At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead architectural design for complex projects in defence and nuclear sectors.
- Company: Join AECOM, a global leader in infrastructure consulting.
- Benefits: Flexible work options, extra leave, and continuous learning opportunities.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with strong support for personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on iconic projects while growing your career.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in architecture with leadership experience in regulated environments.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Come and grow with us. Our global portfolio of work comprises the design of iconic and award-winning buildings and landscapes. From strategic planning through to project realisation, the connections we make among people and place provide sustainable outcomes for our clients and the communities we serve. We place a premium on investing in digital capabilities and innovations which bring a unique consistency and efficiency to our scalable work. Together with our clients, we are working to evolve and elevate the built environment across sectors including social infrastructure, transit, technology and logistics, and commercial and corporate real estate, while focusing on solutions that promote long term health and wellbeing for all.
We’re committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging - because great ideas come from diverse perspectives. AECOM is proud to be a Fortune 500 Most Admired Company, a WGEA Employer of Choice for Gender Equality, #Work180 Equitable Workplace Awards 2025 Winner and an AWEI Bronze Tier LGBTQ+ Inclusive Employer.
As an Associate Director – Project Architect you will lead the design and delivery of complex facilities within highly regulated environments including defence, research and nuclear infrastructure. You will provide architectural leadership across multidisciplinary teams, guiding coordinated design outcomes from concept through to delivery while maintaining strong alignment with safety and operational requirements. The role requires a balance of strong design capability, technical leadership and stakeholder engagement with responsibility for shaping project direction, managing interfaces and ensuring design integrity is maintained throughout all stages of delivery.
How you’ll make a difference:
- Lead the architectural design and delivery of complex defence, research, and nuclear infrastructure projects within highly regulated environments
- Act as Project Architect, maintaining design intent and ensuring coordinated, high-quality outcomes across all project stages
- Lead multidisciplinary design coordination, integrating architectural, structural, services, and specialist systems into cohesive solutions
- Translate nuclear safety case and regulatory requirements into robust architectural design responses in collaboration with subject matter experts
- Oversee design development, technical documentation, and compliance with relevant standards including Defence, NCC, IAEA, and applicable nuclear frameworks
- Lead client and stakeholder engagement, building trusted relationships and ensuring alignment across project objectives and expectations
- Provide technical leadership, mentoring, and guidance to project teams while driving continuous improvement and delivery excellence
The qualities that help you thrive:
- Accredited degree in Architecture with registration as an Architect in Australia (or eligibility for registration)
- 10+ years’ experience in architecture, including leadership roles on complex, safety-critical projects
- Proven experience acting as Project Architect and/or Principal Consultant on medium to large-scale projects
- Demonstrated experience in highly regulated environments such as defence, laboratories, pharmaceutical, healthcare, or nuclear-related facilities
- Strong understanding of Defence design standards, government delivery frameworks, and regulatory compliance requirements
- Experience working with safety-in-design principles, human factors, and complex systems integration in high-hazard environments
- Australian Citizenship (or eligibility for AUKUS clearance) is required; NSQEP recognition and/or postgraduate qualifications are highly regarded
Why you’ll love working with us:
- Flexible work arrangements, including alternative start/finish times, full-time, part-time, job-sharing and hybrid work options
- Purchase up to 6 weeks additional annual leave per year
- Flex public holidays – swap Easter or other holidays for ones that suit you better
- Continuous learning and growth - lunch and learns, professional development courses, financial study assistance, 5 days paid study leave, global career opportunities
We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, additional health or mental health needs, and/or neurodiverse conditions. If you require any adjustments during the hiring process, please let us know. Applications are reviewed as they come in, and the role may close earlier than expected, so if this opportunity sounds like you, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.
AECOM acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands on which we, our clients and our communities live and work around Australia. We pay our respects to their cultures and to their Elders — past, present, and emerging. We are committed to connecting to Country in our work through meaningful engagement with First Nations peoples and businesses.
Relocate to Australia: Associate Director - Project Architect (NSQEP) in Plymouth employer: AECOM
At AECOM, we pride ourselves on being a leading employer that champions diversity, equity, and inclusion, creating a workplace where every individual can thrive. Our flexible work arrangements, generous leave options, and commitment to continuous learning ensure that our employees have the support they need for both personal and professional growth. Located in Australia, you will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to delivering innovative solutions in highly regulated environments, all while enjoying the benefits of a global firm that values your contributions and well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Relocate to Australia: Associate Director - Project Architect (NSQEP) in Plymouth
✨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 AECOM 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 Relocate to Australia: Associate Director - Project Architect (NSQEP) in Plymouth
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 AECOM!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to express your passion for architecture and what drew you to AECOM. 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 AECOM
✨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 AECOM.
