Land Development Lead – Data Centers

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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.

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AECOM is seeking a Land development lead – Data Centers with a passion for driving results to join our Buildings + Places Team in Arlington, VA.  In this role, the candidate will plan, direct, and execute multiple projects supporting land development, due diligence, campus planning, site design and entitlements for next-generation digital infrastructure. The candidate will also collaborate with leadership to create a land development team that can address site design, infrastructure and entitlements needs across technology, manufacturing and other industrial uses. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in site development engineering, planning and data centers.

Responsibilities:

• Lead cross-functional teams, including engineers, planners, and consultants.
• Build trust with the client, local communities and regulatory bodies.
• Support identification and evaluation of land opportunities aligned with long-term data center growth.
• Accountable for the overall results of a project or groups of projects, including goal setting, team leadership and adherence to budget and schedule
• Performs various management, leadership and people accountability responsibilities for a specific technical group or department
• Drive to completion due diligence, zoning, permitting, and entitlement processes.
•  Plan and monitor risk mitigation strategies and contingency plans.
• Reinforce a culture of accountability, innovation, and open communication.
• Recruits, trains, and provides management guidance to less experienced staff
• Provides specialized technical input to studies and design for staff's specific area of expertise.
• Provides technical expertise for studies and design efforts.
• Presents complex technical solutions to clients.
• Performs quality control reviews of work developed by others.
• Participates in development of technical proposals.
• Grow a team of professionals supporting land development broadly.

Desired Attributes:

• Excellent verbal and written communication for stakeholder presentations and reporting.
• Experience in managing client relationships and understanding their business needs.
• Skilled communicator with emotional intelligence and adaptability.
• Embodies a growth-oriented mindset.
• Proven ability to work under pressure in fast-paced environments.
• Ability to manage complex logistics and team dynamics.
• Collaborative mindset with a bias for action and problem-solving.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Real Estate, Urban Planning, or related field.
• 8+ years of experience in land development, infrastructure, or project management.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with data center operations and site development and construction processes.
• Experience demonstrating ability to support large-scale initiatives and cross-functional teams.
• Experience conducting feasibility studies and evaluating potential sites for development.
• Experience with knowledge of environmental assessments, zoning regulations, and land use planning.

• Sponsorship for US employment authorization is not available now or in the future for this position.
• Relocation is not available for this position.

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 2025. 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.