How to apply for Technical Director / Associate Director: Ground Engineering

About AECOM

AECOM is a global infrastructure leader that delivers sustainable legacies through innovative engineering and environmental solutions. The Ground Engineering Practice works on iconic UK projects like the Great Grid Upgrade, STEP Fusion, and Snowdonia VIP, offering unparalleled exposure to diverse sectors. With a remote-first approach and a commitment to high-performing teams, AECOM provides a flexible and impactful work environment.

About the role

As a Technical Director or Associate Director in Ground Engineering, you will lead the delivery of geotechnical services across energy, water, nuclear, defence, aviation, ports, data centres, highways, and rail. You will oversee feasibility studies, ground investigation, detailed design, and construction supervision, while driving business growth and mentoring teams. This role is pivotal in expanding AECOM's nationwide presence and delivering sustainable infrastructure solutions.

A typical day

A typical day might involve leading a virtual team meeting to review geotechnical designs for a nuclear decommissioning project, followed by a client call with National Grid to discuss the Great Grid Upgrade. You could also mentor junior engineers, review bid documents for a water utility scheme, and ensure project deliverables meet AECOM's quality and sustainability standards.

Who AECOM is looking for

• Chartered Engineer (CEng) with extensive experience in geotechnical design and project delivery across multiple sectors such as energy, nuclear, or major infrastructure.
• Proven track record of leading multidisciplinary teams and managing client relationships with key stakeholders like National Grid, Sellafield, or Network Rail.
• Strong technical expertise in ground investigation, interpretation, and detailed design, with familiarity with UK standards and contracts.
• Demonstrated ability to win work and contribute to business development, including bid preparation and client engagement.

Tips for this application

• Highlight your experience with AECOM's key clients (e.g., National Grid, BP, Sellafield) and projects (e.g., Great Grid Upgrade, STEP Fusion) in your CV and cover letter.
• Emphasize your ability to lead remote teams and work across UK locations, as the role is remote and nationwide.
• Showcase your expertise in at least two of AECOM's end markets (e.g., nuclear, energy, highways) to demonstrate versatility.
• Quantify your business development impact, such as revenue generated or successful bids won, to stand out.
• Mention any experience with sustainable geotechnical solutions, aligning with AECOM's focus on sustainable legacies.

What to cover in your cover letter

['Your leadership experience in ground engineering, particularly in managing large-scale projects and multidisciplinary teams.', 'Specific examples of successful client relationships and business development wins with key clients like National Grid or Sellafield.', 'Your technical proficiency in geotechnical design and construction supervision, referencing relevant UK standards and projects.', "Your motivation to contribute to AECOM's growth and sustainable infrastructure goals, with a clear fit for the remote, nationwide role."]

Research before applying

• Study AECOM's Ground Engineering Practice pages and recent project announcements, especially the Great Grid Upgrade, STEP Fusion, and Snowdonia VIP.
• Research AECOM's key clients (e.g., National Grid, Sellafield, Network Rail) and their upcoming projects to understand potential opportunities.
• Explore AECOM's sustainability initiatives and how ground engineering contributes to their sustainable legacies mission.
• Review the backgrounds of AECOM's leadership in Ground Engineering to understand their strategic priorities and team structure.

Likely interview topics

Based on the job description, expect questions about:

• How would you approach leading a geotechnical team on a complex project like the Great Grid Upgrade or STEP Fusion?
• Describe your experience with ground investigation and interpretation for nuclear or energy projects, and how you ensure safety and quality.
• What strategies would you use to win new business and expand AECOM's Ground Engineering Practice in your region?
• How do you manage client relationships with stakeholders like National Highways or Transport Scotland to ensure project success?
• Give an example of a challenging geotechnical problem you solved and how you applied innovative or sustainable solutions.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Failing to demonstrate specific experience with AECOM's key clients or projects, which shows a lack of tailored research.
• Overlooking the remote aspect and not highlighting your ability to lead and collaborate effectively across distributed teams.
• Not articulating a clear vision for business development or leadership, as the role requires driving growth and inspiring teams.