Senior Associate - Master Planning

Company Overview

AECOM is an international infrastructure consulting organization focused on solving complex challenges that improve communities and shape the built environment. Its work spans major public- and private-sector projects across water, environment, energy, transportation, and buildings, supported by a large global team of planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital specialists, program managers, and construction professionals.

The company emphasizes innovation, sustainability, resilience, and career growth, offering opportunities to contribute to projects with local and global impact.

Role Summary

The Senior Associate - Master Planning role involves providing architectural direction, analytical support, studies, and recommendations for a specialized area of architectural work while keeping project timelines and budgets in mind. The position also includes leading and supporting teams, improving delivery quality, and contributing technical expertise on complex assignments.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide architectural guidance, calculations, analysis, studies, and recommendations for a defined area within the architectural discipline.
• Deliver work within the limits of the approved schedule and budget for the assigned project.
• Lead groups of architects, designers, and specialists of varying sizes while encouraging teamwork and high performance.
• Support senior project architectural or engineering managers on complex efforts by contributing technical input.
• Monitor project execution to ensure design integrity, quality standards, and regulatory compliance across all phases.
• Coach and develop team members through feedback, mentoring, and growth-focused guidance.
• Work with engineering, construction, and client teams to align design outcomes with project goals and constraints.
• Track project costs and resources, and adjust allocations to improve efficiency.
• Review designs and perform quality checks to confirm technical accuracy and adherence to architectural best practices.
• Take part in strategic planning and recommend improvements and innovations in the design process.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Design, Engineering, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• At least 10 years of professional experience in architectural design, including a minimum of 5 years in a senior or leadership capacity.
• Strong understanding of architectural design principles, building systems, and construction methods.
• Proven ability to manage and mentor teams made up of architects, designers, and technical specialists.
• Good knowledge of building codes, regulatory frameworks, and industry standards, including ADA, IBC, and local zoning rules.
• Proficiency in professional design software and BIM tools.
• Solid project management capability with a track record of delivering on time and within budget.
• Excellent written and spoken communication skills, including the ability to explain complex design ideas to stakeholders.
• Experience in design reviews and quality assurance checks.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with engineering, construction, and client representatives.
• Preferred background includes a master's degree in Architecture, Design, or a related area.
• A professional architecture license such as RA/AIA, or an equivalent credential, is preferred.
• Experience with sustainable design and LEED certification is an advantage.
• Familiarity with project management methods and tools is preferred.
• Experience in strategic planning, process improvement, mentoring, and awareness of emerging design technologies is valued.

Additional Information

As part of its security and hiring controls, AECOM requires all newly hired employees to complete in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office as a condition of employment.

Benefits and Workplace Culture

AECOM offers a comprehensive benefits package that may include medical, dental, and vision coverage; life and AD&D insurance; disability benefits; paid time off; leave options; voluntary benefits; flexible work arrangements; well-being resources; employee assistance support; business travel insurance; service recognition awards; retirement savings; and an employee stock purchase plan, depending on employment status.

The company describes itself as a collaborative, respectful, and growth-oriented workplace with access to global projects, advanced technology, expert networks, and training programs designed to build technical and leadership capability.

AECOM is an equal opportunity employer and states that all candidate information is handled confidentially in line with applicable EEO guidelines.

Role Details

Business Line: Transportation

Business Group: DCS

Strategic Business Unit: ME and Africa

Career Area: Design

Work Location Model: On-Site

Reference ID: J10152414