Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Architect (Licensed Building Architect), Data Centers - Remote (U.S.)

at AECOM

🏢 About AECOM

AECOM is a global leader in infrastructure and environmental solutions, committed to delivering a better world through innovative and sustainable design. Their focus on data centers aligns with the rapid digital transformation, making them a key player in building the backbone of the cloud. Working here means contributing to projects that have a tangible impact on global connectivity and sustainability.

About This Role

As a Senior Architect for Data Centers at AECOM, you will lead the architectural design of hyperscale and colocation projects from concept through construction administration. This role is pivotal in shaping the physical infrastructure that powers the digital economy, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated, code-compliant, and efficient solutions. Your work will directly support the growth of cloud services and data-driven innovation.

💡 A Day in the Life

Your typical day might start with a virtual stand-up with your project team to review progress on a hyperscale data center design. You'll then review and mark up Revit drawings for code compliance, followed by a coordination call with MEP engineers to resolve spatial conflicts. After lunch, you might mentor a junior architect on a colocation project and end the day by preparing conceptual designs for a client proposal.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who AECOM Is Looking For

  • Licensed architect with 10+ years of experience specifically in data center design, including hyperscale and colocation projects.
  • Proven ability to lead complex, mission-critical projects from concept to commissioning, with a strong portfolio of completed data centers.
  • Deep knowledge of building codes, industry standards (e.g., TIA-942, Uptime Institute), and client design guidelines (e.g., AWS, Google, Microsoft).
  • Experience mentoring junior staff and contributing to business development through proposals and client presentations.

📝 Tips for Applying to AECOM

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific data center projects you led, including project scale (MW, sq ft), hyperscale vs. colocation, and your role from concept to commissioning.

2

In your cover letter, mention familiarity with AECOM's sustainability goals and how your designs incorporate energy efficiency and renewable energy integration.

3

Quantify your experience: e.g., 'Led design of 50MW hyperscale data center for a major cloud provider' rather than just listing responsibilities.

4

Showcase your leadership in multidisciplinary collaboration by describing how you coordinated with MEP, structural, and civil engineers on complex data center projects.

5

If you have experience with BIM 360 or Revit for data center design, mention it explicitly as AECOM uses advanced digital tools.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Emphasize your track record of delivering hyperscale and colocation data centers on time and within budget, highlighting specific project examples.', "Demonstrate your understanding of AECOM's commitment to sustainability by linking your design choices to reduced PUE and embodied carbon.", 'Highlight your ability to mentor junior architects and foster a collaborative team environment, as this role includes mentoring responsibilities.', 'Express enthusiasm for remote work and your ability to manage multiple projects across different time zones effectively.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review AECOM's recent data center projects and case studies on their website to understand their design philosophy and client base.
  • → Research AECOM's sustainability initiatives and how they measure success (e.g., net-zero goals, LEED certifications).
  • → Familiarize yourself with the company's digital delivery tools, such as BIM 360, and how they use data-driven design.
  • → Look up AECOM's thought leadership articles on data center trends, such as edge computing or liquid cooling.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk me through a hyperscale data center project you led from concept to commissioning. What were the biggest challenges and how did you overcome them?
2 How do you ensure compliance with client design guidelines (e.g., AWS, Google) while maintaining design innovation?
3 Describe a time you had to coordinate with MEP engineers to resolve a conflict between architectural and mechanical requirements.
4 How do you approach mentoring junior architects while managing tight project deadlines?
5 What is your experience with sustainable design strategies for data centers, such as free cooling or renewable energy integration?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic resume or cover letter that doesn't specifically address data center experience or this role's requirements.
  • Failing to demonstrate leadership in project delivery—avoid vague descriptions; be specific about your role and outcomes.
  • Not showing familiarity with the unique challenges of remote work in a collaborative design environment, such as virtual coordination tools.

📅 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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