Head of Department (Civil) – Aluminium Smelter (Greenfield Project)

The Head of Department – Civil will lead the complete civil and structural engineering scope for a large-scale Aluminum Smelter Greenfield Project, from concept to commissioning. The incumbent will be responsible for design management, engineering coordination, construction supervision, and quality assurance across all civil, structural, and architectural works. This role demands a senior technical leader with extensive experience in heavy industrial construction, foundation engineering, large-scale plant layouts, and infrastructure development in greenfield environments.Responsibilities1. Strategic Planning & Department LeadershipLead the Civil & Structural Engineering Department, managing multidisciplinary design and construction teams.Develop the civil execution strategy, design basis, and construction methodologies tailored to smelter and associated facilities.Ensure alignment of civil engineering deliverables with project objectives, budget, and schedule.Plan, assign, and review engineering activities to meet project milestones.2. Design & Engineering ManagementOversee conceptual, basic, and detailed design of all civil and structural works for the smelter complex, including:Potlines, Carbon Plant, Cast House, Utility & Power Block, Workshops, and WarehousesInfrastructure (roads, drainage, culverts, earthworks, retaining structures)Foundations for heavy equipment and process structuresReview and approve design calculations, drawings, and technical specifications from consultants and EPC contractors.Coordinate with process, mechanical, electrical, and instrumentation teams to ensure seamless design integration.Ensure compliance with international codes and standards (ACI, AISC, BS, Eurocode, etc.) and local statutory requirements.3. Construction Supervision & Quality ControlLead and supervise all civil construction activities on-site, ensuring adherence to design, quality, and safety standards.Monitor progress of earthworks, piling, concreting, and structural steel erection.Approve method statements, ITPs (Inspection & Test Plans), and quality documentation.Resolve field engineering issues and ensure timely response to RFIs and NCRs.4. Contract & Vendor ManagementProvide technical input for tendering, bid evaluation, and contract finalization of civil packages.Interface with EPC contractors, consultants, and subcontractors to ensure technical compliance and performance.Monitor and control costs within approved budgets and support value engineering initiatives.5. Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE)Champion safety culture within civil and structural activities.Ensure construction methods, materials, and equipment meet HSE requirements.Participate in audits, safety reviews, and constructability assessments.6. Stakeholder Coordination & ReportingLiaise with Project Management, Client Representatives, and external authorities.Provide high-level technical advice to management on risk, design optimization, and project strategy.Prepare progress reports, design summaries, and executive-level updates.QualificationsBachelor’s or Master’s degree in civil / Structural Engineering from a recognized institution.Minimum 25 years of experience in heavy industrial projects, preferably Aluminium Smelter.At least 10 years in a leadership or departmental head role within EPC or Owner’s Engineer organizations.Proven experience in Greenfield project execution from design through commissioning.