Artificial Intelligence (AI) is everywhere in 2026 — in headlines, in pitch decks, and increasingly in the tools used across Architecture , Engineering , Planning and Construction . But beyond the buzzwords, professionals in the built environment are asking a more grounded question: Is AI actually useful, or is it being overhyped? The honest answer? It’s both — depending on how it’s used. How AI Is Being Used in Architecture and Engineering AI in the built environment isn’t about robots designing cities (not yet, anyway). Instead, it’s quietly becoming a support tool that enhances — rather than replaces — human expertise. We’re seeing AI used in areas such as: Concept design support through generative design tools Data analysis for site planning, environmental modelling and performance testing Clash detection and coordination in BIM workflows Energy modelling and sustainability optimisation Automation of repetitive documentation tasks For engineers and designers under time pressure, these tools can reduce manual workload and improve efficiency — particularly in early-stage design and technical coordination. Where AI Is Genuinely Adding Value When used well, AI helps professionals: 1. Work Faster on Repetitive Tasks Documentation, modelling iterations, and data-heavy processes are ideal for AI-assisted workflows. This frees up time for higher-value work like design thinking, problem-solving, and client engagement. 2. Test More Options, Earlier Generative and analytical tools allow teams to explore more design variations and performance scenarios early in a project — leading to better-informed decisions. 3. Improve Sustainability Outcomes AI-driven analysis can support energy modelling, daylight optimisation, and environmental performance testing, helping projects meet increasingly strict sustainability targets. Where AI Is Still Overhyped Despite the benefits, AI is not a silver bullet. 1. It Doesn’t Replace Experience AI can suggest options — but it doesn’t understand context, buildability, client politics, or regulatory nuance. Professional judgement remains critical. 2. It Can’t Own Responsibility Design accountability still sits with qualified professionals. AI can assist, but it cannot take liability for design decisions. 3. It Doesn’t Fix Poor Processes Firms with unclear workflows or inconsistent standards won’t magically improve by layering AI on top. Technology amplifies process — good or bad. The Skills Shift Happening in 2026 AI isn’t removing the need for Architects, Planners and Engineers — but it is changing the skill mix. Employers are increasingly valuing professionals who can: Work confidently with digital tools and evolving tech Interpret data and outputs critically Combine technical knowledge with communication and collaboration skills Adapt as tools and workflows continue to evolve In short, AI literacy is becoming a complementary skill , not a replacement for core technical expertise. What This Means for Employers For employers across Architecture, Planning and Engineering, AI presents both opportunity and risk. Firms that are benefiting most are: Investing in training, not just software Encouraging experimentation in low-risk environments Being realistic about what AI can and can’t do Using AI to support teams, not reduce them The narrative that AI will replace large portions of the workforce hasn’t matched what we’re seeing on the ground. Instead, it’s reshaping how work is done — and who adapts best. What This Means for Candidates For candidates, especially mid-level and senior professionals, the message is clear: You don’t need to be an AI specialist — but being comfortable working alongside AI-driven tools is quickly becoming an advantage. Demonstrating curiosity, adaptability, and digital confidence is increasingly valuable in the 2026 job market. So… Useful Tool or Overhyped? AI in the built environment is neither a miracle solution nor meaningless hype. It’s a powerful support tool — one that improves efficiency, expands analysis, and helps teams make better decisions — but only when guided by experienced professionals with strong judgement. The future of the industry isn’t AI vs humans. It’s AI with humans — and the firms and professionals who understand that balance will be the ones who thrive. FAQ: AI in Architecture, Engineering and Planning Is AI replacing Architects, Planners and Engineers? No. AI is being used as a support tool to improve efficiency and analysis, but professional judgement, design responsibility and client communication remain human-led. How is AI used in the built environment? AI is used in generative design, BIM coordination, energy modelling, environmental analysis, and automating repetitive documentation tasks. Do employers expect AI skills in 2026? Employers increasingly value digital confidence and adaptability. While deep AI expertise isn’t required for most roles, being comfortable with evolving design technology is a strong advantage. Is AI making projects faster? In many cases, yes — particularly in early-stage design exploration and data-heavy analysis. However, AI doesn’t remove the need for quality control, coordination, or decision-making. Should candidates be learning AI tools? Familiarity with emerging tools can strengthen a candidate’s profile, especially in Architecture, Planning and Engineering roles where digital workflows are evolving rapidly. Contact the Team Looking for a job? Get in touch with our guys to help you out. Nicholas Koop , Principal Recruitment Consultant, Engineering & Planning - 📲 0426 180 254 📧 nick@vividrecruitment.com.au Lee Stevens , Principal Recruitment Consultant, Architecture & Design - 📲 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

Flexible work is no longer a “nice to have” in the built environment — but in 2026, it’s also no longer a free-for-all. WFH (work from home) isn’t the same as flexible work, though the two are often lumped together. Understanding the difference is key for both candidates and employers: WFH (Work From Home): Refers specifically to working remotely, either part-time or full-time, away from the office. Flexible Work: Refers to how, when, and sometimes where work is done , regardless of location. Examples include: Flexible start and finish times Compressed hours or staggered lunch breaks Rotating office days or hybrid schedules Working at other national offices (for example, a Melbourne graduate working temporarily in the NZ office) Flexible work can exist without WFH , particularly in roles where in-office presence is critical for mentoring, project collaboration, and professional development — such as junior Architects or Engineers. In 2026, misalignment between WFH, flexible hours, and flexible locations is still one of the fastest ways to lose great talent. Flexible Work in 2026: More Than Just Location Over the past few years, flexibility has evolved beyond simply working from home. Candidates across Architecture , Planning and Engineering now expect: Clarity on WFH, flexible hours, and any location flexibility Autonomy and trust to manage their hours or workload Opportunities for professional development , even if working remotely or at a different office Employers , meanwhile, want: Collaboration and team cohesion Accountability and clear delivery Mentoring and skill development, particularly for junior staff Project continuity and client satisfaction The firms getting this right aren’t arguing extremes — they communicate expectations clearly and adapt arrangements based on role, seniority, project requirements, and sometimes location. Why Flexible Work Matters Without WFH Not every flexible arrangement requires working from home. In fact, for many junior roles: Being in-office supports mentoring, training, and skill development Real-time collaboration improves learning on complex projects Site visits and client interactions can’t always be done remotely Flexible arrangements can include working temporarily at another office to gain experience across projects or teams Flexibility, therefore, is more about when, how, and sometimes where work gets done — rather than simply WFH. Employers who adopt this mindset attract and retain talent while still supporting professional growth. The Firms Getting It Right Aren’t Arguing Extremes Successful employers in 2026: Clearly define when WFH is appropriate Offer flexible arrangements that suit both the role and the employee Include location flexibility where relevant Stick to what they promise Balance autonomy with mentoring, collaboration, and delivery Consistency and transparency — not maximum remote access — are the keys to success. Final Thoughts WFH and flexible work are related but distinct concepts. Understanding both and communicating them clearly are now among the most important aspects of attracting and retaining top talent in Architecture, Planning, and Engineering. So whether you’re hiring or considering your next move, the key question to ask is: What does flexible work actually look like in your world — with or without WFH? Frequently Asked Questions: WFH & Flexible Work in 2026 What’s the difference between WFH and flexible work? WFH refers specifically to working remotely. Flexible work refers to how, when, or where work is done — for example, staggered start times, compressed hours, working from another office, or flexible task management — regardless of whether it’s done at home or on-site. Can flexible work exist without WFH? Absolutely. Many Architecture and Engineering roles, especially for graduates, benefit from in-office collaboration. Flexible work might mean adjusting hours, rotating office days, or temporarily working at another national office while still requiring physical presence for learning, mentoring, and project collaboration. Why is location flexibility important? Location flexibility allows employees to work across different offices nationally or internationally, gain exposure to new projects, and broaden their experience. This is particularly useful in multi-office firms, where cross-office collaboration adds value to both employees and the organisation. How should employers balance WFH, flexible hours, and flexible locations? The most effective employers: Set clear expectations for each type of flexibility Tailor arrangements based on role, seniority, and project needs Communicate early and consistently Ensure junior staff still receive mentoring and on-site experience What do candidates look for in flexible work arrangements? Candidates want clarity, trust, and autonomy. They’re less concerned about whether they work from home every day and more concerned with how their work can fit into their life while still supporting career growth, including opportunities to work across offices. Can junior staff work from other offices or remotely? Yes, but often with structured arrangements. For example, a graduate might rotate between offices or spend some time WFH, but they’ll typically also spend dedicated time in-office to learn, collaborate, and gain project experience. Why is flexibility still a key factor in attracting talent in 2026? In a competitive market, flexibility remains one of the strongest drivers of attraction and retention. Candidates now see flexible work — including hours, WFH, and location flexibility — as a baseline expectation, not a perk. Employers who approach it thoughtfully are better positioned to secure high-quality, long-term hires.  What’s the biggest mistake companies make with WFH policies? The biggest mistake isn’t the policy itself — it’s inconsistency. Saying one thing during recruitment and delivering another once someone starts quickly erodes trust and damages employer brand . Contact the Team Looking for a job? Get in touch with our guys to help you out. Nicholas Koop , Principal Recruitment Consultant, Engineering - 📲 0426 180 254 📧 nick@vividrecruitment.com.au Lee Stevens , Principal Recruitment Consultant, Architecture & Design - 📲 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

Because interviews in 2026 should be a two-way conversation — not a one-sided interrogation.

By Vivid Recruitment – Specialists in Engineering, Architecture, Planning & Design

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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