Job Description
Classified environments demand strict security compliance, and senior architects solve this by designing facilities for federal clients that meet Intelligence Community Directive revisions. These professionals develop floor plans, elevations, and specifications for SCIFs, SAPFs, and secure conference rooms using AutoCAD and Revit. Clients such as the Department of Defense benefit from integrated physical security like access control and acoustic protection.
AECOM partners with clients to solve complex challenges in infrastructure, delivering projects worldwide as a Fortune 500 firm with $16.1 billion in fiscal 2024 revenue. Over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, and specialists work on water, environment, energy, transportation, and buildings. They deliver solutions using technologies in BIM and sustainable energy efficiency.
Architects lead design and construction surveillance plans for secure spaces, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and accrediting officials using ICD 705, UFC 4-010-05, and RF shielding standards. They conduct reviews, assess risk, and ensure facility certification handling single-story to multi-story buildings. Components include adding TAB security plans and coordinating with security consultants on intrusion detection and TEMPEST. Professionals participate in proposals, presentations, and contract negotiations while mentoring junior staff and supporting marketing communications at industry events. Interacting with Federal agencies requires client workshops, charrettes, and accredited official reports. Business development includes identifying growth in federal markets and presenting designs at conferences, with occasional travel to client sites.
Positions require a bachelor's in architecture, registered architect licensure, and 8 years of experience with 5 in secure facilities preferred, including master’s and ICD-705 training. Locations available in Denver, Chicago, Houston, San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento, Los Angeles, Seattle, Columbus, or Cleveland. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability, paid time off, voluntary benefits, well-being resources, employee assistance, travel insurance, recognition awards, retirement savings, and stock purchase.
Responsibilities
- Lead the architectural design of secure spaces, including SCIFs, SAPF, secure conference rooms, and other classified environments, in compliance with ICD-705, DoD standards, and client-specific requirements
- Develop detailed design documentation, including floor plans, elevations, and specifications, that meet security, operational, and aesthetic goals
- Provide technical coordination both on designs and contractor for acoustical and Radio Frequency (RF) shielding requirements in compliance with UFC 4-010-05 and ICD 705
- Collaborate with engineers, security consultants, and other disciplines to integrate physical security measures, such as access control, intrusion detection, and acoustic protection, into facility designs
- Conduct design reviews and oversee quality assurance to ensure adherence to Federal standards and project objectives
- Leads client engagement activities for assigned clients and assigned target clients
- Serve as the primary point of contact for Federal clients, providing expert guidance on secure space requirements and design solutions
- Develop new client relationships and maintain AECOM’s outstanding client reputation in the federal market
- Facilitate client workshops, charrettes, and meetings to gather requirements, present designs, and address feedback
- Build and maintain strong relationships with Federal agencies, contractors, and stakeholders to ensure project success and client satisfaction
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of ICD-705, Unified Facilities Criteria (UFC), and other relevant Federal standards
- Conduct security risk assessments and ensure that designs meet accreditation requirements for secure spaces
- Coordinate with security officers, accrediting officials, and other stakeholders to achieve facility certification and accreditation
- Support Federal business development efforts by contributing to proposals, presentations, and marketing materials related to secure space design
- Identify opportunities for growth in the Federal marketplace and provide strategic input on pursuits and partnerships
- Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and client briefings to showcase expertise in secure facility design
- Mentor junior architects and staff, providing technical guidance and professional development opportunities
- Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence within the design team
Requirements
- Bachelor’s in Architecture from an accredited institution
- Professional licensure as a Registered Architect (RA)
- U.S. citizenship due to federal contract/security requirements
- 8 years of related experience
- Master’s degree in Architecture (preferred)
- 12 years of architectural experience, with at least 5 years focused on designing secure facilities for Federal clients
- ICD-705 Training Certificate within the last five years
- Demonstrated expertise in ICD-705 compliance and the design of SCIFs and other classified environments
- Experience working with Federal agencies such as the Department of Defense (DoD), Intelligence Community (IC), or other classified clients
- Proven track record of leading multidisciplinary teams and delivering complex projects on time and within budget
- Certification in security-related disciplines (e.g., Certified SCIF Designer, PSP, or similar) (preferred)
- Active or recently held security clearance (Secret, TS, or TS/SCI) (preferred)
- Experience with sustainability and energy efficiency in secure facility design (preferred)
- Knowledge of emerging technologies and trends in secure environments, such as AI-driven security systems and modular SCIFs (preferred)
- Proficiency in architectural design software, including AutoCAD, Revit, and BIM tools
- Strong understanding of physical security systems, acoustic protection, and technical security countermeasures
- Familiarity with Federal procurement processes, including FAR/DFARS, and experience supporting proposals
- Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex ideas to diverse audiences
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities, with a focus on client satisfaction and project success
- Leadership skills to inspire and guide teams, foster collaboration, and drive innovation