Associate Principal, Senior Urban Planner - job 1 of 2

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AECOM is actively seeking an Associate Principal, Senior Urban Planner to support our Federal practice. For this role, AECOM offers the freedom and flexibility to work on our hybrid schedule being a combination of in office time and remote work. This leader will have a broad sphere of influence throughout the West Region, with our preference to have this leader seated in Orange or Los Angeles, CA offices.

Associate Principal, Senior Urban Planner

AECOM's Urban Planning Group and Federal Planning Group form a powerhouse of expertise dedicated to shaping both the local and national landscapes. With our Urban Planning team, we bring together a group of specialists committed to creating vibrant, sustainable urban environments. From crafting comprehensive master plans to designing transit-oriented developments, we prioritize livability, resilience, and economic vitality to shape the future of cities and communities worldwide.

In parallel, our Federal Planning Group focuses on providing strategic planning and advisory services to federal agencies across various sectors. We specialize in navigating complex regulatory frameworks, ensuring compliance, efficiency, and stakeholder engagement. Whether it's infrastructure development, environmental planning, or military installations, our team leverages its technical expertise and understanding of federal requirements to deliver mission-critical projects on time and within budget. Together, we support agencies in achieving their objectives and serving the public interest, ensuring a sustainable future for all.

Job Overview:

As an Associate Principal, Federal Urban Planner at AECOM, you will play a crucial role in planning and developing projects for various federal agencies. You will be responsible for providing expertise in urban planning principles, regulations, and best practices to ensure that projects align with federal guidelines and objectives. This role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams.

Core Responsibilities:

Lead Business Development Initiatives:

• Spearhead the identification, pursuit, and acquisition of new projects in alignment with the company's strategic objectives.

• Cultivate and nurture relationships with existing and potential clients, understanding their needs and delivering tailored solutions.

• Collaborate with the leadership team to develop and execute comprehensive business development strategies, ensuring sustainable growth and market expansion.

Client-Centric Leadership:

• Champion a client-centric approach across all project phases, prioritizing client satisfaction, and fostering long-term partnerships.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, addressing inquiries, resolving issues, and proactively anticipating future needs.

• Lead by example, instilling a culture of exceptional service delivery and client engagement within the team.

Urban Planning and Project Development:

• Utilize expertise in urban planning principles, regulations, and best practices to conceptualize and develop innovative solutions for federal projects.

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to formulate and appraise plans and standards, ensuring alignment with federal guidelines and objectives.

• Assess the feasibility and soundness of proposed planning products, providing strategic insights to optimize project outcomes.

Technical Advisory and Compliance Oversight:

• Serve as a trusted advisor and consultant on technical specialties related to urban planning, offering guidance on facility types, federal standards, and program functions.

• Monitor and ensure compliance with federal guidance governing installation planning activities, mitigating risks and ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements.

Collaborative Leadership and Continuous Improvement:

• Partner with Principal Planning leaders on all planning-related matters, leveraging expertise and experience to drive operational excellence.

• Evaluate the operations and activities of assigned responsibilities, identifying areas for improvement and recommending modifications as needed to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

Minimum Requirements

• 8 years of experience + Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning / Landscape Architecture /  Architecture or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education

• Due to the nature of the work in this role, US citizenship is a requirement for this position

Preferred Requirements

• 15+ years of experience with master planning /site planning products for military installations or other federal agencies

• Strong understanding of US Military culture

• Strong workshop facilitation skills

• Ability to travel

• AICP certification strongly preferred

• Knowledge of federal planning regulations, including NEPA, Section 106, and other relevant statutes.

• Proficiency in GIS software, CAD tools, and other urban planning technologies.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think critically and creatively.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

• Experience managing multiple projects simultaneously and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Familiarity with sustainability principles, smart growth strategies, and resilient design concepts is are among strongly preferred suite of skills.

• Relocation support within the domestic United States is available for this role

• Sponsorship is not available now or in the future for this role

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2024. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community—where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.