Project Manager– Research & Development (R&D)- UAE National

Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE Nationality: UAE National OnlyJob PurposeSupport the development and implementation of research, innovation, and technology initiatives within the construction and infrastructure sector.

The role will focus on analysing industry data, identifying emerging trends and technologies, assessing opportunities for innovation, and supporting initiatives that improve the efficiency, sustainability, and delivery of construction and infrastructure projects.The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of the construction/infrastructure industry, combined with experience in industry data, technology, innovation, or R&D-related initiatives. This is a technical individual-contributor role and is not intended for candidates currently operating in managerial positions.Key ResponsibilitiesConduct research and analysis on trends, developments, technologies, and emerging practices within the construction and infrastructure sectors.Analyse construction and infrastructure industry data to identify trends, challenges, opportunities, and areas for improvement.Support the development and implementation of R&D and innovation initiatives related to construction and infrastructure.Evaluate emerging technologies, tools, methodologies, and solutions relevant to the built environment.Translate industry research and data into actionable insights and recommendations.Support pilot projects, proof-of-concept initiatives, technology assessments, and innovation programmes.Collaborate with internal stakeholders, technical teams, project teams, and external industry partners to support R&D initiatives.Benchmark local and international construction and infrastructure practices, technologies, and innovation models.Prepare technical reports, research papers, presentations, business cases, and recommendations for relevant stakeholders.Monitor developments in areas such as construction technology, digitalisation, smart infrastructure, sustainable construction, and project delivery.Contribute to the identification and assessment of opportunities to enhance construction productivity, efficiency, quality, cost, and sustainability.Support the development of frameworks, methodologies, and knowledge resources related to R&D and innovation.Maintain awareness of relevant industry standards, technologies, regulations, and market developments.Perform other related duties and assignments as required.Minimum QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, Infrastructure, Engineering, Technology, or a related field.A Master’s degree in a relevant discipline is an advantage.Experience6–7+ years of relevant professional experience in the construction, infrastructure, engineering, or built-environment sector.Strong practical understanding of the construction/infrastructure industry and its data, processes, and challenges.Experience supporting or delivering technology, innovation, digital transformation, R&D, or industry improvement initiatives within construction or infrastructure is highly preferred.Experience in construction industry analysis, benchmarking, market intelligence, technical research, or data-driven decision-making is desirable.Candidates with purely academic/research backgrounds without relevant construction or infrastructure industry experience should not be considered.This position is a technical individual-contributor role; candidates currently holding managerial or people-management positions are not preferred.Technical CompetenciesConstruction and infrastructure industry knowledgeConstruction/project data analysisResearch and market intelligenceTechnology and innovation assessmentR&D methodologiesIndustry benchmarkingData interpretation and analytical thinkingTechnical report and presentation developmentEmerging construction technologiesDigital transformation within the built environmentProject and stakeholder managementCore CompetenciesAnalytical and critical thinkingProblem solvingTechnical curiosityInnovation mindsetResearch and information synthesisAttention to detailCommunication and presentation skillsStakeholder collaborationAbility to translate technical information into practical recommendationsAbility to work independently in a technical environment