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Together we make the difference

We are a leading provider of innovative and high-performance solutions for airport logistics. Our portfolio includes products and solutions for baggage and cargo handling, high-end software for the digitalization of logistics processes as well as an extensive range of maintenance and services. Major customers include renowned airports and airlines around the globe.

Join us to lead the mechanical installation scope for Baggage and Cargo Handling System projects from site mobilisation through mechanical completion and handover. The role will ensure safe, high-quality installation, control subcontractor output and labour productivity, and coordinate mechanical readiness with Engineering, Quality and Commissioning teams.

What are my job responsibilities?

  • Lead and coordinate the mechanical installation scope from site mobilisation through mechanical completion and handover. Report to the Site Manager and coordinate with commissioning and service teams within the assigned project scope.
  • Provide hands-on technical leadership to subcontractors, supervisors and internal teams. Prepare and implement mechanical installation method statements, risk assessments and work permits with the relevant project and HSE teams.
  • Plan mechanical manpower, tools, lifting equipment and consumables with Site Management and Procurement. Confirm availability and suitability before releasing work fronts.
  • Coordinate with other contractors and stakeholders to secure site access, work fronts and installation interfaces. Plan work within approved access windows and operational restrictions, particularly in live airport environments.
  • Review mechanical drawings, layouts, specifications and technical documentation for constructability, access, tolerances and interfaces. Raise technical queries and obtain Engineering approval before implementing any design change.
  • Prepare executable work packages with approved drawings, quantities, installation sequences, manpower requirements, inspection points and completion criteria. Brief supervisors and subcontractors before work starts.
  • Support the proposals department with realistic installation quantities, manpower estimates, durations and site constraints. Capture lessons learnt and apply improvements to subsequent projects.
  •  Measure installed quantities, labour hours and productivity against the approved plan. Maintain short-term look-ahead plans, report progress and constraints accurately, and propose recovery actions to the Site Manager.
  • Coordinate mechanical inspections with the Quality team against approved inspection and test plans. Drive closure of defects, non-conformities and snag items, and prepare mechanical completion and handover records.
  • Identify installation and technical risks early, assess their impact on safety, quality, cost and schedule, and coordinate preventive or corrective actions with Engineering and Site Management.
  • Collaborate closely with Site Management, Engineering, Logistics and Procurement to sequence material deliveries and maintain efficient site execution. Verify mechanical deliveries and report shortages, damage or discrepancies promptly.
  • Ensure mechanical works comply with approved drawings, specifications, installation manuals and project requirements. Verify alignment, levelling, belt tracking, tensioning, fastener torque, supports and guarding before releasing equipment for testing.
  • Enforce occupational health, safety, security, environmental and quality requirements within the mechanical scope. Stop unsafe work and escalate promptly; verify that lifting, work at height and equipment isolation follow approved procedures.
  • Lead site mechanical engineers and mechanical installation technicians by assigning work, setting daily priorities, providing technical guidance, monitoring performance and developing their capabilities. Lead mechanical coordination and toolbox briefings, verify workmanship and hold subcontractors accountable for agreed output and corrective actions.
  • Coordinate mechanical readiness with electrical, controls and commissioning teams. Support safe pre-commissioning checks and functional testing, and resolve mechanical issues within the assigned scope.
  • Maintain installation records, marked-up drawings and material reconciliation. Record rework, delays and scope changes promptly, and refer potential cost or schedule impacts to the Site Manager before proceeding with additional work.

What do I need to qualify for this role?

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or an equivalent relevant engineering qualification.
  • Minimum eight years of relevant mechanical installation experience in baggage handling or material handling systems, including at least three years leading site teams or subcontractors. Demonstrated delivery of a substantial installation scope through mechanical completion and handover is essential.
  • Proven ability to lead multicultural site teams, allocate work, coach supervisors and resolve site issues. Able to challenge poor workmanship, manage subcontractor performance and communicate clearly with internal and external stakeholders.
  • Proficient in reading mechanical layouts, assembly drawings and technical specifications, with practical AutoCAD skills. Experience using Revit or other 3D model review tools for installation coordination is an advantage.
  • Strong practical knowledge of conveyor installation, drives, bearings, belts, rollers, steel supports, guarding, alignment and mechanical fault finding. Able to diagnose installation defects and coordinate corrective action with Engineering.
  • Flexibility to travel and work across the Middle East as required by business needs is mandatory, including extended site assignments and night or weekend shifts where project access windows require them.
  • Strong spoken and written English, including clear technical reports, site instructions and coordination meetings. Arabic or other languages would be an advantage.
  • Proven experience planning installation sequences, measuring physical progress and labour productivity, and preparing practical recovery plans. Working knowledge of Excel and site progress reporting is essential.
  • Experience working in live airports or similarly constrained operational facilities, including permits, restricted access and coordination with ongoing operations, is strongly preferred.
  • Practical experience with subcontractor supervision, mechanical inspections, defect resolution and completion documentation is essential. Candidates must be able to explain their own responsibilities and provide specific examples of delivered projects and measurable results.

Diversity & Inclusion

Vanderlande is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Qualified applicants will be considered without regards to race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, or disability status.