Urban Planning and Design Manager

Job Description

AECOM is seeking a visionary Urban Planning and Design Manager and strategist with extensive experience leading innovative, large-scale planning, infrastructure and development projects and who thrives in interdisciplinary environments and believes that great design and planning is inseparable from public trust and equity. The ideal candidate has a passion for working on complex projects, leads with empathy and designs with purpose. This role is to be based in Austin or Dallas, Texas, Chicago, New Orleans, or Phoenix.

The successful candidate will lead the delivery of complex planning and design infrastructure projects with a focus on large urbanized areas, working both locally and on high-impact projects across the country. This role involves managing multidisciplinary internal and external teams, shaping project vision, and serving as a key liaison among design teams, municipal leaders, and the communities we serve. Adept at engaging public, private, and nonprofit stakeholders, the successful candidate will drive equitable, design-led solutions from concept through execution—aligning community needs with infrastructure and economic development goals. They will facilitate cross-sector collaboration and serve as a connector of ideas, disciplines, and people. A strong leader with expertise across planning and urban design, this role will leverage AECOM’s interdisciplinary platform to deliver innovative, community-centered outcomes, while actively participating in civic and professional organizations that advance AECOM’s mission and industry leadership.

• Manages one or more moderately complex projects, and clients, involving a combination of the following:
• Clients with a regional geographic footprint; OR,
• Other complexities, such as projects that involve strategic planning, economics, infrastructure, environmental protection, due diligence, etc.
• May manage all phases of projects (from beginning to close out).
• Works mostly independently but receives basic instruction on specific assignments, objectives, complex features and possible solutions.
• Receives technical guidance on unusual or complex problems and supervisory approval on proposed plans for projects.
• May manage and supervise: Experienced urban designers, planners, landscape architects, engineers (all disciplines applicable), as well as project administration, project controls, scheduling, cost control, estimating and procurement representatives.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

• BA/BS + 10 Years of experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education including 2 years of leadership                  

Preferred Qualifications:

• Professional licensure
• Master’s degree in landscape architecture or urban design
• 12 years of relevant professional urban planning or urban design related experience
• 3+ years of applicable design leadership and/or project management experience
• Collaborator & Integrator
• Project leadership experience
• Familiarity with and past participation with business development activities such as marketing, proposals and client development.
• Excellent internal and external communication of design vision
• Excellent written communication skills
• Non-mandatory participation in civic-minded organizations
• Evidence of third-party recognition of your work or projects you have played a significant role in

Additional Information

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.