Application Guide

How to Apply for Digital Solutions Software Developer III

at AECOM

🏢 About AECOM

AECOM is a global infrastructure consulting firm that stands out for its commitment to building sustainable legacies through innovative engineering and environmental solutions. Working at AECOM means contributing to tangible projects that shape communities and address critical infrastructure challenges, particularly in the South African context where development needs are significant.

About This Role

As a Digital Solutions Software Developer III at AECOM South Africa, you'll design and develop web/desktop applications that support infrastructure and environmental projects, working within Agile/Scrum teams alongside construction engineers and designers. This role is impactful because you'll create digital tools that directly enable sustainable infrastructure development across Africa.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day involves participating in morning stand-ups with cross-skilled teams including construction engineers, developing or modifying application modules using Agile methodologies, conducting code reviews with fellow developers, and potentially providing technical support for existing infrastructure applications. You might spend afternoons researching new technologies or collaborating with external teams on co-developed products.

🎯 Who AECOM Is Looking For

  • Has 3-5 years of experience developing full-stack applications with demonstrated ability to work in cross-functional teams with non-technical stakeholders like construction engineers
  • Possesses practical experience with Agile/Scrum methodologies in a product development environment, not just theoretical knowledge
  • Has hands-on database development experience (likely SQL Server or PostgreSQL given infrastructure applications) and can demonstrate maintaining production databases
  • Shows proactive interest in researching and implementing new technologies that could improve infrastructure project delivery

📝 Tips for Applying to AECOM

1

Highlight specific experience developing applications for engineering, construction, or environmental sectors - AECOM values domain knowledge

2

Quantify your Agile/Scrum experience with metrics (e.g., 'participated in 15+ sprints, improved velocity by 20%') rather than just listing methodologies

3

Include examples of collaborating with non-technical teams - this is explicitly mentioned in the job description

4

Demonstrate your technical support experience by mentioning specific applications you've maintained and improved

5

Research AECOM's current digital initiatives in South Africa and reference how your skills align with their infrastructure technology needs

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your experience developing applications that solve real-world engineering or infrastructure problems', 'Specific examples of successful collaboration in cross-skilled teams with engineers/designers', "How you've researched and implemented new technologies in previous roles to improve solutions", "Your understanding of AECOM's sustainability mission and how your development work contributes to it"]

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • AECOM's current infrastructure projects in South Africa and Africa region
  • AECOM's digital transformation initiatives and technology stack mentioned in recent press releases
  • The specific challenges of infrastructure development in South African context
  • AECOM's sustainability goals and how digital solutions support them

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you developed an application module that had to meet strict quality and usability criteria for non-technical users
2 How have you handled technical support for a critical application while continuing development work?
3 Walk through your experience collaborating with external development teams on co-developed products
4 What new technologies have you researched recently and how would they apply to infrastructure solutions?
5 How do you ensure database performance and maintenance while developing new application features?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Focusing only on technical skills without demonstrating ability to work with construction/engineering teams
  • Generic application that doesn't address AECOM's infrastructure focus or sustainability mission
  • Listing Agile/Scrum experience without concrete examples of your role in sprints or ceremonies

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to AECOM!