Associate Director of Architecture – Defence & Nuclear

Aecom Australia Pty Ltd; Adelaide; Hybrid; AUD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible work arrangements

Up to 6 weeks additional annual leave

Flex public holidays

Continuous learning and career growth

Job summary

AECOM is seeking an Associate Director – Architecture (NSQEP) to provide architectural leadership on defence, research and nuclear infrastructure projects. Based in Adelaide, the role supports relocation for suitable candidates, delivering safe, compliant and high-performing facilities.

You will lead multidisciplinary teams, shape design strategy and ensure outcomes align with nuclear safety standards, Defence requirements and governance norms.

Qualifications

• Accredited degree in Architecture with current registration.
• 10–15 years' architecture experience with leadership on defence, research, healthcare, laboratory or safety-critical projects.
• Experience delivering projects within highly regulated environments with exposure to nuclear or defence sectors.
• Strong understanding of nuclear safety frameworks, Defence design requirements and government project delivery standards.
• Experience leading architectural teams and managing multidisciplinary delivery.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management and client relationship skills.
• Chartered status, professional membership or relevant postgraduate qualifications is highly regarded.
• Australian Citizenship (or AUKUS Clearance) is required.

Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design and delivery of complex defence, research and nuclear infrastructure projects.
• Provide design leadership across multidisciplinary teams, ensuring high-quality and coordinated project outcomes.
• Oversee architectural outputs that support nuclear safety requirements, regulatory approvals and project governance.
• Act as a trusted advisor to clients, stakeholders and project partners throughout all phases of project delivery.
• Guide development of innovative, practical and resilient design solutions across complex building typologies.
• Mentor and develop architecture team members while fostering a collaborative and high-performing culture.
• Support business growth through client engagement, technical leadership and delivery of exceptional project outcomes.

Skills

Architecture degree

Architect registration

10–15 years exp

Leadership roles

Regulated environments

Nuclear safety

Stakeholder management

Client relationships

Postgraduate qualifications

Education

Architecture degree

Architect registration in Australia

Postgraduate qualifications

Job description

AECOM is seeking an Associate Director – Architecture (NSQEP) to provide architectural leadership on defence, research and nuclear infrastructure projects. Based in Adelaide, the role supports relocation for suitable candidates, delivering safe, compliant and high-performing facilities.

You will lead multidisciplinary teams, shape design strategy and ensure outcomes align with nuclear safety standards, Defence requirements and governance norms.