Internship Data Center Design Jobs in Chicago, IL

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.

We are seeking a Lead Architect with deep expertise in the design and delivery of colocation and hyperscale cloud data center facilities. The ideal candidate is a licensed architect with a proven track record of leading complex, mission critical projects from concept to commissioning. This role will play a key part in shaping the architecture of high-performance, secure, and scalable data center environments to meet the evolving demands of top tier cloud and colocation clients.

This position offers the flexibility of a remote work schedule and can be based from a variety of locations in the US where AECOM has an office.

Although the position is primarily remote periodic travel may be required for client meetings, key project milestones, onsite collaboration sessions, or other business‑critical activities. Travel is expected to be occasional and scheduled in advance.

AECOM is a leader in the global data center consulting industry with robust teams in the Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia.  In this role, you will have the opportunity to work with our teams around the world on high-profile, fast-paced data center projects for global clients.  This is a hands-on, client-facing role with an opportunity for upward career mobility.  

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead architectural design for large scale hyperscale cloud data center and colocation projects, from early concept through construction administration and closeout.
• Collaborate with internal engineering disciplines, construction teams, and external stakeholders to develop fully coordinated and integrated design solutions.
• Develop and review drawings, specifications, and technical documentation, ensuring compliance with codes, standards, and client design guidelines.
• Manage coordination with consultants, contractors, and permitting authorities to support project delivery and regulatory compliance.
• Serve as the architectural subject matter expert for hyperscale and colocation clients, ensuring operational efficiency, scalability, and reliability in facility design.
• Mentor and guide junior architects and designers, fostering technical excellence and design innovation.
• Maintain and apply knowledge of industry best practices and data center design trends.
• Support business development, proposal writing, and conceptual architectural designs for new pursuits.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree with a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and or education.
• Demonstrated experience with colocation and hyperscale data center projects.
• Experience with and knowledge of building codes, mission critical infrastructure standards, and data center design requirements.
• Experience in BIM ACC (Revit), AutoCAD, and related design tools.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 5+ years of experience working with hyperscale client standards and colocation facility delivery models.
• Active U.S. Architectural license.
• LEED accreditation or equivalent sustainable design credentials.
• Experience working in fast paced, global project environments.
• Extensive experience working with permitting authorities and AHJs.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and project management skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary and geographically diverse teams.

• Relocation is not available for this role
• Sponsorship is not available for this role

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.