Facade and Glass SME

Parsons Corporation

The Senior Subject Matter Expert (SME) Facade and Glass Systems will function as the ultimate Technical Authority for all exterior building envelope systems across strategic segments of The Line. Reporting directly to Executive Leadership, this role demands a professional with a minimum of 25 years of progressive global experience in facade engineering, building physics, and the successful delivery of landmark, complex glazed structures.

The SME will be responsible for defining and enforcing the highest technical standards, validating specialized designs, resolving critical interface challenges, and ensuring the facade systems meet the project s exceptional performance requirements for sustainability, energy efficiency, and futuristic aesthetics.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Authority and Design Validation:

• Serve as the principal technical reviewer and final approver for all facade, structural glazing, curtain wall, and building envelope system designs.
• Lead expert reviews of complex facade engineering calculations, including advanced analysis for structural loads (wind, seismic), thermal performance, building movement tolerance, and acoustic isolation.
• Develop and maintain the overarching facade technical specifications and performance criteria to ensure compliance with NEOM's groundbreaking design intent and international best practices.
• Provide high-level guidance on material selection, specifically for advanced glass technologies (e.g., smart glass, triple-glazing, high-performance coatings) and specialized cladding materials.

Project Assurance and Risk Management:

• Oversee and audit the Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) programs for global facade manufacturers, fabricators, and specialized installation contractors.
• Proactively manage and resolve complex technical interface conflicts between the facade systems, primary structure, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) integration, and the overall building envelope.
• Direct the testing protocols for facade components, including full-scale mock-ups, performance testing (Airtightness, Water Penetration, Structural Integrity), and durability assessments in the harsh desert and coastal environment.
• Lead failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) for facade systems to mitigate structural or operational risks.

Leadership and Stakeholder Management:

• Act as the senior technical representative in high-stakes meetings with the Client (NEOM), design consultants, and major international facade vendors.
• Mentor and guide Parsons in-house engineering and site teams on complex facade installation techniques, safe work practices (working at heights), and long-term maintenance requirements.
• Drive the implementation of digital solutions and BIM methodologies for facade design coordination and clash detection.