Why Global Companies Hire Structural Design Engineers from Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s massive infrastructure projects and Vision 2030 initiatives have fostered a generation of highly skilled structural design engineers. Companies worldwide are turning to Saudi talent for several compelling reasons:
- Experience with mega-projects: Saudi engineers regularly work on complex, large-scale infrastructure and construction projects that are uncommon elsewhere.
- Modern technical training: Saudi universities and professional development programs have invested heavily in engineering education, producing graduates familiar with cutting-edge design software and methodologies.
- Bilingual capabilities: Most Saudi structural engineers are proficient in both Arabic and English, facilitating smoother communication with international stakeholders.
- Understanding of extreme environmental conditions: Saudi engineers excel in designing structures that withstand harsh desert environments, extreme temperatures, and unique geological challenges.
Who Should Consider Hiring Saudi Arabian Structural Design Engineers
The specialized expertise of Saudi structural engineers makes them particularly valuable for specific types of companies:
- International construction firms managing projects in the Middle East or other regions with similar environmental challenges.
- Infrastructure development companies working on large-scale transportation, utilities, or public works projects that require experience with complex structural challenges.
- Architectural firms specializing in commercial or institutional buildings seeking engineers who understand both traditional and modern design approaches.
- Engineering consultancies looking to expand their expertise in energy-efficient structures or designs for extreme weather conditions.
- Oil and gas companies requiring specialized knowledge for industrial facilities designed to withstand specific environmental and operational stresses.
Key Skills and Specializations for Structural Design Engineers
Saudi Arabian structural design engineers bring diverse technical capabilities essential for successful projects:
Technical Skills
- Structural analysis software: Proficiency with ETABS, SAP2000, STAAD.Pro, ROBOT, and other industry-standard tools
- CAD/BIM expertise: Advanced skills in AutoCAD, Revit Structure, and Tekla Structures
- Specialized design knowledge: Expertise in concrete, steel, timber, and composite structural systems
- Code compliance: Familiarity with Saudi Building Code (SBC), International Building Code (IBC), and other relevant standards
- Seismic design: Experience with seismic analysis and designing earthquake-resistant structures
Specialization Areas
| Specialization | Applications | Relevant Skills |
|---|---|---|
| High-rise Buildings | Skyscrapers, commercial towers | Wind load analysis, advanced vertical transportation integration |
| Industrial Structures | Factories, warehouses, process facilities | Heavy machinery support, vibration control, specialized foundation design |
| Infrastructure Engineering | Bridges, tunnels, transportation facilities | Dynamic load analysis, large-span structures, post-tensioning |
| Energy Facilities | Power plants, oil refineries, renewable energy structures | Thermal stress management, blast-resistant design |
| Sustainable Design | Green buildings, energy-efficient structures | Passive cooling systems, adaptive reuse strategies |
Experience Levels of Saudi Arabian Structural Design Engineers
Understanding the career progression of structural engineers in Saudi Arabia helps employers match candidates to their specific project needs:
Entry-Level (0-3 years)
Recent graduates typically hold a bachelor’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering from Saudi universities like King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) or King Saud University. They’re skilled in fundamental analysis and familiar with design software but require supervision on complex projects. Entry-level engineers often assist with calculations, drafting, and basic design tasks.
Mid-Level (4-8 years)
These engineers have gained substantial practical experience, often working on significant regional projects. They typically manage specific aspects of structural design independently, supervise junior staff, and coordinate with other disciplines. Many hold professional certifications and are pursuing or have completed master’s degrees. Their expertise in Saudi building codes and local construction practices is well-developed.
Senior Level (9+ years)
Senior structural engineers in Saudi Arabia bring comprehensive expertise in managing complex projects from conception through completion. They often have experience with iconic Saudi developments and possess deep knowledge of specialized structural systems. Most hold advanced degrees and professional licenses, with many having international experience. They excel at client relations, team leadership, and innovative structural solutions for challenging environments.
Hiring Models to Choose From
When hiring structural design engineers in Saudi Arabia, companies can choose from several employment models, each with distinct advantages:
| Hiring Model | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-time Direct Employment | Long-term projects requiring dedicated staff | Full control over work, team integration, knowledge retention | Requires legal entity, higher fixed costs, longer commitment |
| Contractor/Freelancer | Short-term specialized needs | Flexibility, specialized expertise, lower commitment | Less loyalty, potential availability issues, intellectual property concerns |
| Staff Augmentation | Scaling teams quickly for specific projects | Quick onboarding, reduced hiring burden, scalability | Higher hourly rates, potential integration challenges |
| Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) | Companies wanting to establish Saudi operations gradually | Reduced initial investment, local expertise leverage, phased approach | Complex agreements, dependency on partner, longer setup timeframe |
| Employer of Record (EOR) | Companies without Saudi entity seeking compliant employment | Quick market entry, full compliance, no entity needed | Service fees, indirect employment relationship |
How to Legally Hire Structural Design Engineers in Saudi Arabia
Employers have two primary paths for legally hiring structural engineers in Saudi Arabia: establishing a local entity or partnering with an Employer of Record (EOR).
Entity Setup vs. EOR Comparison
| Aspect | Entity Setup | Employer of Record (EOR) |
|---|---|---|
| Time to hire | 3-6 months (entity formation + hiring process) | 2-4 weeks |
| Initial investment | $15,000-$50,000+ (varies by entity type) | Monthly service fee per employee |
| Legal requirements | Local director, office space, minimum capital, multiple permits | None for the hiring company |
| Compliance responsibility | Full responsibility falls on the company | Managed by the EOR provider |
| Saudization requirements | Must meet industry-specific quota directly | Handled by EOR provider |
| Best for | Long-term operations with multiple employees | Testing the market, hiring quickly, small teams |
For companies seeking a faster, more flexible approach to hiring structural engineers in Saudi Arabia, an Employer of Record in Saudi Arabia provides a compliant solution without the complexities of entity establishment. This approach eliminates the need to navigate Saudi Arabia’s complex regulatory environment while ensuring full compliance with local employment laws.
Step-by-Step Guide to Hiring Structural Design Engineers in Saudi Arabia
Follow this structured approach to successfully recruit and onboard structural engineers in Saudi Arabia:
Step 1: Define Your Requirements
Begin by clarifying the specific expertise, experience level, and specialized knowledge needed for your structural engineering projects. Consider factors like:
- Required software proficiency (ETABS, SAP2000, Revit, etc.)
- Familiarity with specific building codes and standards
- Experience with particular structure types (high-rise, industrial, etc.)
- Language requirements (Arabic, English proficiency levels)
- Necessary certifications or educational qualifications
Step 2: Select Your Hiring Model
Determine the most appropriate employment model based on your project timeline, budget, and long-term objectives in Saudi Arabia:
- Direct employment (requires entity)
- Contract-based engagement
- EOR solution for entity-free hiring
Step 3: Source Qualified Candidates
Leverage multiple channels to build a strong candidate pool:
- Partner with specialized engineering recruitment agencies in Saudi Arabia
- Post on industry-specific job boards (Saudi Council of Engineers portal, LinkedIn)
- Connect with engineering departments at Saudi universities
- Attend industry conferences and networking events
- Consider staffing agencies in Saudi Arabia that specialize in engineering talent
Step 4: Evaluate Technical Skills & Cultural Fit
Implement a thorough assessment process:
- Technical interviews with senior structural engineers
- Design portfolio review showcasing previous projects
- Practical assessments using relevant software tools
- Problem-solving exercises related to Saudi construction challenges
- Cultural fit assessment for team integration
Step 5: Onboard Compliantly
Ensure a smooth, legally compliant start:
- Prepare employment contracts following Saudi labor laws
- Process work visas and residence permits for expatriates
- Register employees with required government agencies
- Conduct thorough orientation to company practices and project requirements
Asanify’s EOR services can significantly simplify this step by handling all compliance requirements, work permits, and onboarding documentation, enabling your new structural engineers to start working quickly while ensuring full adherence to labor laws in Saudi Arabia.
Salary Benchmarks
Understanding competitive compensation is crucial for attracting qualified structural design engineers in Saudi Arabia. The following table provides average monthly salary ranges in Saudi Riyal (SAR) based on experience levels:
| Experience Level | Monthly Salary Range (SAR) | Additional Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-3 years) | 8,000 – 15,000 | Basic health insurance, transportation allowance |
| Mid-Level (4-8 years) | 15,000 – 25,000 | Comprehensive health insurance, housing allowance, transportation |
| Senior Level (9+ years) | 25,000 – 45,000+ | Premium health coverage, housing, transportation, annual flights, education allowance |
| Department Head/Director | 45,000 – 80,000+ | Full benefits package, performance bonuses, profit sharing |
Note that these figures can vary based on factors such as:
- Company size and industry sector
- Employee nationality (expatriates often command different salaries)
- Specialized expertise or certifications
- Project complexity and responsibility level
- Location within Saudi Arabia (Riyadh and major cities typically offer higher compensation)
What Skills to Look for When Hiring Structural Design Engineers
When evaluating structural design engineers for projects in Saudi Arabia, assess both technical expertise and soft skills to ensure candidates can excel in their roles:
Essential Technical Skills
- Structural analysis mastery: Ability to perform complex calculations and analyze structural behavior under various loads
- Design software proficiency: Expert use of programs like ETABS, SAP2000, STAAD.Pro, and Tekla
- Code knowledge: Familiarity with Saudi Building Code (SBC), ACI, AISC, and other international standards
- BIM implementation: Experience with Building Information Modeling for collaborative design processes
- Materials expertise: Deep understanding of concrete, steel, and composite structural systems
- Environmental adaptation: Knowledge of designing for extreme heat, sandstorms, and other Saudi conditions
- Geotechnical considerations: Understanding of foundation design for Saudi Arabia’s soil conditions
- Documentation skills: Ability to produce detailed structural drawings and specifications
Critical Soft Skills
- Problem-solving: Creative approaches to complex structural challenges
- Communication: Clear articulation of technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders
- Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with architects, MEP engineers, and contractors
- Time management: Meeting tight project deadlines while maintaining quality
- Cultural awareness: Understanding of Saudi business practices and professional etiquette
- Adaptability: Flexibility in responding to changing project requirements
- Attention to detail: Precision in calculations and specifications
- Project management: Coordination of design phases and resource allocation
Legal and Compliance Considerations
Navigating Saudi Arabia’s regulatory framework is essential when hiring structural design engineers. Key compliance areas include:
Labor Law Compliance
Saudi labor law establishes specific requirements for employment contracts, working hours, leave entitlements, and termination procedures. Contracts must clearly define the nature of work, compensation, benefits, and term of employment. The standard work week is 48 hours with overtime requirements for additional hours.
Saudization (Nitaqat) Requirements
The Saudization program mandates minimum percentages of Saudi nationals in the workforce. Engineering firms typically fall under medium to high Saudization requirements. Non-compliance can result in restrictions on visa issuance, work permit renewals, and other business activities.
Licensing and Certification
Structural engineers must register with the Saudi Council of Engineers (SCE), with different grades based on education and experience. Foreign engineers require SCE verification of their credentials. For certain projects, additional specialized certifications may be mandatory.
Visa and Work Permits
Foreign structural engineers require work visas and residence permits (iqamas). The process involves multiple steps including educational credential verification, background checks, and health screenings.
Tax and Social Insurance
Companies must register employees with the General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI) and make contributions. Additionally, employers must withhold and remit taxes for expatriate employees under the Kingdom’s tax regulations.
Navigating these complex requirements can be challenging for companies without local expertise. Employer of Record service providers like Asanify ensure full compliance with all legal requirements while eliminating the administrative burden on the hiring company.
Common Challenges Global Employers Face
Companies hiring structural design engineers in Saudi Arabia often encounter several key obstacles:
Navigating Complex Regulatory Requirements
Saudi Arabia’s labor laws and employment regulations are intricate and frequently updated. Foreign employers struggle with Saudization quotas, work permit processes, and professional licensing requirements for engineers. Without local expertise, companies risk compliance violations that can lead to significant penalties.
Cultural and Communication Differences
Business practices in Saudi Arabia often differ from Western norms, particularly regarding negotiation styles, decision-making processes, and work expectations. Language barriers and different communication preferences can create misunderstandings that affect project outcomes.
Finding Specialized Engineering Talent
While Saudi Arabia has a growing pool of structural engineers, identifying candidates with specific technical expertise or experience with specialized structures can be challenging. Competition for top talent is intense, especially for engineers with international experience or advanced certifications.
Managing Remote Teams Effectively
For global companies operating with distributed teams, ensuring effective collaboration between Saudi-based structural engineers and team members in other locations presents coordination challenges. Time zone differences, technology limitations, and workflow integration require careful management.
Adapting to Market-Specific Design Requirements
Saudi Arabia has unique environmental conditions and building code requirements that affect structural design. Companies often struggle to align their global standards with local needs, particularly regarding seismic considerations, extreme temperature design, and sand-resistant construction techniques.
Asanify’s comprehensive EOR services address these challenges by providing local expertise in hiring, compliance management, and ongoing HR support, allowing companies to focus on their core engineering operations rather than administrative complexities.
Best Practices for Managing Remote Structural Design Engineers in Saudi Arabia
Successfully integrating Saudi Arabian structural engineers into your global team requires intentional management strategies:
Establish Clear Communication Protocols
- Implement regular video meetings that accommodate time zone differences
- Use collaborative design platforms that allow real-time feedback
- Document all design decisions and project requirements thoroughly
- Develop a glossary of technical terms to ensure consistent understanding
- Consider cultural communication preferences, including more formal initial interactions
Implement Effective Collaboration Tools
- Utilize cloud-based structural analysis and design software for synchronized work
- Establish a centralized document management system with version control
- Adopt BIM platforms that enable multi-disciplinary collaboration
- Implement project management software to track milestones and deliverables
- Use digital whiteboarding tools for conceptual design discussions
Bridge Cultural Differences
- Respect prayer times and religious observances in scheduling
- Acknowledge Saudi holidays and adjust project timelines accordingly
- Provide cultural orientation for team members working with Saudi engineers
- Be mindful of communication styles and business etiquette expectations
- Foster inclusive team activities that respect cultural preferences
Ensure Technical Integration
- Standardize software versions and configuration across all team locations
- Establish clear file naming conventions and folder structures
- Create detailed technical standards that align global practices with Saudi requirements
- Conduct regular technical review sessions to ensure design coherence
- Implement quality control processes that account for distributed team structure
Provide Professional Development
- Support continuing education relevant to both international standards and Saudi-specific requirements
- Facilitate knowledge sharing between international and Saudi team members
- Encourage participation in professional organizations like the Saudi Council of Engineers
- Create mentorship opportunities across global offices
- Recognize and leverage unique expertise that Saudi engineers bring to global projects
Why Use Asanify to Hire Structural Design Engineers in Saudi Arabia
Asanify provides a comprehensive solution for companies seeking to hire structural design engineers in Saudi Arabia without establishing a legal entity. Our specialized EOR services offer multiple advantages:
Streamlined Hiring Without Legal Complexity
Skip the months-long process of entity setup and navigate Saudi Arabia’s complex regulatory environment with ease. Asanify serves as the legal employer of record while you maintain full operational control of your engineering team.
Complete Compliance Management
Our team ensures adherence to all aspects of Saudi labor laws, engineering licensing requirements, and Saudization quotas. We handle employment contracts, work permits, professional registrations, and mandatory insurance, eliminating compliance risks for your company.
Specialized Engineering Talent Acquisition
Leverage our extensive network in the Saudi engineering sector to identify and recruit structural design engineers with the precise technical skills your projects require. We understand the nuanced requirements of engineering roles and can help you find specialists in high-rise structures, industrial facilities, or infrastructure projects.
Competitive Benefits Administration
Attract and retain top structural engineering talent with regionally competitive compensation packages. Asanify manages all aspects of payroll, benefits administration, and statutory requirements, ensuring your engineers receive appropriate compensation while you maintain cost predictability.
Dedicated Local Support
Our Saudi-based team provides ongoing support for both employers and employees, addressing day-to-day HR needs, facilitating communication, and resolving any issues that arise. This local presence ensures smooth operations and culturally appropriate management of your engineering talent.
With Asanify, you can outsource work to Saudi Arabia while maintaining full compliance and operational efficiency, allowing your structural design engineers to focus on their technical expertise rather than administrative complexities.
FAQs: Hiring Structural Design Engineers in Saudi Arabia
What qualifications should structural design engineers in Saudi Arabia have?
Structural design engineers should hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering. For senior positions, a master’s degree is often preferred. Additionally, registration with the Saudi Council of Engineers is mandatory, with classification levels based on experience and education. Professional certifications like PE (Professional Engineer) or equivalent international qualifications are valuable, especially for engineers working on critical infrastructure projects.
How long does it take to hire a structural engineer in Saudi Arabia?
The timeline varies based on your hiring approach. With a local entity, the process typically takes 2-3 months, including recruitment, interviews, offer negotiation, and work permit processing for expatriates. Using an Employer of Record service like Asanify can reduce this timeline to 3-4 weeks, as the EOR handles administrative processes while you focus on candidate selection.
What are the salary expectations for structural design engineers in Saudi Arabia?
Entry-level structural engineers typically earn 8,000-15,000 SAR monthly, mid-level engineers 15,000-25,000 SAR, and senior engineers 25,000-45,000+ SAR. Department heads can command 45,000-80,000+ SAR. These figures often include housing and transportation allowances. Expatriate engineers may receive additional benefits like annual home leave flights, education allowances for children, and relocation packages.
Do I need a legal entity to hire structural engineers in Saudi Arabia?
No, you don’t need a legal entity if you use an Employer of Record (EOR) service like Asanify. The EOR acts as the legal employer while you maintain day-to-day work direction. This approach eliminates the need for company registration, capital requirements, and ongoing corporate compliance management while ensuring all employment is fully compliant with Saudi regulations.
How does Saudization affect hiring structural engineers?
Engineering firms must meet specific Saudization quotas based on company size and sector classification. These quotas typically range from 15-30% for engineering services companies. Non-compliance affects visa processing and business operations. Strategic approaches include hiring Saudi nationals for certain roles, partnering with universities for graduate recruitment, or using an EOR that manages Saudization requirements on your behalf.
What software skills are most in-demand for structural engineers in Saudi Arabia?
The most sought-after software proficiencies include ETABS and SAP2000 for structural analysis, Revit Structure and AutoCAD for design documentation, SAFE for foundation design, and Tekla Structures for detailing. Familiarity with BIM workflows is increasingly important, as is experience with specialized software for seismic analysis and wind engineering, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s diverse building challenges.
How do I verify the qualifications of Saudi structural engineers?
Verify credentials through the Saudi Council of Engineers (SCE), which maintains a database of registered engineers with classification levels. Request detailed portfolios of past projects and conduct technical interviews involving practical design scenarios. For critical roles, consider skills assessments using standard structural design software. References from previous employers on specific project contributions are also valuable verification tools.
What are the working hours and leave policies for engineers in Saudi Arabia?
The standard work week is 48 hours, typically Sunday through Thursday. Engineers are entitled to 21 days of annual leave, increasing to 30 days after five years of service. Additionally, employees receive paid leave for official holidays, including Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and Saudi National Day. Sick leave provisions include 30 days with full pay, 60 days with 75% pay, and 30 days with 50% pay per year.
Can I hire Saudi structural engineers to work remotely for international projects?
Yes, many Saudi structural engineers work remotely on international projects. This arrangement requires clear communication protocols, compatible software systems, and regular coordination meetings. When hiring through an EOR like Asanify, you can employ Saudi-based engineers for global projects while ensuring compliance with local labor laws, proper contract arrangements, and appropriate tax handling for international work.
What are the typical notice periods and termination requirements?
Saudi labor law requires a minimum notice period of 60 days for unlimited term contracts. For fixed-term contracts, early termination may require compensation unless mutually agreed upon. Proper documentation of performance issues is essential for termination due to underperformance. Severance pay (end-of-service benefits) is calculated based on years of service, typically half a month’s salary per year for the first five years and one month’s salary per year thereafter.
How can I ensure my structural engineers stay updated with Saudi building codes?
Support continuous professional development through subscriptions to code update services, membership in professional organizations like the Saudi Council of Engineers, and participation in industry seminars. Establish regular internal knowledge-sharing sessions on code changes, and consider bringing in specialized consultants for training on significant code updates. Asanify can help arrange professional development opportunities tailored to Saudi regulatory requirements.
What challenges might foreign companies face when hiring structural engineers in Saudi Arabia?
Common challenges include navigating complex labor regulations, securing work permits for expatriate engineers, meeting Saudization requirements, and understanding local professional licensing. Cultural differences in work practices, communication styles, and project management can also present adjustment periods. Using an Employer of Record service like Asanify addresses these challenges by providing local expertise and handling all compliance aspects of employment.
Conclusion
Hiring structural design engineers in Saudi Arabia offers global companies access to professionals with unique expertise in complex infrastructure projects, extreme environment design, and modern engineering methodologies. The Kingdom’s massive construction sector has fostered a generation of engineers who combine technical excellence with cultural understanding that can benefit projects worldwide.
While navigating Saudi Arabia’s employment landscape presents challenges – from regulatory compliance to professional licensing requirements – the right approach can make the process straightforward. Companies can choose between establishing a legal entity for long-term operations or partnering with an Employer of Record for faster, more flexible hiring.
For organizations seeking immediate access to Saudi engineering talent without the complexities of entity setup, Asanify’s EOR services provide a comprehensive solution. Our specialized knowledge of the Saudi engineering sector, combined with our compliance expertise, enables companies to build and manage high-performing structural design teams while minimizing administrative burden and risk.
Whether you’re expanding operations into the Middle East, seeking specialized expertise for global projects, or building a distributed engineering team, Saudi structural design engineers offer valuable skills and perspectives that can enhance your company’s capabilities and competitiveness in the international marketplace.
Not to be considered as tax, legal, financial or HR advice. Regulations change over time so please consult a lawyer, accountant or Labour Law expert for specific guidance.