Principal SCADA Engineer

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Job Description

Principal SCADA Engineer

Abu Dhabi, UAE

Parsons Abu Dhabi is seeking a highly experienced and technically accomplished Principal SCADA Engineer with a strong background in design and implementation of SCADA systems for tunnel and transportation infrastructure projects. The successful candidate will lead SCADA system development across all project stages, from concept and design through commissioning and handover. This role requires deep technical knowledge of tunnel systems (e.g., ventilation, fire detection, CCTV, lighting, traffic control, power, emergency systems), strong leadership in multidisciplinary coordination, and proven international or Local project delivery experience.

What You'll Be Doing

• Lead the design and delivery of complex SCADA systems for tunnel infrastructure projects, ensuring full integration of all subsystems including:
• Ventilation control
• Fire detection and response
• Power monitoring and control
• ITS and lighting systems
• CCTV and communication systems
• Emergency response systems and plans
• Control and DATA Centers
• Develop and validate system architecture, control philosophies, communication networks, and redundancy strategies for high-availability operations.
• Prepare and review high-level and detailed design deliverables, including:
• Concept Of Operations (CONOPS)
• Functional Design Specifications (FDS)
• SCADA architecture diagrams and system topologies
• Control room interface requirements and graphical hierarchy
• Subsystem interface definitions and integration plans
• Supervise and mentor design engineers and integration teams during the project lifecycle.
• Manage technical coordination between SCADA, MEP, ITS, telecom, and civil design disciplines.
• Ensure compliance with international tunnel safety standards, SCADA security best practices (e.g., IEC 62443), and project-specific requirements.
• Oversee or guide implementation phases including factory acceptance testing (FAT), site installation supervision, commissioning, and final handover.
• Interface with client representatives, authorities, project consultants, and contractors to ensure alignment with operational goals.
• Support the development of SCADA tender specifications and evaluate vendor proposals.
  
  
  

What Required Skills You'll Bring

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer, Electronics, Electrical, or Control Engineering.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in SCADA system design and implementation, mainly in tunnel and transportation infrastructure
• Proven leadership in designing and delivering SCADA solutions for complex, multi-subsystem environments.
• Strong knowledge of tunnel operations and safety-critical system integration.
• Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary technical teams and manage project interfaces.
• Excellent command of system documentation, interface control documentation (ICD), and functional safety considerations.
  
  
  

Soft Skills

• Strong leadership, team coordination, and mentoring capabilities.
• Excellent English written and verbal communication, including report writing and technical presentation skills.
• Ability to manage pressure and prioritize competing demands on complex infrastructure programs.
• High degree of accountability and quality control over technical deliverables.
  
  
  

Working Conditions

• Mainly in Parsons Abu Dhabi EMEA HQ Office, however, travel may be required for project workshops, integration coordination, and site support.
• Combination of office-based work, remote design collaboration, and site interface where needed.
• Role will include Design activities and Construction support and direct coordination with Client and Authorities.
  
  
  

What Desired Skills You'll Bring

• Hands-on experience with major SCADA platforms (e.g., SCADA/HMI for tunnels, integrated control centers).
• Familiarity with SIL-rated systems and safety lifecycle in tunnel environments.
• Experience coordinating with authorities or clients on tunnel commissioning and operation protocols.
• Understanding of transport/ITS systems such as Variable Message Signs (VMS), Automatic Incident Detection (AID), and public address systems.
• Strong understanding of cybersecurity and network segmentation in SCADA Virtual servers' environments and related control centers.
  
  
  

Parsons equally employs representation at all job levels no matter the race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age, disability or genetic information.

We truly invest and care about our employee’s wellbeing and provide endless growth opportunities as the sky is the limit, so aim for the stars! Imagine next and join the Parsons quest—APPLY TODAY!

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