Riyas Thanikkal

Dynamic BIM & Prefabrication Specialist with 15+ Years of Experience in Modular Construction, MEP Coordination, and Project Leadership.

As a seasoned BIM/Prefabrication Design Engineer at Off-Site Engineering Solutions FZE, Dubai, I bring expertise in designing modular housing, MEP modules, and bathroom pods. My role involves leading projects from conceptual design to implementation, driving prefabrication strategies to enhance efficiency in off-site construction. I’m skilled in conducting project feasibility studies, defining target areas for prefabrication, and implementing BIM standards to streamline workflows.

In addition to technical design, I develop and deliver training programs for internal and external teams on prefabrication methodologies and BIM best practices. I’m deeply involved in managing logistics and process planning, ensuring seamless integration of prefabrication into project timelines.

Previously, as Design Lead at Weathermaker Limited/Voltas, I oversaw the full lifecycle of MEP prefabricated modules, from scope studies to final installation. I collaborated closely with production teams to align designs with prefabrication goals and managed the development of regulatory drawings and BIM standards for large-scale modular projects.

Earlier in my career, as a Modular Design Technician at Off-Site Engineering Solutions and Drake & Scull International, I specialized in 3D modeling and MEP module design using Revit and Navisworks, preparing detailed shop drawings and BOQs for modular construction. I led teams in delivering quality-oriented shop drawings, ensuring alignment with prefabrication and modular standards.

At Saudi Binladin Group, I worked as a Mechanical Draftsman, where I designed ETS plant rooms, provided critical Revit support, and coordinated with multidisciplinary teams for 3D model integration and MEP coordination. I consistently delivered precise shop drawings and as-built drawings for complex projects.

My diverse background across BIM, prefabrication, and modular construction enables me to lead innovative solutions in off-site design, driving successful project outcomes while maintaining efficiency, scalability, and high quality standards.

BIM / PREFABRICATION ( MODULAR) DESIGN ENGINEER

Off-Site Engineering Solutions FZE (Dubai)

MAY 2016 - PRESENT

• Lead client engagement and business development efforts by preparing technical presentations and participating in client meetings, proposals, and design showcases.
• Drive innovation in modular construction through research and development of advanced techniques to improve efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Oversee design and execution of prefabrication solutions including modular housing, MEP multi-service modules, bathroom pods, and off-site construction facilities.
• Develop digital workflows and automation strategies to streamline design, production, and coordination using BIM, data integration, and advanced modeling tools.
• Optimize installation sequencing to reduce site disruptions, material handling challenges, and improve overall construction timelines.
• Lead feasibility studies and design reviews to assess constructability, compliance, and integration potential of prefabricated components into conventional workflows.
• Establish and enforce BIM standards to ensure consistent coordination and model integrity across projects and disciplines.
• Coordinate schedules, logistics, and resource planning for prefabrication works in alignment with project deadlines and construction sequencing.
• Design and deliver training programs for internal teams and client organizations on prefabrication methodologies, BIM usage, and digital tools.
• Research and implement alternative materials and systems for enhanced modular performance, sustainability, and adaptability.

DESIGN LEAD ( PREFABRICATED MULTI-SERVICE MODULES)

Weathermaker Limited – Voltas (Dubai)

OCT 2014 - APR 2016

• Conceptualization and execution of prefabricated MEP module designs from scope study to on-site installation.
• Optimization of modular design strategies to enhance manufacturability and ease of integration.
• Coordination with production teams to refine modular component detailing, improving efficiency in prefabrication and assembly.
• Clash detection and constructability analysis to ensure seamless integration of prefabricated elements.
• Standardization of modular workflows to align with project-specific requirements and site constraints.
• Developed innovative space-saving MEP module layouts to maximize efficiency in constrained environments.
• Worked closely with project stakeholders to refine prefabrication adoption strategies, reducing dependency on traditional site-based installation.

MODULAR DESIGN TECHNICIAN ( MEP MODULE)

Off-Site Engineering Solutions FZE (Dubai)

OCT 2013 - SEP 2014

• 3D design and coordination of modular MEP solutions for corridors and risers using digital modeling tools.
• Study of project drawings to identify prefabrication opportunities and develop optimized module layouts.
• Preparation of detailed shop drawings, digital mock-ups, and BOQs to support production and assembly teams.
• Development of coordination strategies to resolve conflicts between structural, architectural, and MEP elements.
• Participation in project presentations and technical meetings to align prefabrication goals with project requirements.

MECHANICAL DRAUGHTSMAN

Saudi Binladin Group (Riyadh)

JUN 2010 - SEP 2013

• Design and drafting of MEP systems using Revit and AutoCAD for large-scale construction projects.
• Integration of multi-discipline 3D models to streamline coordination and minimize design conflicts.
• Preparation of detailed schematics for central air systems, chilled water systems, and fire ventilation networks.
• Collaboration with engineers and site teams to optimize MEP layouts and ensure compliance with project specifications.

KERALA TECHNICAL EDUCATION BOARD

Diploma, Mechanical Engineering (2005-2008)