Senior Secure Spaces Architect

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AECOM is searching for an experienced architect to be located at one of our main offices in the West Region – Denver, CO; Chicago, IL; Houston, TX; San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento, Los Angeles, CA; Seattle, WA ; Columbus, Cleveland, OH . Other AECOM office locations may be considered.

The Secure Spaces Architect will lead the design, development, and delivery of secure facilities for Federal clients, in compliance with Intelligence Community Directive (ICD) 705 and other applicable standards. This senior-level role requires a deep understanding of secure space requirements, including Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIFs) or Special Access Program Facility (SAPF), secure communications centers, and other classified environments. The Secured Spaces Architect will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, Federal agencies, and contractors to deliver innovative, compliant, and functional designs that meet the unique needs of secure operations.

As a subject matter expert, the Secure Spaces Architect will also provide strategic guidance, mentor junior staff, and contribute to business development efforts by supporting proposals and client engagement.

Key Responsibilities

Design Leadership

• 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.

• Collaborate with Accrediting Official (AO), and supports the development of Construction Surveillance Plans (CSP).

• Develop detailed design documentation, including floor plans, elevations, and specifications, that meet security, operational, and aesthetic goals.

• Provides technical coordination both in with designers and contractor for the design of 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. 

Client Engagement

• Leads client engagement activities for assigned clients and assigned target clients. Identifies opportunities and manages team efforts for submittals, proposals, presentations, contract negotiation, marketing communications, trade shows and related activities. Participates in go/no-go evaluations, may also include fee proposal develop, project workplan execution in collaboration with the regional director of operations.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for Federal clients, providing expert guidance on secure space requirements and design solutions.  Develops new client relationships and maintains 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. 

Compliance and Standards

• 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. 

Business Development

• 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. 

• Leads client engagement activities for assigned clients and assigned target clients. Identifies opportunities and manages team efforts for submittals, proposals, presentations, contract negotiation, marketing communications, trade shows and related activities. Participates in go/no-go evaluations, may also include fee proposal develop, project workplan execution in collaboration with the regional director of operations.

• Develops outstanding client relationships. Responsible for client satisfaction, representing AECOM while developing an outstanding reputation in the federal market.

Mentorship and Leadership

• Mentor junior architects and staff, providing technical guidance and professional development opportunities.

• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence within the design team. 

The best qualified candidate will embody these critical qualities:

• Strength in understanding of the customer and building type (need to understand how they work and how these buildings are organized)
• Strength in customer engagement, facility programming, leadership, communications
• Strength in facility planning and space planning (multi-disciplinary systems, utilities organization, etc.)
• Understanding of secure networks, security zones, and access control
• Understanding of FF&E and its relationship in concert with facility planning fundamentals
• At least a strong familiarity with ICD 705 and TEMPEST fundamentals and how they influence the functional planning of secure facilities

Minimum:

• Bachelor’s in Architecture from an accredited institution and 8 years of related experience
• Professional licensure as a Registered Architect (RA) is required. 
• This position requires U.S. citizenship due to federal contract/security requirements. 

Preferred:

• Masters degree in Architecture
• 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).
• Active or recently held security clearance (Secret, TS, or TS/SCI).
• Experience with sustainability and energy efficiency in secure facility design.
• Knowledge of emerging technologies and trends in secure environments, such as AI-driven security systems and modular SCIFs. 
• 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. 

• This position will not offer sponsorship now or in the future.
• This position requires U.S. citizenship due to federal contract/security requirements.

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 aecom.com. 

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.