Senior Associate - Urban Planning

Company Description

Work with Us. Change the World.

At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.

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.

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.

Job Description

AECOM are currently seeking a Senior Associate - Spatial Planning, to join our Urbanism + Planning practice, based in Dubai. The role involves leading the development of strategic land use and masterplanning projects across a variety of sectors, with a strong focus on aligning proposals with planning frameworks. The position requires managing complex projects from early-stage feasibility through to detailed spatial strategies, ensuring integration of transport, infrastructure, housing, and environmental considerations. The Senior Associate is expected to work closely with government stakeholders, developers, and multidisciplinary teams to guide planning policy, zoning, and urban growth in a sustainable and contextually appropriate manner.

Responsibilities:

• Develop long-term plans for land use and urban growth.
• Align spatial plans with national or regional development goals and sustainability targets.
• Draft and implement planning policies, frameworks, and guidelines.
• Interpret and apply planning legislation, zoning regulations, and building codes.
• Conduct site assessments considering environmental, social, and economic constraints.
• Evaluate the suitability of land for proposed developments or infrastructure.
• Consult with local authorities, developers, community groups, and government bodies.
• Facilitate public consultations and workshops to gather input and foster buy-in.
• Prepare regional plans, masterplans, urban design frameworks, and development briefs.
• Integrate transport, infrastructure, housing, and environmental planning into cohesive proposals.
• Use GIS and mapping tools to assess spatial relationships, land use patterns, and growth trends.
• Visualise data to inform decision-making and communication.
• Assess the potential impacts of proposed developments on communities and ecosystems.
• Ensure sustainability and resilience are embedded in planning strategies.
• Work closely with architects, transport planners, engineers, and economists to deliver integrated solutions.
• Coordinate across different departments or sectors (e.g. housing, infrastructure, environment).

Qualifications

• A Bachelors Degree in Urban Planning or Geography is required.
• 14+ years experience in Urban Planning

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.

ReqID: J10131639

Business Line: U&P

Business Group: DCS

Strategic Business Unit: ME and Africa

Career Area: Planning

Work Location Model: Hybrid

Legal Entity: AECOM MIDDLE EAST LIMITED ABU DHABI

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