Associate Director - Smart Cities

At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.

Your impact

At Jacobs, we are building a Digital and Data capability, working to apply digital expertise to some of the most ambitious urban and infrastructure developments around the world.

In Digital and Data we work with clients to establish their digital infrastructure needs, then develop place-based digital strategies by exploring the assets required and benefits they can bring key stakeholders. We support the design, deployment, cybersecurity and operation of networks, Smart City platforms and operational technology. In this emerging business area, we work with cities, local authorities and developer clients, leading telecom operators and investors, manufacturing clients, IoT providers and development owners.

About The Opportunity

We are looking for an Associate Director for Smart Cities who can focus on details and see the big picture. You will be joining a team who is delivering digital transformation in cities, regions and developments, supporting Clients on major projects globally across multiple sectors. This is an exciting opportunity to join a high-performing team in a rapidly growing market, realize real change and contribute to revolutionary change on a city scale.

You will be tasked with leading multiple projects, often alongside wider infrastructure teams, to help deliver a diverse range of outcomes for our clients across the Smart City project lifecycle – from strategy and vision setting, to business case and operating model considerations, as well as design elements to move the projects towards end specification setting.

You will be responsible for building your personal brand and developing relationships internally and with clients to help us share knowledge and build new working winning opportunities, you will also be called upon to help colleagues develop their digital awareness, sharing their own knowledge to help others.

The selected candidate must have an excellent team-player attitude, with the ability to consistently demonstrate the highest levels of professionalism, integrity, mutual respect and accountability to others. By joining Jacobs, you’ll commit to supporting and engaging with these teams, as we work to build a company like no other. To thrive in this role, you’ll be self-motivated, inquisitive, and willing to challenge established practice.

We value collaboration and believe that in-person interactions are crucial for both our culture and client delivery. We empower employees with our hybrid working policy, allowing them to split their work week between Jacobs offices/projects and remote locations enabling them to deliver their best work.

Here's what you'll need

Degree qualified

At least 10+ years in consulting with projects in digital transformation, smart cities, data and connected disciplines

Experience leading projects as a technical lead in Smart Cities with agile methodologies, stakeholder and risk Management

Expertise in both relevant technologies (such as 4G/5G communications, IoT, big data/analytics) and their business, social and economic impact. Technical knowledge of the design implications for digital infrastructure and operational technologies.

Ability to translate complex technical tasks into palatable solutions for our clients, often within wider multi-disciplinary urban project sectors

Experience leading projects and teams to deliver strategies and design outputs for cities, regions, developments, and communities to help harness the potential of digital technologies

Experience of business case / value case creation for technology and innovation is a big advantage

Experience and knowledge of master planning and infrastructure / building design stages, and related themes such as digital, sustainability and climate change. Experience working with planners, urban designers, and other built environment design disciplines

Ability to lead and influence teams and decisions through effective communication skills. Able to standup in complex business discussion and present in front of C-level officers, stakeholders executives, government authorities’ offices

Ability to train and mentor more junior members of staff

Experience of business development such as proposal writing or developing commercial propositions, working with clients to develop new working winning areas and projects

Degree qualified in Engineering, Data Science, Information Systems, or a related discipline (Master's degree preferred).

Approximately 10-15 years of relevant professional experience in strategic data integration, advanced analytics, and data-driven decision-making, ideally within infrastructure, urban planning, or related sectors.

Demonstrated experience working with senior government or major infrastructure organisations, shaping strategic data initiatives and providing advisory at the executive level.

Deep expertise in leading data analytics platforms, including Palantir Foundry and StreetLight Data, as well as proficiency with advanced visualisation software such as Power BI, Tableau, and related tools.

Strong strategic thinking capabilities, coupled with the ability to translate complex data and technical insights into actionable strategic recommendations for senior decision-makers.

Exceptional communication skills (both oral and written English), enabling effective stakeholder engagement and collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.

Proven record of mentoring teams, enhancing organisational analytics capabilities, and fostering a culture of strategic innovation and continuous improvement.

At Jacobs, from our inclusive employee networks to our positive mental health champions—we are committed to fostering a culture of care where you can truly be yourself. Joining Jacobs connects you locally and globally, leveraging our diverse perspectives and unique backgrounds to power our collective strength. We collaborate and share to ensure mutual success.

Safety, flexibility, and professional growth remain paramount in our workplace culture. We provide flexible working arrangements, benefits, and opportunities to make a positive impact through global giving and volunteering programmes. Jacobs offers you the support and resources to maximise your potential and help clients worldwide create a better future.

Begin your Jacobs career in an environment that inspires and empowers you to deliver your best work—today, tomorrow, and beyond.

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