Application Guide
How to Apply for Senior Architect (Licensed Building Architect), Data Centers - Remote (U.S.)
at AECOM
🏢 About AECOM
AECOM is a global infrastructure leader with a dedicated data center consulting practice spanning the Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia. The firm is known for delivering sustainable, innovative solutions on high-profile, fast-paced projects for top-tier cloud and colocation clients. Working here means shaping the future of mission-critical facilities while collaborating with international teams on cutting-edge hyperscale designs.
About This Role
As a Senior Architect (Licensed Building Architect) for Data Centers, you will lead the architectural design and delivery of large-scale hyperscale and colocation data center projects from concept through commissioning. This remote role is client-facing and hands-on, requiring deep technical expertise in mission-critical facilities and the ability to manage complex projects across global teams. You will directly influence the performance, security, and scalability of data center environments for major cloud and colocation clients.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve leading a virtual design review with the project team, coordinating with MEP engineers on system integration, and meeting with a hyperscale client to discuss progress and upcoming milestones. You could also be reviewing construction submittals, resolving field issues, or planning your next onsite visit for commissioning. The role balances hands-on technical work with client-facing communication and global team collaboration.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who AECOM Is Looking For
- A licensed architect with extensive experience leading the design of hyperscale cloud and colocation data centers, including white space, power, cooling, and security infrastructure.
- Proven track record managing mission-critical projects from concept to commissioning, with a strong understanding of Tier III/IV standards, redundancy, and scalability requirements.
- Adept at coordinating multidisciplinary teams (MEP, structural, civil) and engaging directly with clients to translate business needs into technical solutions.
- Comfortable working remotely with occasional travel, and experienced in collaborating with global teams across time zones.
📝 Tips for Applying to AECOM
Highlight specific data center projects you have led, including scale (e.g., MW capacity, square footage), client type (hyperscale vs. colocation), and your role from concept to commissioning.
Emphasize your architectural license and any additional certifications relevant to mission-critical facilities (e.g., Uptime Institute ATD, LEED AP).
Showcase experience with remote collaboration tools and global team coordination, as AECOM values seamless virtual teamwork across continents.
Tailor your resume to include keywords from the job description such as 'hyperscale,' 'colocation,' 'mission critical,' and 'commissioning' to pass ATS and demonstrate fit.
In your cover letter, explicitly state your willingness to travel occasionally and your ability to work remotely, aligning with the role's flexibility requirements.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Your hands-on experience leading hyperscale and colocation data center projects from start to finish, with quantifiable results.', 'How you have successfully managed client relationships and multidisciplinary teams in a remote or distributed environment.', "Your understanding of AECOM's global data center practice and how your background can contribute to their high-profile projects.", 'Your motivation for joining AECOM specifically, referencing their reputation in sustainable infrastructure and mission-critical facilities.']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Explore AECOM's data center practice and recent projects, particularly any hyperscale or colocation work, to understand their client base and technical focus.
- → Review AECOM's sustainability initiatives and how they apply to mission-critical facilities, as the company emphasizes sustainable legacies.
- → Investigate the latest trends in data center architecture, such as high-density computing, renewable energy integration, and modular construction, to speak knowledgeably in interviews.
- → Look up the backgrounds of AECOM's data center leadership and any published thought leadership to align your application with their strategic priorities.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Focusing only on general architectural experience without highlighting specific data center projects, as this role requires deep mission-critical expertise.
- Underestimating the importance of commissioning experience; many candidates emphasize design but neglect to show they can see projects through to operational handover.
- Failing to demonstrate remote work capability or flexibility for travel, which are key aspects of this position.
📅 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:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!