AECOM

About AECOM

AECOM is a global infrastructure consulting company. It provides engineering, design, planning and construction management across transport, water, energy and the built environment. Its South African business, AECOM SA, has offices in Johannesburg, including one in Sandton. Local teams draw on the group's international knowledge while serving South African clients.

Infrastructure is where AECOM does its main work. Engineers and planners help to design roads, rail links, water systems and urban developments. These projects depend on qualified professionals, and the country has a shortage of civil, mechanical and electrical engineers. AECOM therefore invests in the next generation of graduates through bursaries and training.

How AECOM supports students

AECOM SA has offered bursaries for full-time study at a South African tertiary institution. Recent calls named civil, mechanical and electrical engineering, as well as quantity surveying. Published details from a recent call said the bursary could cover tuition, books and accommodation up to R100,000 a year. It also included a once-off laptop allowance of up to R8,000.

Beyond bursaries, the company points to several other development routes. These include the AECOM Educational Trust, educational assistance for staff, a Graduate Development Programme and a Candidacy Programme. The Candidacy Programme helps graduates work towards professional registration. In other words, support continues after a student finishes university.

No work experience is needed to apply. This makes the bursary a good fit for school leavers and undergraduates who are still early in their studies.

Quantity surveying is worth a quick explanation. Quantity surveyors measure materials, estimate costs and control budgets on building and infrastructure projects. Engineers and surveyors work side by side, which is why the bursary covers both. Students who enjoy numbers and practical problem solving may find this route rewarding.

Working for a global firm also brings an advantage. Staff share design standards, software and lessons from projects in many countries. A South African graduate can therefore build skills that apply well beyond one city or one client. Recent calls ran through an online recruitment platform, so you should expect to apply on screen and upload your documents.

What to know before applying

Requirements in recent calls included South African citizenship and a matric average of 75%. Students already at university needed to maintain more than 65%. The bursary continues only while you perform well. If your average falls below 65%, AECOM may review the award.

A service obligation applies as well. The bursary holder must work for AECOM after graduating for each year the company funded. For example, a student who receives support for four years would be expected to return for the same period. Read the contract closely before you sign.

Amounts, fields and closing dates change with each intake, so confirm them on the official AECOM careers page. Prepare your matric results, academic record, ID and proof of registration in advance. Apply early and keep your marks strong throughout your studies.