Principal Technologist - Mechanical, Data Centers

AECOM is seeking a Principal Technologist - Mechanical, Data Centers to be based in South Africa's Enterprise Capabilities office in Cape Town. This position will support a team locally based in South Africa and Global Teams. As a part of AECOM's culture, it offers a flexible hybrid work arrangement which accommodates both office and out-of-office work schedules.

About Enterprise Capabilities

Fundamental to our Think and Act Globally strategy and digital adoption, Enterprise Capabilities (EC) is AECOM’s primary vehicle for workshare. Operating across geographic boundaries and time-zones, EC partners with regional and Global Business Line project teams to provide technical expertise, accelerate delivery and keep AECOM competitive in the industry. 

With a team of over 3000 technical professionals located across nine countries and remote technical anchors, EC teams are trusted to deliver high-quality, specialist services that help to fill capability gaps, resourcing needs and technical constraints on projects of all scopes and sizes.  

Start here. Grow here.

Here is what you will be doing:

• Serves as a capable professional within specific domains of the field.
• Under general direction, prepares and modifies designs, calculations, sketches, diagrams, schematic drawings and working drawings. 
• Independently develops alternate technical solutions and design options in support of project team, e.g. white paper research, code review and wide range of difficult problems.
• Develops and/or implements the results of reports, opinions, or recommendations to address design challenges/opportunities.
• Leads the development and implementation of the design ideas and solutions.
• Responsible for communication and collaboration with full design team and client.
• Oversees and coordinates the technical work for projects consistent with experience.
• Understands the marketing of professional services.
• Develops and leads technical approach and criteria for a design element, and coordinates complex work.
• Ensures compliance to Quality Assurance Procedures.
• May be required to sign and seal documents (e.g. drawings).
• Employee works with clients as well as the internal and external project team to execute the project from concept to execution and completion.

Here is what we are looking for:

• Bachelor of Science or Engineering from an accredited University

• 12 + years' experience within the built environment after obtainment of undergrad

• Professionally registered as an Engineer with ECSA

• Experience in all three of the main mechanical engineering disciplines (HVAC, Wet Services & Fire) will be advantageous

At AECOM, you will have freedom to grow in a world of opportunity

At AECOM, our Freedom to Grow philosophy supports flexibility and balance to help our people thrive. As part of this approach, we ask all hybrid employees to work from an AECOM office at least three days per week.

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.