Application Guide
How to Apply for Senior Urban Planner
at AECOM
🏢 About AECOM
AECOM is a global infrastructure consulting firm known for delivering sustainable solutions that address complex challenges. Working here means contributing to landmark projects like airports and energy systems, with a strong emphasis on innovation and environmental stewardship.
About This Role
This Senior Urban Planner role involves leading planning projects for major infrastructure, including transport and energy developments. You will prepare high-quality reports, conduct due diligence, and mentor junior staff, directly shaping sustainable communities.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might start with a team stand-up to review project milestones, then shift to drafting a due diligence report for a renewable energy project. Afternoon could involve a client call to discuss approval timelines, followed by mentoring a junior planner on a transport assessment.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who AECOM Is Looking For
- Has 5+ years of urban planning experience, specifically on large-scale infrastructure projects (e.g., transport, energy, airports).
- Expert in preparing planning reports, due diligence assessments, and approval documentation for complex developments.
- Demonstrates leadership in managing projects and mentoring junior planners, with strong collaboration skills in multidisciplinary teams.
- Proven client-facing experience and ability to support business development, including writing proposals and building client relationships.
📝 Tips for Applying to AECOM
Tailor your resume to highlight specific infrastructure projects you've led, especially transport or energy, with measurable outcomes.
In your cover letter, explicitly connect your experience with AECOM's focus on sustainable legacies and innovative solutions.
Research AECOM's recent projects in Australia (e.g., Western Sydney Airport) and mention how your skills align with those initiatives.
Use keywords from the job description like 'due diligence', 'approval documentation', and 'multidisciplinary teams' in your application.
Prepare a portfolio of planning documents you've authored (reports, assessments) to showcase your technical writing skills.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Emphasize your experience leading planning for major infrastructure projects, particularly transport or energy.', 'Highlight your ability to navigate complex approval processes and produce high-quality documentation.', 'Showcase your collaborative approach and experience mentoring junior planners in multidisciplinary settings.', "Express enthusiasm for contributing to sustainable infrastructure and AECOM's legacy of innovation."]
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Review AECOM's 'Sustainable Legacies' report to understand their approach to environmental and social impact.
- → Look up their major Australian projects, especially in transport (e.g., Sydney Metro) and energy (e.g., renewable energy farms).
- → Check AECOM's career page for their values and culture, particularly around innovation and inclusion.
- → Read recent news about AECOM's involvement in Australia's infrastructure boom, such as the Inland Rail or airport expansions.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Sending a generic cover letter that doesn't mention AECOM or specific project types (transport/energy).
- Focusing only on local government planning experience without highlighting large-scale infrastructure work.
- Failing to demonstrate leadership or mentoring experience, which is critical for a senior 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:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!