At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative landscape projects and mentor a talented team in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join AECOM, a leader in sustainable design and landscape architecture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and the chance to work on high-profile projects.
- Other info: Opportunity to work on diverse projects and contribute to environmental sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on urban spaces while advancing your career in a collaborative team.
- Qualifications: Chartered Landscape Architect with project management experience and strong design skills.
AECOM is seeking Principal Landscape Architects to join and support the growth of our Landscape Architecture team. As part of one of the UK&I’s largest and most diverse landscape practices, you will undertake high‑profile regional and global projects across various sectors including urban regeneration, residential development, environmental enhancement schemes, resorts, and aviation projects. Our portfolio includes collaborations with local authorities, private clients, and global developers, delivering innovative and sustainable design solutions that support progress towards net zero and deliver wider environmental and social benefits. This role offers the opportunity to deliver transformative projects, mentor a talented team, and contribute to AECOM’s reputation for design excellence. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and collaboration, this position is ideal for a self‑motivated individual seeking to advance their career in a dynamic and experienced team.
Responsibilities
- Oversee the design and delivery of landscape schemes.
- Manage project financial, programme, and contractual responsibilities, including administering contracts such as JCLI.
- Present design concepts to clients and represent AECOM’s design vision.
- Share knowledge and support a culture of continuous growth and development.
- Mentor and develop junior staff, acting as a P2C mentor and line manager.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, stakeholders, and collaborators.
- Seek new work through proactive client engagement and business development.
- Prepare and develop designs through all stages of development from initial feasibility to production of construction information.
- Produce or oversee the production of reports, drawings, and other technical documentation with the necessary level of detail for the various stages of development, using appropriate software.
- Work iteratively within multidisciplinary teams to deliver cohesive and integrated design solutions.
Experience
- Chartered Member of the Landscape Institute (CMLI) with at least three years post‑Chartership experience.
- Proven track record of designing public realm schemes and managing complex multi‑disciplinary projects.
- Thorough knowledge of the UK planning system relevant to landscape architecture.
- Experience in project management, including financial control, reporting, and programme management.
Technical Skills
- Proficient in AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Cloud, and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Experience with Revit and/or Civil 3D is highly desirable.
- Skilled in preparing clear graphics, technical reports, and construction documentation.
- Strong communication skills, including fluency in written and spoken English.
Additional Requirements
- Full UK driving licence for site visits.
Qualifications
- Landscape Institute accredited Bachelor’s degree, Diploma, and/or Master’s degree.
- Chartered Member of the Landscape Institute (CMLI).
We are a Disability Confident Employer and will offer an interview to applicants who have a disability or long‑term condition, who meet the minimum/essential criteria for the role. Please let us know using this email address [email protected] if you would like to apply through the Disability Confident Interview Scheme. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
Principal Landscape Architect employer: AECO
AECOM is an exceptional employer, offering Principal Landscape Architects the chance to work on high-profile projects in a vibrant London location. With a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture that fosters professional growth through mentorship and diverse project experiences. The company prioritises employee development and well-being, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in landscape architecture.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Landscape Architect
✨Get Your Portfolio Game On Point
As an aspiring architect, your portfolio is your golden ticket. Make sure it's not just a collection of your best work, but tells a story about your design process and creative thought. Showcase a range of projects, from conceptual sketches to final renderings—think of it as a visual CV!
✨Slide into Networking Events
Architecture thrives on community connections, so keep an eye out for local architecture meetups, exhibitions, and lectures. These events are gold for meeting industry professionals, and who knows? You might just bump into someone from AECO who can give you the insider scoop on their hiring process!
✨Learn the Software Inside Out
Make sure you're up to speed with design software like AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp. Being able to discuss your proficiency during interviews can really set you apart. Plus, if you can mention particular projects where you’ve used them, you’ll demonstrate both skill and practical experience.
✨Refine Your Interview Skills
Interviews for architecture roles can get quite technical, so practice answering questions about your design process and decision-making strategies. Prepare for potential design challenges they might put forward in interviews—show them you can think on your feet and come up with innovative solutions!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Landscape Architect
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Design Skills:Architecture is all about creativity and technical skills, so make sure your portfolio is front and centre! Include a range of your best projects, showcasing different styles and techniques. Don't forget to explain your design process and the challenges you overcame for each project – it gives hiring managers a glimpse into your thought process!
Tailor Your CV to Architecture:When putting together your CV, highlight relevant experience in architectural design software, like AutoCAD or Revit. Plus, if you have any internships or coursework that involved real-world projects, be sure to mention them. We want to see not just what you've done, but how it relates directly to this role at AECO!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to express your passion for architecture and what drew you to AECO. Talk about specific projects or values of theirs you admire, and how you see yourself contributing to their team. We want to feel your enthusiasm – let it shine through your words!
Use Professional Terminology:Don't shy away from using industry-specific jargon that demonstrates your expertise! Terms like 'sustainability', 'scale', and 'aesthetics' can not only show your knowledge but also help you connect with the hiring team. Just ensure it's done in a way that's relatable and not overly technical, so we can see your passion clearly!
How to prepare for a job interview at AECO
✨Master the Technical Questions
In an architecture interview, be ready to tackle some technical questions about building codes, design principles, and software like AutoCAD or Revit. Brush up on your knowledge of materials and components, as you might even face scenarios to solve during the interview that showcase your problem-solving skills in real-time.
✨Bring Your Portfolio to Life
Your portfolio is your golden ticket! Make sure it not only showcases your best work but also highlights your design thinking process, from sketches to final outputs. During the interview, be prepared to discuss the projects in detail—what challenges you faced, how you overcame them, and what you learnt.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Sustainability
In today's architecture landscape, sustainability is key. Be sure to highlight any projects that involved eco-friendly designs or your understanding of sustainable practices. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the trends but are genuinely passionate about creating a better future through your designs.
✨Engage with Your Interviewers
Architecture is a collaborative field, so showing that you're a team player is essential. When conversing with the interviewers, actively listen and respond to their ideas. This isn’t just about you showing off your skills, but also about connecting and demonstrating how well you’d fit into their team at AECO.
