Associate director – architecture (nsqep)

Come and grow with us. Our global portfolio of work comprises the design of iconic and award-winning buildings and landscapes. From strategic planning through to project realisation, the connections we make among people and place provide sustainable outcomes for our clients and the communities we serve. We place a premium on investing in digital capabilities and innovations which bring a unique consistency and efficiency to our scalable work. Together with our clients, we are working to evolve and elevate the built environment across sectors including social infrastructure, transit, technology and logistics, and commercial and corporate real estate, while focusing on solutions that promote long term health and wellbeing for all.

As an Associate Director – Architecture (NSQEP), you will provide architectural leadership on complex defence, research and nuclear infrastructure projects. Combining strong design capability with experience in highly regulated environments, you will lead multidisciplinary teams in the planning, design and delivery of facilities that prioritise safety and operational performance. You will play a key role in shaping design strategy, guiding project teams and ensuring architectural outcomes align with nuclear safety requirements, Defence standards and international best practice. This role is based in Adelaide. Suitably qualified candidates will be considered for relocation.

• Lead the architectural design and delivery of complex defence, research and nuclear infrastructure projects.
• Provide design leadership across multidisciplinary teams, ensuring high-quality and coordinated project outcomes.
• Oversee architectural outputs that support nuclear safety requirements, regulatory approvals and project governance.
• Act as a trusted advisor to clients, stakeholders and project partners throughout all phases of project delivery.
• Guide the development of innovative, practical and resilient design solutions across complex building typologies.
• Mentor and develop architecture team members while fostering a collaborative and high-performing culture.
• Support business growth through client engagement, technical leadership and the delivery of exceptional project outcomes.

The following qualifications and experience are highly desired, but if you don't tick all the boxes, you could still be a perfect fit for this role. Please apply, all applications will be considered.

• Accredited degree in Architecture with current registration as an Architect in Australia, or the ability to obtain registration.
• Ideally, 10–15 years' experience in architecture, including leadership roles on complex defence, research, healthcare, laboratory or safety-critical projects.
• Demonstrated experience delivering projects within highly regulated environments, with exposure to nuclear or defence sectors highly regarded.
• Strong understanding of nuclear safety frameworks, Defence design requirements and government project delivery standards.
• Experience leading architectural teams and managing multidisciplinary project delivery.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management and client relationship skills.
• Chartered status, professional membership or relevant postgraduate qualifications will be highly regarded.

Given the nature of our projects, Australian Citizenship (or AUKUS Clearance) is required.

• Flexible work arrangements, including alternative start/finish times, part-time, job-sharing and hybrid work options
• Purchase up to 6 weeks additional annual leave per year
• Flex public holidays – swap Easter or other holidays for ones that suit you better
• Continuous learning and growth - lunch and learns, professional development courses, financial study assistance, 5 days paid study leave, global career opportunities

We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, additional health or mental health needs, and/or neurodiverse conditions. If you require any adjustments during the hiring process, please let us know.

Applications are reviewed as they come in, and the role may close earlier than expected, so if this opportunity sounds like you, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

All newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.

AECOM acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands on which we, our clients and our communities live and work around Australia. We pay our respects to their cultures and to their Elders — past, present, and emerging. We are committed to connecting to Country in our work through meaningful engagement with First Nations peoples and businesses. Find out more about our Australian Reconciliation Action Plan here: https://aecom.com/au/our-vision-for-reconciliation/.

ReqID: J10153005

Business Line: B&P - Buildings & Places

Business Group: DCS

Strategic Business Unit: ANZ

Career Area: Design

Work Location Model: Hybrid