Principal Project Manager / Design Manager - Aviation

“AECOM has given me so many opportunities to grow. The projects I work on are city-shaping and always different.” – Sarah Whitehouse, Transport Team Lead, Auckland NZ

Come grow with us.

As our population grows, so does demand for safe, expedient, cost-effective transportation. Our transportation experts leverage local knowledge and global capability to help clients navigate challenges and build a better world. Our expertise in planning, designing, and managing transportation systems, as well as restoring and replacing older infrastructure, allows us to help public and private clients move people and goods in smarter, more advanced, and sustainable ways. At AECOM, you’ll thrive in an inclusive and forward-thinking environment where your contributions are valued.

Everyone belongs at AECOM

We’re committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging - because great ideas come from diverse perspectives. AECOM is proud to be a Fortune 500 Most Admired Company, a WGEA Employer of Choice for Gender Equality, #Work180 Equitable Workplace Awards 2025 Winner and an AWEI Bronze Tier LGBTQ+ Inclusive Employer.

Join AECOM’s Auckland Aviation team as a Principal Project Manager / Design Manager, leading the delivery of complex airport and aviation infrastructure projects. In this hands-on, client-facing role, you’ll manage multidisciplinary design teams, oversee project programmes and budgets, and ensure technical excellence from concept to completion. You’ll combine strong aviation design expertise with programme leadership, acting as a true doer/seller who builds trusted client relationships and drives successful project outcomes.

• Deliver and coordinate aviation infrastructure projects across New Zealand airports and select Pacific and Australian programmes.
• Guide design teams day-to-day, ensuring designs meet technical, regulatory, and operational requirements.
• Maintain strong client engagement, providing technical advice and oversight while managing project progress and outcomes.
• Manage aviation programme delivery, including schedules, budgets, and quality assurance for primarily private-sector projects.
• Hands on technical design when and where needed amongst guiding teams

The qualities that help you thrive

The following qualifications and experience are highly desired, but if you don’t tick all the boxes you could still be a perfect fit for this role. Please apply, all applications will be considered.

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering with a minimum of 12 years’ experience in design and project delivery.
• Proven record of delivering large-scale projects on time, within budget, and aligned with client expectations.
• Strong background in contract administration, stakeholder engagement, and building enduring client relationships.
• Comprehensive understanding of construction methodologies, project timeframes, and OH&S best practices, with a strong commitment to safety.
• Experience in airport infrastructure and master planning highly advantageous.

Why you’ll love working with us

• Flexible work arrangements, including alternative start/finish times, part-time, job-sharing and hybrid work options
• Purchase up to 6 weeks additional annual leave per year         
• Flex public holidays – swap Easter or other holidays for ones that suit you better
• Continuous learning and growth - lunch and learns, professional development courses, financial study assistance, 5 days paid study leave, global career opportunities

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.