Associate, Architecture

Company Description

At AECOM, we’re delivering a better world.

It’s one thing to imagine a better world — but with AECOM, you’re part of the solution to deliver a better world. Our Sustainable Legacies strategy guides us in embedding sustainability and resilience in every aspect of our work, improving social outcomes for our clients and communities, and fostering a culture of inclusion, belonging and respect.

You’ll be joining a global team of over 50,000 professionals — planners, designers, engineers, scientists, consultants, program and construction managers — across geographies, including APAC such as China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand.

You will work on some of the most complex projects in the region — from bridges and rail lines that improve our daily commute, to water infrastructure and river restorations that provide clean water for all, and nature-positive developments that safeguard our people and our planet.

Join us in delivering a sustainable and equitable future.

Job Description

AECOM is seeking a visionary and innovative Associate, Architecture to join our dynamic team in Shanghai, China. As a key member of our architectural studio, you will spearhead the design and execution of medium to large-scale projects, collaborating with cross-functional teams and clients to deliver exceptional architectural solutions that push the boundaries of creativity and functionality.

What you’ll do

• Lead and manage architectural design projects, including project planning, scheduling, budgeting, and resource allocation, ensuring timely and successful delivery upon management approval.
• Assist the Design Director or Project Manager in organizing and coordinating the design team to develop and deliver high-quality architectural concepts and design solutions.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior architects and designers, ensuring design quality, compliance, and consistency across project deliverables.
• Prepare and oversee the development of design presentations, reports, and client submission materials throughout all project stages.
• Support clients during project initiation, approvals, and permitting processes, and serve as a key liaison with relevant government authorities and external stakeholders.
• Lead the design development process and ensure seamless transition from concept design through schematic design, design development, and project delivery.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary teams, consultants, and external partners to ensure successful project execution.
• Undertake other duties and responsibilities as assigned by management.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree or above in Architecture or a related discipline.
• Master's degree in Architecture is preferred.

Experience

• Minimum 8 years of professional experience in architectural design, preferably with leading Grade-A Design Institutes, international design firms, or renowned architectural consultancies.
• Hands-on experience in overseas or international projects, with the ability to independently conduct project discussions, presentations, and coordination in English.
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing and mentoring small design teams of at least two members.
• Proven experience in architectural concept and schematic design across at least three of the following sectors:
  • Residential
  • Office
  • Hospitality
  • Commercial/Mixed-use
  • Public Buildings
• Experience in basement planning, site master planning, and general layout design.
• Demonstrated involvement in the full project lifecycle, from concept design through construction documentation and project completion.
• Proven experience in architectural design competitions and bidding processes.
• Experience leading project teams and managing client relationships is highly preferred.
• Award-winning project experience will be considered a strong advantage.

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of architectural design standards, building codes, approval procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Strong design thinking, architectural form development, and conceptual design capabilities.
• Excellent visualization and presentation skills with a keen aesthetic sense.
• Proficient in Revit, Rhino, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), and AI-assisted rendering/visualization tools.

Competencies

• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong leadership and team collaboration capabilities.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proactive, responsive, and solution-driven mindset.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in both Chinese and English.

Additional Requirements

A portfolio demonstrating representative project experience is mandatory.

Additional Information

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At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.

 

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 2025. 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.