Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Town Planner

at AECOM

🏢 About AECOM

AECOM is a global infrastructure consulting firm that designs and delivers sustainable solutions for communities and governments. They are a market leader in UK infrastructure development with experience in over 80 Development Consent Orders (DCOs), making them a key player in major projects like solar, carbon capture, and transportation. Working here offers the chance to contribute to projects that shape the future of energy and infrastructure.

About This Role

As a Senior Town Planner, you will lead planning applications and DCOs for major infrastructure projects across sectors like energy, rail, and water. You will manage project teams, engage with stakeholders, and ensure compliance with planning policies. Your work will directly impact the successful delivery of projects that support the UK's energy transition and sustainable development.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve leading a project team meeting to discuss progress on a solar DCO, reviewing planning documents, and liaising with the client's legal team. You could also be attending a site visit with stakeholders or preparing a presentation for a public consultation. In the afternoon, you might be drafting a section of the planning statement or reviewing environmental reports to ensure they meet policy requirements.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who AECOM Is Looking For

  • Chartered member of the RTPI (or equivalent) with significant post-chartership experience in town planning, specifically within infrastructure or major projects.
  • Demonstrated experience in project management, including coordinating multidisciplinary teams and managing budgets and timelines for large-scale planning applications or DCOs.
  • Excellent knowledge of the UK planning system, including the Planning Act 2008 for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects, and familiarity with environmental impact assessment (EIA) processes.
  • Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to build relationships with clients, local authorities, and the public.

📝 Tips for Applying to AECOM

1

Highlight any experience you have with DCOs specifically, as AECOM is heavily involved in them. Even if you've only contributed to parts of a DCO, emphasize your familiarity with the process.

2

Tailor your CV to showcase your involvement in projects within the energy, rail, or water sectors, as these are the main areas of work mentioned in the job description.

3

Demonstrate your project management capabilities with concrete examples, such as leading a planning application from scoping to submission, and mention any tools or methodologies you use.

4

Since the role offers flexible locations, mention your preferred base or willingness to work from any of the listed offices, and highlight your ability to work effectively in a hybrid setup.

5

Research AECOM's recent projects and wins (e.g., solar DCOs) and mention them in your application to show your genuine interest and knowledge.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Highlight your experience with large-scale infrastructure projects and your understanding of the DCO process, aligning with AECOM's market leadership in this area.", 'Emphasize your ability to work in multidisciplinary teams and your collaborative approach, as AECOM values teamwork and integrated solutions.', "Mention your passion for sustainability and how your work has contributed to sustainable development, echoing AECOM's mission of building sustainable legacies.", 'Showcase your adaptability to work on a variety of projects across different sectors, as the role offers a diverse portfolio.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review AECOM's recent press releases and project announcements to understand their current pipeline and flagship projects.
  • → Read about AECOM's sustainability initiatives and their 'Sustainable Legacies' strategy to align your values with theirs.
  • → Look into the specific DCO projects AECOM has been involved in, such as solar or carbon capture, to gain insight into their approach.
  • → Check the RTPI website for any recent planning reforms or consultations that might affect infrastructure planning, as AECOM would be at the forefront.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you managed a complex planning application. What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?
2 How would you approach stakeholder engagement for a controversial infrastructure project like a solar farm?
3 Discuss a recent change in UK planning policy that could impact AECOM's projects and how you would adapt.
4 Given AECOM's focus on sustainability, how do you balance development needs with environmental protection in your planning decisions?
5 Tell us about your experience with EIA. How do you ensure compliance and quality in the assessment process?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't submit a generic cover letter. Make sure it specifically mentions AECOM and the sectors they work in.
  • Avoid focusing only on your technical planning skills; highlight your project management and leadership abilities as well.
  • Don't neglect to mention your flexibility regarding location and hybrid working, as this is a key aspect of the role.

📅 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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