Senior Project Architect-Federal Program

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There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.

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AECOM is seeking a high-caliber Senior Project Architect to join our growing Federal Program team in Seattle, WA. The role involves leading design from concept through construction, with occasional construction administration. Strong communication, technical expertise, and multidisciplinary collaboration are essential. The successful candidate will help win, design, and lead architecture teams on projects for Federal clients across the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

Core responsibilities are as follows:

• In concert with other Senior Architects and Designers and Project Manager, lead, shape and guide the development of innovative and functional architectural designs.
• Leverage knowledge of Federal regulations and processes to assist in winning and delivering work for Federal civilian agencies and DOD clients.
• Utilize architectural software (AutoCAD, Revit, BIM) for detailed project plans and drawings.
•  Develop and oversee architectural drawings (plans, elevations, sections, details, etc.) and specifications.
• Direct document production in accordance with identified project specific checklists, AECOM standards, and QA/QC standard program.
• Ensure compliance with building codes, standards, and regulations across a portfolio of projects.
• Integrate sustainable design principles into projects.
• Mentor and guide junior team members, providing regular feedback and support to nurture their growth and development, while fostering a collaborative and supportive studio environment. Facilitate learning opportunities, encourage continuous professional development, and promote a culture of design excellence, quality and innovation within the team.
• Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, including other in-house engineers and external consultants.
• Assist project managers in managing client relationships, team collaboration and stakeholder communication.
• Assist project managers in defining scope from initial project information and overseeing preparation of associated fee proposals, schedules, work plans and additional service requests as required.
• Address design and technical challenges with creative problem-solving.
• Present design ideas clearly and persuasively to clients and stakeholders, ensuring their vision and requirements are understood and integrated into the project. Maintain strong relationships through effective communication, active listening, and responsive feedback, fostering trust and collaboration throughout the project lifecycle.
• Review drawings and specifications meticulously for accuracy and quality.
• Stay current with industry trends, adapting to new technologies and methodologies.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in architecture plus a minimum of six (6) years of related experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education
• Licensed Architect.
• Due to the nature of work, U.S Citizenship is required.
• Background check that is consistent with employees that work on Federal Programs.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in architecture.
• 10+ years of relevant experience.
• Advanced knowledge of the architectural design and planning process, construction documentation, and administration.
• Ability to conduct code studies and ensure compliance with building codes, standards, and building systems across all project phases.
• Federal project experience, including knowledge of agency standards, procurement processes, and compliance with regulations such as the ADA and NHPA.
• Experience delivering projects in institutional settings or campus environments (e.g., higher education, civic, government, etc.).
• Experience mentoring junior staff and leading multidisciplinary teams, including providing technical guidance, supervising interns or consultants, and fostering collaborative project delivery.
• Positive collaborative spirit with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to proactively address complex design or technical issues.
• Utilize architectural software (AutoCAD, Revit, BIM) for detailed project plans and drawings.
• Affinity with developing details and experience in construction documents.
• Capable of writing or contributing to the development of project specific specifications.
• Ability to work independently or with other senior architects to lead integrated design teams of varying sizes to accomplish project delivery from concept through construction document completion and may perform construction administration.
• Ability to be client-facing and lead client discussions and/or charrettes.
• Experience working across a range of project delivery methods (e.g., in-house design, design-bid-build, CMAR) and leading project execution from programming through closeout.
• Experience acting as an owner’s representative or direct liaison to clients, offering insight into stakeholder priorities, project alignment with institutional goals, and the client-side perspective on A/E team performance.
• Excellent communication skills both verbal and written with the ability to clearly articulate design concepts, collaborate across multiple disciplines and develop graphics and visualizations to support communications.

• Sponsorship for US employment authorization is not available now or in the future for this position.
• Hybrid work environment.

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.