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, known for delivering innovative and sustainable solutions across data centers, transportation, and environmental projects. Working here offers the opportunity to impact large-scale, mission-critical facilities while collaborating with top-tier engineers and architects in a remote-friendly culture.

About This Role

As a Senior Architectural Designer, you'll lead the architectural design of hyperscale data centers from concept through construction, ensuring operational efficiency and scalability. This role is impactful because you'll shape the physical backbone of cloud computing, working on projects that power global digital infrastructure.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with a virtual coordination meeting with MEP engineers to resolve a clash in Revit, followed by reviewing submittals from a contractor. After lunch, you'd lead a design review with the client to present options for cooling system integration, then wrap up by mentoring a junior architect on code compliance for fire-rated assemblies.

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🎯 Who AECOM Is Looking For

  • A licensed architect with 8+ years of experience, specifically in leading design for hyperscale cloud or colocation data centers.
  • Deep expertise in data center design standards (e.g., Uptime Institute, TIA-942), building codes, and client-specific guidelines.
  • Proven ability to coordinate with MEP, structural, and civil engineers to deliver fully integrated designs.
  • Experience mentoring junior staff and contributing to business development through proposals and client presentations.

📝 Tips for Applying to AECOM

1

Tailor your portfolio to highlight 2-3 hyperscale data center projects you led, emphasizing your role from schematic design through construction administration.

2

In your resume, explicitly list the data center types (e.g., AWS, Azure, colocation) and codes you've worked with, such as IBC, NFPA, and local amendments.

3

Mention any experience with BIM 360, Revit, or other collaboration tools used for remote coordination across disciplines.

4

Include a brief note in your cover letter about your familiarity with AECOM's sustainability initiatives and how your designs incorporate energy efficiency.

5

Research AECOM's recent data center projects (e.g., for major tech clients) and reference them to show genuine interest.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Highlight your leadership in delivering complex data center projects on time and within budget, with specific examples of challenges overcome.', 'Emphasize your collaborative approach with engineering teams and external stakeholders to achieve fully coordinated designs.', 'Mention your experience with construction administration, including RFI responses, submittal reviews, and field observations.', 'Express enthusiasm for mentoring junior architects and supporting business development through technical expertise.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review AECOM's portfolio of data center projects, especially those for major cloud providers, to understand their design approach and client base.
  • → Read AECOM's sustainability reports and see how they incorporate ESG goals into infrastructure projects.
  • → Check recent news about AECOM's data center practice, such as new contracts or partnerships.
  • → Familiarize yourself with AECOM's organizational structure and the role of the Architecture business line within the company.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk me through your design process for a hyperscale data center, from initial programming to construction documentation.
2 How do you ensure your designs meet both client operational requirements and local building codes?
3 Describe a time you had to resolve a design conflict between architectural and MEP systems. How did you coordinate?
4 What tools and methods do you use for remote collaboration with a distributed team?
5 How do you stay current with evolving data center technologies (e.g., liquid cooling, modular construction)?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Applying with a generic resume that doesn't highlight data center-specific experience or licensed architect status.
  • Failing to demonstrate knowledge of remote collaboration tools and processes, as this role is fully remote.
  • Overlooking the importance of construction administration experience—many candidates focus only on design phase.

📅 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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