Airport Airside Design Specialist

Job Description
Shape the Future of Airside Infrastructure with WSP South Africa
Are you passionate about delivering innovative, sustainable, and safe airport infrastructure? WSP, a global leader in engineering and design, is seeking a talented and experienced Airport Airside Design Specialist to join our growing aviation business in South Africa. This is your opportunity to work on landmark projects, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across the globe, and help shape the future of aviation across the African continent.

About The Role
As an Airport Airside Design Specialist, you will play a key role in the planning, design, and delivery of airside infrastructure projects, including runways, taxiways, aprons, and associated facilities at major South African and African airports. You will work closely with airport operators, contractors, and internal teams to ensure that all designs meet the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance (ICAO, IATA, and other relevant standards).

You will be responsible for leading technical delivery from feasibility through to construction support, coordinating multidisciplinary inputs, and mentoring junior engineers. The role offers significant scope for leadership, influence, and career progression within a dynamic and client-focused team

Responsibilities
Key Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver the design of airside infrastructure (runways, taxiways, aprons, airfield ground lighting, drainage, and related facilities) from concept through to detailed design and construction support.
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant safety regulations and aviation guidelines, including ICAO, IATA and other applicable standards.
• Prepare and review technical reports, design drawings, specifications, and cost estimates.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary project teams, including architects, engineers, and construction professionals.
• Act as the primary point of contact for clients, stakeholders, and contractors throughout the project lifecycle.
• Conduct site visits, inspections, and technical assessments as required.
• Mentor and support the development of junior engineers and technical staff.
• Contribute to business development activities, including technical input for bids and proposals.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in airside design and airport development.
• Promote and uphold WSP's commitment to health, safety, quality, and sustainability in all project work.

Qualifications
Qualifications and Required Experience

• A Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field is the minimum requirement. A Master's degree in airports engineering is preferred.
• Proven experience in the design and delivery of airside infrastructure projects (runways, taxiways, aprons, airfield ground lighting, drainage, etc.), ideally within South Africa or the broader African region.
• Strong knowledge of relevant regulations and standards (ICAO, IATA, and other relevant standards).
• Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, AviPLAN, and/or similar tools.
• Excellent technical report writing, analytical, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to coordinate multidisciplinary teams and manage client relationships.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Willingness to travel within South Africa and internationally as required.

Desirable Skills

• Experience with airside safety, capacity, and operational studies.
• Familiarity with BIM, digital design tools, and simulation software (e.g., AirTOP, CAST).
• Experience in mentoring and developing early-career professionals.
• Knowledge of sustainability and decarbonisation initiatives in aviation.
• Experience working with South African airport authorities

Why WSP South Africa?

• Work on high-profile, complex airport projects in South Africa, Africa, UK and Canada.
• Join a collaborative, diverse, and supportive team environment.
• Access to ongoing professional development, training, and career progression opportunities.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Flexible working arrangements and a strong commitment to work-life balance.