Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Architectural Designer, Data Centers - Remote (U.S.)

at AECOM

🏢 About AECOM

AECOM is a global leader in infrastructure consulting, committed to delivering sustainable and innovative solutions. Working here means being part of a team that shapes the built environment on a massive scale, with a strong focus on data center design that supports the digital backbone of society.

About This Role

As a Senior Architectural Designer for Data Centers, you will lead the architectural design of hyperscale and colocation projects from concept to construction. Your work directly impacts the efficiency, scalability, and reliability of critical digital infrastructure, making you a key player in AECOM's mission to build a better world.

💡 A Day in the Life

Your day might start with a virtual coordination meeting with structural and MEP engineers to resolve design conflicts. You'll then dive into Revit to refine a data hall layout, followed by a client call to discuss design guidelines. Later, you'll review a contractor's submittal and prepare conceptual sketches for a new proposal.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who AECOM Is Looking For

  • A licensed architect with extensive experience designing hyperscale cloud data centers and colocation facilities, demonstrating deep technical expertise in mission-critical environments.
  • A proven leader who has successfully managed complex projects from concept through commissioning, coordinating with multiple disciplines and stakeholders.
  • An expert in building codes, industry standards (e.g., TIA-942, Uptime Institute), and client-specific design guidelines, ensuring compliance and operational excellence.
  • A collaborative professional skilled in business development, able to contribute to proposals and conceptual designs for new client pursuits.

📝 Tips for Applying to AECOM

1

Highlight specific hyperscale data center projects you've led, detailing your role in design and coordination from concept to commissioning.

2

Showcase your licensure and any certifications (e.g., LEED, Uptime Institute Accredited Tier Designer) prominently in your resume.

3

Tailor your portfolio to include examples of fully coordinated design solutions that involved engineering, construction, and client teams.

4

In your cover letter, mention your experience with remote collaboration tools and working across time zones, as this role is remote.

5

Research AECOM's recent data center projects and mention how your expertise aligns with their approach to sustainability and innovation.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Emphasize your deep expertise in hyperscale and colocation data center design, including specific project examples.', 'Highlight your leadership in coordinating multidisciplinary teams and managing complex, mission-critical projects.', "Express enthusiasm for AECOM's focus on sustainable legacies and how your work contributes to that vision.", "Mention your ability to assist with business development and conceptual design, showing you're a strategic partner."]

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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, focusing on sustainability and innovation.
  • → Understand AECOM's global presence and how this remote role fits into their broader team structure.
  • → Familiarize yourself with AECOM's commitment to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and how data centers align with that.
  • → Look into AECOM's culture and employee reviews on sites like Glassdoor to understand remote work expectations.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you resolved a major design conflict between architectural and engineering requirements in a data center project.
2 How do you ensure your designs meet both client operational needs and regulatory codes?
3 Walk us through your process for coordinating with contractors and permitting authorities during construction administration.
4 How do you stay current with evolving data center technologies and standards?
5 Tell us about a proposal or business development effort you contributed to and its outcome.
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't submit a generic application; failing to mention specific data center experience is a deal-breaker.
  • Avoid downplaying the importance of licensure—it's a strict requirement, not a preference.
  • Don't ignore the business development aspect; show you're willing to contribute to winning new work.

📅 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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