Associate Principal, Senior Urban Planner

AECOM seeks an Associate Principal, Senior Urban Planner to support its Federal practice. This hybrid role allows for a mix of in-office and remote work, ideally based in Orange or Los Angeles, CA. Responsibilities include project acquisition, client relationship management, and collaboration on innovative solutions for federal agencies. The position requires strong analytical skills and expertise in urban planning principles to ensure alignment with federal guidelines.
About the position

AECOM is actively seeking an Associate Principal, Senior Urban Planner to support our Federal practice. This role offers the freedom and flexibility to work on a hybrid schedule, combining in-office time with remote work. The ideal candidate will have a broad sphere of influence throughout the West Region, with a preference for being seated in either the Orange or Los Angeles, CA offices. The Urban Planning Group and Federal Planning Group at AECOM form a powerhouse of expertise dedicated to shaping both local and national landscapes. Our Urban Planning team consists of a diverse group of specialists committed to creating vibrant, sustainable urban environments. We prioritize livability, resilience, and economic vitality, crafting comprehensive master plans and designing transit-oriented developments 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 and inclusive future for all. 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.

Responsibilities
• Spearhead the identification, pursuit, and acquisition of new projects in alignment with the company's strategic objectives.
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• Cultivate and nurture relationships with existing and potential clients, understanding their needs and delivering tailored solutions.
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• Collaborate with the leadership team to develop and execute comprehensive business development strategies, ensuring sustainable growth and market expansion.
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• Champion a client-centric approach across all project phases, prioritizing client satisfaction, and fostering long-term partnerships.
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• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, addressing inquiries, resolving issues, and proactively anticipating future needs.
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• Lead by example, instilling a culture of exceptional service delivery and client engagement within the team.
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• Utilize expertise in urban planning principles, regulations, and best practices to conceptualize and develop innovative solutions for federal projects.
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• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to formulate and appraise plans and standards, ensuring alignment with federal guidelines and objectives.
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• Assess the feasibility and soundness of proposed planning products, providing strategic insights to optimize project outcomes.
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• Serve as a trusted advisor and consultant on technical specialties related to urban planning, offering guidance on facility types, federal standards, and program functions.
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• Monitor and ensure compliance with federal guidance governing installation planning activities, mitigating risks and ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements.
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• Partner with Principal Planning leaders on all planning-related matters, leveraging expertise and experience to drive operational excellence.
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• Evaluate the operations and activities of assigned responsibilities, identifying areas for improvement and recommending modifications as needed to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

Requirements
• 8 years of experience + Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning / Landscape Architecture / Architecture or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education.
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• US citizenship is a requirement for this position.

Nice-to-haves
• 15+ years of experience with master planning/site planning products for military installations or other federal agencies.
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• Strong understanding of US Military culture.
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• Strong workshop facilitation skills.
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• Ability to travel.
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• AICP certification strongly preferred.
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• Knowledge of federal planning regulations, including NEPA, Section 106, and other relevant statutes.
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• Proficiency in GIS software, CAD tools, and other urban planning technologies.
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• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think critically and creatively.
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• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
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• Experience managing multiple projects simultaneously and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
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• Familiarity with sustainability principles, smart growth strategies, and resilient design concepts.

Benefits
• Medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits
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• Paid time off
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• Leaves of absence
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• Voluntary benefits
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• Perks
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• U.S. and global well-being programs
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• Employee assistance program
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• Business travel insurance
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• Service recognition awards
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• Retirement savings plan
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• Employee stock purchase plan