsel to project management, engineering, construction, quality assurance, and commercial teams.
• Develop and implement material compliance strategies and quality management protocols.
• Review and authorize material specifications, submittals, testing requirements, and quality procedures.
• Resolve complex technical challenges related to materials during project execution.
• Ensure compliance with clients’ specifications, Ministry of Transport and Logistic Services (MOTLS), Saudi standards, and international best practices.
• Oversee materials related to bridge structures including high-performance concrete, reinforced concrete elements, post-tensioning and grouting materials, structural steel and fabricated components, bearings, expansion joint systems, protective coatings, precast components, and waterproofing systems.
• Manage transportation infrastructure materials such as asphalt pavements, aggregate bases and subbases, roadway concrete pavements, retaining wall materials, drainage and utility infrastructure components, geosynthetics, highway safety barriers, and specialty bridge construction materials.
• Review contractor material submittals and ensure technical compliance with durability and performance criteria.
• Establish material approval workflows and monitor compliance tracking.
• Assist procurement teams with technical evaluation of material suppliers.
• Set material testing requirements and quality assurance standards; approve testing plans and assess laboratory performance.
• Validate laboratory test results and compliance documentation.
• Promote durability in material selection for long-term asset performance and optimize lifecycle costs.
• Advise on material installation quality assurance during construction; review inspection and quality records and support technical compliance for Resident Engineers and QA/QC teams.
• Oversee structural concrete and steel engineering aspects including mix designs, production methods, curing, testing, fabrication procedures, steel certifications, welding, coatings, corrosion protection, and factory acceptance testing.
• Evaluate and qualify suppliers and manufacturers, conduct audits and inspections, assess alternative materials and value engineering options, ensuring supply chain quality adherence.
• Identify material-related risks, develop mitigation and contingency plans, and participate in project risk workshops.
• Ensure materials conform to health, safety, and environmental requirements; promote sustainable construction practices and compliance with environmental regulations.

Candidate Profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Materials Engineering, Construction Materials, or related field.
• Master’s degree in Materials Engineering, Structural Engineering, or Construction Technology is highly preferred.
• Professional Engineer (PE), Chartered Engineer (CEng), or equivalent certification is favored.
• Membership in recognized professional bodies such as ICE, ASCE, CIHT, ACI, or IStructE is an advantage.
• At least 15 years of professional experience in materials engineering and quality management.
• Minimum of 10 years experience on major bridge and transportation infrastructure projects.
• Experience managing material compliance for projects valued over USD 250 million.
• Prior experience in GCC and Saudi Arabia projects is highly desirable.
• Experience working within PMC, consultancy, client, or large contractor environments preferred.

Essential Skills

• Deep expertise in bridge and infrastructure materials engineering.
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Expertise in material specification development and approval processes.
• Durability assessment and lifecycle performance analysis.
• Quality assurance and compliance oversight.
• Technical auditing and supplier evaluation capabilities.
• Strong technical report writing and presentation skills.
• Excellent stakeholder management and leadership skills.

Behavioral Traits

• Demonstrates authoritative technical leadership.
• Highly detail-oriented with a strong focus on quality.
• Strategically minded with solution-focused approach.
• Exhibits professionalism, integrity, and accountability.
• Ability to influence and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.
• Effective communicator and mentor.
• Committed to innovation, safety, and continuous improvement.

Compensation and Benefits

• Tax-free salary.
• Life insurance coverage.
• Medical insurance.
• Annual leave entitlement.
• Company gratuity program.
• Discretionary bonus scheme.
• Annual flight allowance.
• Transportation and housing allowances.
• Access to a comprehensive Employee Wellbeing Program providing 24/7 support across finance, legal, family care, health, fitness, and nutrition.

About the Employer

AtkinsRéalis is a global leader in engineering services and nuclear sectors, integrating people, data, and technology to innovate and transform infrastructure and energy systems worldwide. Partnering with clients and industry experts, our teams deliver cutting-edge consultancy, design, engineering, and project management to advance sustainable futures.