Consultant - Urban Advisory

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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 is currently seeking an experienced Consultant - Urban Advisory to join its team in Dubai. The successful candidate will play a key role in developing the research, evidence and strategic narratives that underpin our advisory projects, thought leadership and business development activities.

The Consultant will undertake and lead independent research, working with quantitative and qualitative information from a wide range of sources. They will be expected to critically assess evidence, challenge assumptions, identify emerging trends and draw connections across disciplines to help frame problems and build persuasive arguments.

The role combines independent research, planning and design awareness, analytical thinking and strong communication skills with an ability to understand the commercial and strategic context in which our clients make decisions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and undertake high-quality independent research across urban planning, design, transport, infrastructure, real estate, economics, policy, technology and related themes.
• Develop clear, evidence-led narratives that connect research findings to planning, design, engineering and investment decisions.
• Capable of managing multiple projects concurrently, maintaining clarity, consistency, and momentum across all stages of delivery.
• Translate complex technical, spatial and quantitative information into concise and accessible insights suitable for senior clients and decision-makers.
• Contribute to the preparation of high-quality reports, presentations, monographs, thought leadership pieces and other client-facing material.
• Support business development by researching emerging markets, sectors, clients and investment themes and identifying opportunities where AECOM's capabilities can respond to evolving client needs.
• Collaborate with planners, urban designers, engineers, economists, transport specialists, infrastructure teams and other disciplines to develop integrated perspectives on complex urban challenges.
• Develop and maintain a strong understanding of emerging issues affecting cities and infrastructure across the Middle East, while drawing on relevant global research and precedent.
• Apply appropriate analytical and research tools, including responsible use of AI-enabled research methods, while maintaining rigorous source validation, critical judgement and quality control.
• Contribute to the continuous development of the Advisory team's research methodologies, knowledge base and approaches to communicating complex ideas.

Qualifications

• A minimum of 10 years post-undergraduate experience.
• Bachelors degree in the relevant discipline field. Masters degree preferred.
• Experience within Urban / Masterplanning, Economics, Policy, and Development Strategy is required for the role.

Additional Information

At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.

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.