Application Guide

How to Apply for Landscape Architect

at AECOM

🏢 About AECOM

AECOM is a global leader in infrastructure and environmental solutions, known for delivering innovative projects that shape sustainable communities. Their commitment to 'building sustainable legacies' means you'll work on impactful, large-scale schemes that prioritize environmental and social responsibility. With a strong presence in the UK, they offer a collaborative culture and opportunities to grow within a diverse, multidisciplinary team.

About This Role

As a Landscape Architect at AECOM, you'll lead the design and delivery of landscape projects from feasibility through construction, contributing to public realm and complex multi-disciplinary schemes. Your work will directly influence the quality of urban spaces and natural environments, while you support project management and represent AECOM's design vision in client meetings. This role is ideal for someone seeking chartered status (CMLI) and wanting to make a tangible impact on the UK's built environment.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with a team catch-up to review project milestones, followed by design development work in CAD or BIM, collaborating with engineers on a multi-disciplinary scheme. You could then attend a client meeting to present concepts, and later assist with project financials or prepare a planning application. The role balances creative design with technical delivery, offering variety and hands-on involvement from concept to construction.

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🎯 Who AECOM Is Looking For

  • A graduate with at least two years' post-qualification experience, actively working towards Chartered Membership of the Landscape Institute (CMLI).
  • Proven experience in designing public realm schemes and collaborating on complex multi-disciplinary projects, demonstrating strong technical and creative skills.
  • Solid understanding of the UK planning system and its application to landscape architecture projects.
  • Proficient in project management, including financial control, reporting, and programme management, with the ability to assist leads effectively.

📝 Tips for Applying to AECOM

1

Tailor your portfolio to highlight public realm and multi-disciplinary projects, emphasizing your role and the impact of your designs.

2

Explicitly mention your progress toward CMLI status and any steps you've taken (e.g., P2C sessions, mentoring) to show commitment.

3

Demonstrate knowledge of AECOM's recent landscape projects in the UK, such as work on HS2 or urban regeneration schemes, in your cover letter.

4

Use specific examples of how you've managed project finances or programmes, even if on a small scale, to meet their project management requirement.

5

Address the UK planning system directly: mention experience with planning applications, public consultations, or compliance with local policies.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your passion for sustainable design and how it aligns with AECOM's mission to build sustainable legacies.", "Specific examples of public realm or multi-disciplinary projects you've contributed to, detailing your design and delivery process.", "Your active pursuit of CMLI and how AECOM's support for professional development will help you achieve this goal.", 'Your project management skills, with concrete examples of financial control or programme management from previous roles.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review AECOM's recent UK landscape projects, such as the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park or the Garden Bridge, to understand their design ethos.
  • → Learn about AECOM's sustainability initiatives and how they integrate environmental solutions into landscape architecture.
  • → Check the company's approach to professional development, especially support for CMLI, and mention it in your application.
  • → Familiarize yourself with AECOM's global reach and how the UK office collaborates internationally on large-scale projects.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a complex multi-disciplinary project you worked on. How did you collaborate with engineers, planners, or other disciplines?
2 How do you approach designing a public realm scheme that balances aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability?
3 What is your experience with the UK planning system? Can you walk us through a project where you navigated planning regulations?
4 How do you manage project finances and timelines? Give an example of a time you had to adjust a programme or budget.
5 Why AECOM? What specific projects or values of the company attract you, and how do you see yourself contributing?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic portfolio without focusing on public realm or multi-disciplinary work, which is key for this role.
  • Failing to mention your CMLI progress; even if not chartered, show active steps toward it.
  • Ignoring the project management aspect; even if you're early in your career, highlight any relevant experience with budgets or schedules.

📅 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!

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