Your Go-To Design Recruiter at Vivid Recruitment

Explore the architecture and engineering behind the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre at the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Parkville. Designed by DesignInc, StudioSTH & McBride Charles Ryan, this world-leading facility blends innovation with compassion.

If you thought Queensland’s design and construction scene was heating up in 2025, just wait until 2026. After a recent trip north, Lee Stevens and Nick Koop came back from Brisbane buzzing with feedback from clients — and the message was loud and clear: 👉 2026 is going to be absolutely nuts. We’re talking a surge of projects across architecture, engineering, design, and construction — and a serious challenge finding enough skilled people to deliver them all. The Buzz on the Ground Everywhere you look in Brisbane, there’s movement. Studios are busy, consultancies are hiring, and projects are being teed up that will redefine the city’s skyline. And the 2032 Olympics ? That countdown clock is ticking louder than ever. Recent reports revealed that Brisbane needs to build 66 hotel rooms a day to be ready for the Games. Sixty-six! Every. Single. Day. Add to that the news that shortlisting has begun for the stadium , and it’s safe to say things are getting very real. That means more work, more pressure on resources, and more demand for high-performing teams across Queensland. 2026: The Year of the Skills Squeeze Clients are already calling it — there’s going to be more work than people . Across every sector, from architecture to infrastructure, the challenge will be finding and keeping key personnel who can actually deliver the pipeline of projects on the horizon. Here’s where the pinch is expected to hit hardest: Project Architects and Associates Senior Structural and Civil Engineers BIM Managers and Coordinators Project Managers (client-side, contractor, and development) Interior Designers (especially in hospitality and multi-residential) For candidates, this means opportunity. More choice, better salaries, and the chance to work on once-in-a-generation projects. For employers, it means one thing: start your hiring strategy now . Our Advice: Don’t Wait for 2026 to Knock on the Door At Vivid Recruitment, we’ve seen market surges before — and the studios that thrive are the ones that plan ahead. The businesses investing in their people now will be the ones ready when the floodgates open. If you’re looking to hire in Architecture, Engineering, Urban Design, or Project Management, now’s the time to c onnect. We’re already working with standout candidates who are exploring opportunities for 2026 and beyond — people you’ll want on your team before everyone else starts competing for them. Looking Ahead Brisbane’s skyline is about to transform. The next 18 months will define the decade ahead for Queensland’s built environment — and the momentum is real. So whether you’re planning to hire, grow your team, or position yourself for the next big career move, let’s talk. Because at this rate, by 2026, Queensland will be the place to be — and we’re here to help you make the most of it. Contact the Team Get in touch with our guys to help you out. Contact: Nicholas Koop , Principal Recruitment Consultant, Engineering - 📲 0426 180 254 📧 nick@vividrecruitment.com.au Lee Stevens , Principal Recruitment Consultant, Architecture, Design, Planning - 📲 0406 470 020 📧 lee@vividrecruitment.com.au You can also connect with Lee on LinkedIn and Nick on LinkedIn or follow the Vivid Recruitment LinkedIn page for more industry insights, news, jobs and general chit chat and tips!  Vivid Recruitment - Your specialist partner in: Architecture & Interior Design Recruitment | Urban Design & Planning Recruitment | Mechanical Engineering Recruitment | Electrical Engineering Recruitment | Structural Engineering Recruitment | Civil Engineering Recruitment | Acoustic Engineering Recruitment | Hydraulic Engineering Recruitment | ESD / Sustainability Engineering Recruitment | Fire Engineering Recruitment

On 8 November, planners and urban designers around the world will unite to celebrate World Town Planning Day (WTPD) — a global event recognising how good planning improves lives, strengthens communities, and shapes sustainable, thriving cities. This year’s theme, “With Planning, We Can!”, highlights the vital role planning plays in solving today’s most pressing challenges — from housing affordability and urban growth to climate resilience and community wellbeing. With Planning, We Can... Create sustainable, inclusive, and resilient places where people and nature thrive. Guide urban growth and development to deliver stronger, better-connected communities. Address climate change and plan for a more adaptable, resilient future. Shape the neighbourhoods of tomorrow — liveable, equitable, and people-centred. Great planning isn’t just about buildings and boundaries — it’s about vision, collaboration, and creating places that truly work for people. The Importance of Planning in Australia In Australia, town planners and urban designers are helping shape the next generation of cities and regions. As population growth continues and infrastructure demands increase, the need for smart, strategic planning has never been greater. From urban renewal and transport planning to sustainable community design, planners are balancing growth with liveability — ensuring our cities remain connected, vibrant, and future-ready. Planning professionals are also leading the way on climate adaptation, green infrastructure, and affordable housing strategies — helping create resilient, thriving communities across Australia. Vivid Recruitment: Experts in Town Planning & Urban Design Recruitment At Vivid Recruitment, we specialise in Architecture, Engineering, and Town Planning recruitment across Australia. Our team understands the unique blend of technical skill, creativity, and strategic thinking required to excel in the planning and urban design sectors. Whether you’re a Town Planner, Urban Designer, Strategic Planner, or Development Assessment professional, we connect you with the right opportunities — and the right people. We work with leading planning consultancies, local councils, and multidisciplinary design studios to match top talent with rewarding roles across: Urban Design & Masterplanning Strategic and Statutory Planning Transport & Infrastructure Planning Environmental and Regional Planning If you’re looking for your next planning or urban design job, or seeking planning talent for your organisation, Vivid Recruitment is your trusted partner. Connect with Lee Stevens or Nick Koop to discuss current opportunities or upcoming hiring needs in town planning and urban design recruitment. Celebrating the Planners Behind the Progress World Town Planning Day is more than a date on the calendar — it’s a global celebration of the people shaping our future cities. From large-scale masterplans to small but mighty local projects, planners are designing the environments where we live, work, and connect. So today, we’re raising a (reusable) coffee cup to all the planners, designers, and place-makers out there making the world a better place — one development at a time. Happy World Town Planning Day 2025 — because With Planning, We Can! Ready to take your next step in planning or urban design? Contact the Team Get in touch with our guys to help you out. Contact: Nicholas Koop , Principal Recruitment Consultant, Engineering - 📲 0426 180 254 📧 nick@vividrecruitment.com.au Lee Stevens , Principal Recruitment Consultant, Architecture, Design, Planning - 📲 0406 470 020 📧 lee@vividrecruitment.com.au You can also connect with Lee on LinkedIn and Nick on LinkedIn or follow the Vivid Recruitment LinkedIn page for more industry insights, news, jobs and general chit chat and tips! Australia’s trusted experts in Architecture, Engineering, and Town Planning recruitment. Vivid Recruitment - Your specialist partner in: Architecture & Interior Design Recruitment | Urban Design & Planning Recruitment | Mechanical Engineering Recruitment | Electrical Engineering Recruitment | Structural Engineering Recruitment | Civil Engineering Recruitment | Acoustic Engineering Recruitment | Hydraulic Engineering Recruitment | ESD / Sustainability Engineering Recruitment | Fire Engineering Recruitment

When it comes to hiring in today’s market, smart consultancies and design practices aren’t just looking for the best people in town — they’re looking for the best people, full stop. With major infrastructure, architecture, and engineering projects ramping up across Queensland ahead of the 2032 Olympics, consultancies are feeling the heat. There’s more work than ever, but skilled professionals remain in short supply. So what are the savvy operators doing? They’re widening the net. An Observation from Nick “I spoke with a consulting client last week who’s looking for an intermediate engineer,” says Nick Koop , Director at Vivid Recruitment . “They’re working on exciting projects, have a solid team, and on the face of it, it should be an easy sell to candidates. They’ve interviewed six people — none from Brisbane. That really shocked me. The workload across Queensland is only going to go one way over the next 12 months, and if companies are already struggling to find local talent now, I shudder to think what it will be like next year and beyond.” Nick’s observation highlights a growing reality — as Queensland’s construction, design, and infrastructure pipelines surge, the local talent pool simply can’t keep up. The New Normal: Location Optional Remote collaboration isn’t just a pandemic trend — it’s now standard practice across the architecture, design, engineering, and planning industries. Whether it’s an architect working from Melbourne for a Brisbane studio, or a structural engineer based in Adelaide consulting on Queensland’s health and education projects, the postcode on someone’s email signature matters far less than it used to. Consultancies that have embraced this shift are discovering a major advantage: access to a deeper, more diverse talent pool — and faster, smarter hiring outcomes. The Queensland Effect It’s no secret that Queensland is booming . From Olympic venues and transport upgrades to large-scale urban renewal and multi-residential projects, the pipeline of work is massive. But with that growth comes pressure — particularly on local design, planning, and engineering teams. The most forward-thinking consultancies aren’t waiting for the perfect local candidate to appear. They’re actively recruiting from interstate (and occasionally overseas), focusing on cultural fit, project alignment, and long-term capability rather than postcode. So, How Are We Expecting Things to Unfold? As we edge closer to 2026 and beyond, competition for top talent in Queensland — and across Australia — will only intensify. We’re already seeing: More firms hiring interstate , particularly from Victoria, New South Wales, and South Australia. Flexible hybrid arrangements becoming the standard for many architecture and engineering consultancies. Greater emphasis on retention , culture, and leadership development as practices focus on keeping the exceptional talent they’ve already secured. What This Means for Employers If you’re still restricting your recruitment search to your own postcode, you could be missing out on exceptional talent. With the right systems, communication, and flexibility in place, distance doesn’t have to be a barrier — and widening your search could be the key to building a future-ready team. At Vivid Recruitment , we’re helping architecture, design, engineering, and planning practices across Australia tap into the best talent — whether they’re around the corner or across state lines. Final Word from Lee Stevens “As recruiters who are on the ground every day talking with candidates and clients, we’re seeing this shift firsthand,” says Lee Stevens , Director and Principal Recruitment Consultant at Vivid Recruitment . “Practices that are open to interstate or flexible arrangements are the ones securing the best people — especially in this competitive environment. It’s not just about finding talent anymore — it’s about being smart, adaptable, and ready for where the industry’s heading.”  Because when the work’s booming and the competition’s fierce, thinking outside the postcode might just be your smartest business move yet. Contact the Team Get in touch with our guys to help you out. Contact: Nicholas Koop , Principal Recruitment Consultant, Engineering - 📲 0426 180 254 📧 nick@vividrecruitment.com.au Lee Stevens , Principal Recruitment Consultant, Architecture, Design, Planning - 📲 0406 470 020 📧 lee@vividrecruitment.com.au You can also connect with Lee on LinkedIn and Nick on LinkedIn or follow the Vivid Recruitment LinkedIn page for more industry insights, news, jobs and general chit chat and tips! Vivid Recruitment - Your specialist partner in: Architecture & Interior Design Recruitment | Urban Design & Planning Recruitment | Mechanical Engineering Recruitment | Electrical Engineering Recruitment | Structural Engineering Recruitment | Civil Engineering Recruitment | Acoustic Engineering Recruitment | Hydraulic Engineering Recruitment | ESD / Sustainability Engineering Recruitment | Fire Engineering Recruitment

Hint: It’s Not Just What You Know.

In today’s competitive market, attracting and keeping great talent in Architecture, Interior Design, Planning, and Engineering has become a serious challenge. When job ads start to blur together and counteroffers are flying, what really makes a professional choose your business over another? The answer often lies in two key areas: your Employer Brand and your Employee Value Proposition (EVP) . What is Employer Branding? From an HR perspective, your Employer Brand is your reputation as a workplace. It’s the way your current employees, potential hires, and even competitors perceive your business. Think of it as your internal identity made visible to the world — what you stand for, how you treat your people, and why someone would want to work for you. A strong Employer Brand doesn’t just help you attract talent. It also improves retention, engagement, and even productivity. When employees genuinely believe in your purpose and culture, they’re far more likely to stay and grow with you. What is an EVP, and Why Does It Matter? Your EVP ( Employee Value Proposition ) is the unique mix of benefits, culture, and career experiences that employees receive in return for their skills and contribution. It’s the promise you make to your people — and how you deliver on it every day. It’s not just about salary or perks. A well-defined EVP reflects what’s authentic to your business and resonates with the kind of people you want to attract. In a market like Architecture, Design, Planning, and Engineering, where talent is often driven by creativity, innovation, and purpose, a strong EVP can be the deciding factor between a “maybe” and a “yes”. What We’re Hearing from Candidates At Vivid Recruitment, we’re on the ground every day, speaking with candidates across Australia. That means we know what’s actually driving career moves — not just what’s written in HR reports. Aside from salary, the top reasons candidates tell us they’re open to new opportunities include: Company culture — genuine, supportive environments where collaboration and respect are part of the day-to-day. Career development — opportunities for professional growth, mentorship, and progression. Flexibility — not just remote work, but trust around hours outside of the core 9.30am–4pm window. Ambition and project diversity — access to challenging, complex, and innovative projects. Work-from-home options — even one or two days a week makes a big difference. Leadership development — clear guidance, feedback, and learning opportunities. Stability — especially important in a market that’s still balancing uncertainty and opportunity. Building an EVP That Works — Big and Small The key to a strong EVP is authenticity. It should reflect who you really are, not who you think candidates want you to be. Here’s how different types of businesses can bring it to life: For Tier 1 firms: Structured leadership programs and mentorship pathways. Defined career progression frameworks. Opportunities to work on landmark or complex national projects. International mobility or inter-office collaboration. Comprehensive wellbeing and professional development budgets. For small or boutique studios: A close-knit, collaborative culture where every voice is heard. Flexibility around working hours and hybrid arrangements. Exposure to diverse project stages and direct client contact. Creative autonomy and space to innovate. Recognition, visibility, and direct access to leadership. In short, Tier 1s may offer structure, while smaller practices often win on culture and flexibility. Both can attract top talent when their EVP feels genuine and clearly communicated. The Bottom Line In a market where talented professionals can afford to be selective, a strong Employer Brand and clear EVP aren’t just “nice to have” — they’re essential. They tell your story, showcase your culture, and prove why someone should build their future with you. And when those messages align with what candidates actually value, that’s when the magic happens. At Vivid Recruitment, we spend our days talking to the people you want to hire. We know what’s resonating, what’s changing, and what truly sets an employer apart. If you’d like help defining or communicating your EVP to attract the right talent, we’d love to chat. Contact the Team Get in touch with our guys to help you out. Contact: Nicholas Koop , Principal Recruitment Consultant, Engineering - 📲 0426 180 254 📧 nick@vividrecruitment.com.au Lee Stevens , Principal Recruitment Consultant, Architecture, Design, Planning - 📲 0406 470 020 📧 lee@vividrecruitment.com.au You can also connect with Lee on LinkedIn and Nick on LinkedIn or follow the Vivid Recruitment LinkedIn page for more industry insights, news, jobs and general chit chat and tips! Vivid Recruitment - Your specialist partner in: Architecture & Interior Design Recruitment | Urban Design & Planning Recruitment | Mechanical Engineering Recruitment | Electrical Engineering Recruitment | Structural Engineering Recruitment | Civil Engineering Recruitment | Acoustic Engineering Recruitment | Hydraulic Engineering Recruitment | ESD / Sustainability Engineering Recruitment | Fire Engineering Recruitment

Australia’s built environment and design sectors continue to evolve in 2025, offering opportunities for professionals across architecture jobs in Australia, planning careers, interior design roles, and engineering jobs. At Vivid Recruitment , we’ve analysed the latest trends to help both candidates and employers navigate this dynamic market. Whether you’re searching for architecture recruitment Australia or exploring engineering recruitment opportunities, understanding these sector trends is essential for career planning and talent acquisition. Construction and Infrastructure Trends The Australian construction industry is expected to maintain steady growth in 2025. Government infrastructure projects, including roads, rail, and renewable energy facilities, are creating demand for skilled professionals. For those seeking civil engineering careers or project management roles , regional areas are particularly active, thanks to accelerated infrastructure development outside major cities. While rising material costs and supply chain delays remain a challenge, the demand for experienced professionals remains strong. Architecture and Design Opportunities Architectural firms are adjusting to shorter project pipelines, often forecasting work just 2–4 months ahead . There is an increasing emphasis on sustainable architecture and modular design solutions , driven by client preferences and regulatory requirements. Specialists in Building Information Modelling (BIM) , sustainability, and modular projects are highly sought after. Firms are also embracing technology to improve workflow efficiency and collaboration, making this an exciting time for professionals pursuing architecture jobs in Australia . Planning and Urban Development Urban planners are seeing strong demand, particularly in metropolitan areas experiencing rapid growth. Projects focusing on zoning, land use, environmental planning, and smart city initiatives are creating opportunities for professionals in planning careers Australia-wide . Those with expertise in policy development, urban renewal, and sustainable planning are in high demand as local and state governments invest in infrastructure and livable communities. Interior Design Trends The interior design sector is experiencing a resurgence, with increasing demand for interior design jobs in commercial, hospitality, and wellness-focused projects. Designers are integrating flexible, sustainable, and biophilic design solutions in response to evolving workplace and lifestyle trends. Candidates with experience in commercial fit-outs, hospitality interiors, and sustainable design are particularly sought after across Australia’s major cities. Engineering Recruitment Insights Engineering roles remain in high demand, especially in civil , structural , environmental , and renewable energy engineering jobs . The push for infrastructure, sustainability, and smart city solutions is driving this growth. Engineers with skills in project delivery, design engineering, and digital modelling are highly sought after, offering strong opportunities for those pursuing engineering careers in Australia. Job Market Overview – September 2025 Unemployment Rate: Australia’s unemployment remains stable at 4.2%, highlighting a balanced labour market. Job Postings: SEEK reports indicate an increase in job advertisements across architecture, planning, interior design, and engineering roles, reflecting optimism within the sector. Sector Trends: While the banking and finance sector is adjusting to digital-first strategies, demand for professionals in construction, design, and technology remains strong. Global Perspective Comparing Australia to other markets: United States: Unemployment is 4.3%, with moderate job growth offset by layoffs. Eurozone: Business activity is at a 16-month high, but employment is stagnant. United Kingdom: Inflation averages 3.5%, impacting workforce stability. This highlights Australia’s relative stability, offering a strong environment for professionals seeking architecture, interior design , planning and engineering jobs . Looking Ahead The Australian built environment job market remains resilient. Whether you’re seeking architecture jobs in Australia , looking for top engineering talent , or exploring planning and interior design careers , staying informed about market trends is key. At Vivid Recruitment , we specialise in connecting professionals with the right opportunities across architecture, planning, interior design, and engineering sectors. Our team helps both employers and candidates navigate this evolving market efficiently. Contact the Team Get in touch with our guys to help you out. Contact: Nicholas Koop , Principal Recruitment Consultant, Engineering - 📲 0426 180 254 📧 nick@vividrecruitment.com.au Lee Stevens , Principal Recruitment Consultant, Architecture, Design, Planning - 📲 0406 470 020 📧 lee@vividrecruitment.com.au You can also connect with Lee on LinkedIn and Nick on LinkedIn or follow the Vivid Recruitment LinkedIn page for more industry insights, news, jobs and general chit chat and tips!

In today’s highly competitive job market, attracting and retaining top talent is no easy task. Organisations across engineering , architecture , interior design , and urban and town planning are seeking innovative methods to secure the best candidates. One increasingly effective approach is retained recruitment —a model that fosters stronger partnerships, delivers better outcomes, and elevates the candidate experience. At Vivid Recruitment , we specialise in retained recruitment for architecture and interior design , engineering and planning roles across Australia. By combining deep industry knowledge with a tailored, consultative approach, we help clients and candidates achieve long-term success. What is Retained Recruitment? Retained recruitment is a premium hiring service where a client engages a recruitment agency exclusively to fill a role, paying an upfront fee for a dedicated search. Unlike contingent recruitment—where multiple agencies compete and only get paid when a candidate is placed—retained recruitment ensures total focus, commitment, and strategic alignment. With Vivid Recruitment, retained recruitment means: A dedicated recruitment partner with expertise in engineering, architecture, interior design, and planning. A bespoke hiring strategy aligned with your business goals. End-to-end support , from market insights to placement. Benefits for Clients Dedicated Focus and Expertise When partnering with Vivid Recruitment on a retained basis, clients gain access to specialist recruiters who understand the nuances of the architecture, engineering, design, and planning industries. Our team knows the skills, qualifications, and cultural fit required for each role—delivering results faster and more effectively. Quality Over Quantity We prioritise quality candidates over sheer volume. Each professional is thoroughly vetted, ensuring clients only meet the best possible matches. This reduces the risk of bad hires and streamlines the recruitment process. Comprehensive Market Insights Vivid Recruitment equips clients with up-to-date market intelligence, including salary benchmarks, competitor activity, and hiring trends. These insights empower businesses to make informed decisions and remain competitive in attracting top-tier talent. Enhanced Candidate Experience Candidates engaged through retained recruitment enjoy a seamless, professional process with clear communication and feedback. This reflects positively on your employer brand and positions your organisation as an employer of choice. Long-Term Partnerships Working with Vivid Recruitment on a retained basis builds long-lasting trust. We take the time to understand your culture, values, and growth trajectory—making each hire more aligned with your business vision. Benefits for Candidates Candidates benefit just as much from retained recruitment: Clear and consistent communication from our dedicated consultants. Access to exclusive opportunities , including roles not publicly advertised. Personalised career guidance , from CV optimisation to interview preparation. A perception of working with employers who are committed to finding the right fit—not just filling a role. By partnering with Vivid Recruitment, candidates gain a trusted advocate who champions their career journey across the engineering , architecture , design , and planning sectors . Benefits for Recruiters For recruiters at Vivid Recruitment, retained recruitment provides the foundation for stronger, more impactful partnerships: Stability and focus through an upfront fee structure. Higher job satisfaction , as we invest in quality candidate searches. Deeper client relationships , positioning us as trusted advisors. Enhanced reputation as industry specialists in retained recruitment. Why Choose Vivid Recruitment for Retained Recruitment? As experts in engineering, architecture, interior design, and town planning recruitment, we understand the skills shortage challenges facing these industries. Our retained recruitment service provides the strategic edge organisations need to secure high-calibre professionals. Whether you’re a global consultancy, design studio, or local council , Vivid Recruitment has the expertise and network to connect you with the right talent—quickly, effectively, and with a personalised touch. Conclusion Retained recruitment is more than a hiring strategy—it’s a long-term investment in your organisation’s success. By partnering with Vivid Recruitment, you gain access to industry specialists, exclusive candidate networks, and market-leading insights across architecture, engineering, interior design, and planning . In a market where talent is the ultimate differentiator, retained recruitment ensures you attract the best professionals while elevating the candidate experience and strengthening your employer brand. Ready to secure your next key hire with confidence? Contact Vivid Recruitment today to discuss how retained recruitment can transform your hiring strategy. Contact the Team Looking for a new hire? Get in touch with our guys to help you out. Contact: Nicholas Koop , Principal Recruitment Consultant, Engineering - 📲 0426 180 254 📧 nick@vividrecruitment.com.au Lee Stevens , Principal Recruitment Consultant, Architecture, Design, Planning - 📲 0406 470 020 📧 lee@vividrecruitment.com.au You can also connect with Lee on LinkedIn and Nick on LinkedIn or follow the Vivid Recruitment LinkedIn page for more industry insights, news, jobs and general chit chat and tips!