Program Director

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 currently recruiting for a Program Director to join us at our Panama City office. The selected candidate will be an exceptional leader with proven expertise in project management and delivery, leadership, and innovative construction practices. The ideal candidate will have a track record of successfully leading large-scale infrastructure programs and driving operational excellence within the industry.

Your day-to-day will include but not be limited to the following tasks and responsibilities:

• Lead the co-ordination of the program, working closely with the program delivery team, consultants, and contractors.
• Effectively manage teams of program controls, design, and other support consultants to properly allocate resources and maximize efficiencies across the program. 
• Lead a safety culture and associated behaviors, in order to promote health and safety across the Program and wider organization.
• Determine and track delivery milestones and key performance indicators. 
• Liaise with clients and stakeholders to ensure alignment with program goals and compliance with legal requirements.
• Provide best practices from your experience and knowledge of the best national and international technical practices including procedures, codes and regulations in Panama and internationally.
• Drive all stages of the program life cycle including start-up, execution, and handover of major projects.
• Advocate for and champion ethical and safe working practices throughout the organization, ensuring the highest standards of integrity.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant Engineering field (i.e. Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Structural, etc.) or Architecture + 8 YORE or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education
• Fluent Spanish and Advanced English.
• Extensive knowledge of and understanding of capital project and program delivery and how this supports and integrates with a wider high functioning environment and capital investment plan. 
• Strong and demonstrable leadership and management skills, including project management, and procurement.
• A proven senior leader in large organizations, with a track record of driving strong performance, organizational success and achieving objectives.
• Has an extensive, industry-wide network. Is renowned for successfully shaping, leading, or transforming multiple large-scale or very large programs, or for an extended period leading a mega program. Ability to take a "hands-on approach" to resolve complex detailed problems.
• Recognized as a leader in program management, consistently providing visionary leadership and strategic direction in the application of program management practices for key clients.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant Engineering field (i.e. Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Structural, etc.) or Architecture +20 years of relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education, including 10 years of leadership in project and program management.
• Experience with FIDIC contracts.
• Experience with large and complex Design-Build projects.

This job application is for future opportunities without immediate urgency.

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  

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.