Graduate Architect

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

Join AECOM’s 2026 Graduate Program

Are you a passionate and driven architecture graduate eager to bring bold ideas to life? AECOM is offering an exciting opportunity for a Graduate Architect to join our Architecture & Interior Design team in Abu Dhabi as part of our 2025 Graduate Program.

This is your chance to gain hands-on experience with one of the world’s leading design and engineering firms, contributing to iconic and award-winning projects that shape the built environment across the Middle East and beyond.

About the Role
As a Graduate Architect at AECOM, you will work alongside industry experts on a diverse range of projects spanning all design and construction phases. From conceptual design to technical documentation, you will actively contribute to the creative and technical success of each project.

This role is perfect for graduates who are eager to grow, ready to think critically, and excited to bring fresh ideas to complex architectural challenges.

Key Responsibilities
• Assist in developing creative and context-responsive conceptual designs and presentations
• Support the evolution of project designs through detailed feasibility studies and design development
• Contribute to the technical delivery of projects, including working drawings, specifications, and contract documentation
• Participate in design reviews and contribute ideas that uphold and elevate AECOM’s standard of “Design Excellence”
• Assist in preparing documentation for planning, zoning, and permit approvals
• Work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team, ensuring outputs meet project goals and professional standards

What We’re Looking For
We are seeking graduates who are:

• Inspired by innovative architecture and human-centered design
• Strong communicators and collaborative team players
• Detail-oriented with strong design sensibility and a willingness to learn
• Comfortable with architectural software and visualization tools

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

1. Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Architecture from an accredited university.
2. Candidates must be recent 2024 or 2025 graduates (no later than Sept 2025) to be eligible for AECOM's Graduate Program.
3. Successful applicants must have achieved a minimum GPA of 3.3 or 2:1 (or equivalent) and above.
4. If you hold a Master’s degree, it must have started within 12 months of finishing your Bachelor’s to meet the program’s continuous education requirement.
5. Candidates with more than 1 year of postgraduate work experience are not eligible for the program and are encouraged to apply for our professional-level roles instead.

Desirable Criteria:

1. Preferably pursuing or having obtained RIBA Part 3 / Registered Architect status.
2. Strong spatial and technical abilities with excellent analytical and organizational skills.
3. Proficient in both hand drawing and computer graphics.
4. Sound knowledge of AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, and Microsoft Office.
5. Experience with BIM, Revit, and InDesign is advantageous.

Additional Information

Recruitment Timeline

Here’s what you can expect throughout the application journey:

• Applications Close: May 23, 2025
• Screening & Interviews: May – June 2025 (includes CV review, phone screening, and technical interviews)
• Mobilization & Visa Processing: July – August 2025
• Start Date: September 2025 (Earlier start requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis).
• Program Orientation: October 2025 - Our full graduate cohort from across the Middle East will come together for a dedicated induction, networking, and team-building experience.

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.