Logo
AECOM

Senior Secure Spaces Architect

AECOM, San Diego, California, United States, 92189

Save Job

Company Description 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. 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.

Job Description The Senior 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 Secure 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 Architect will also provide strategic guidance, mentor junior staff, and contribute to business development efforts by supporting proposals and client engagement.

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 Officials and support the development of Construction Surveillance Plans (CSP).

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

Provide technical coordination with designers and contractors 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.

Client Engagement

Lead client engagement activities, manage team efforts for submittals, proposals, presentations, contract negotiation, and marketing communications.

Serve as the primary point of contact for Federal clients, providing expert guidance on secure space requirements and design solutions.

Facilitate client workshops, charrettes, and meetings to gather requirements and present designs.

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 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.

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.

Candidate Qualities

Strength in understanding of the customer and building type.

Strength in customer engagement, facility programming, leadership, and communications.

Strength in facility planning and space planning.

Understanding of secure networks, security zones, and access control.

Understanding of FF&E and its relationship to facility planning fundamentals.

Strong familiarity with ICD 705 and TEMPEST fundamentals and how they influence functional planning of secure facilities.

Qualifications 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

Master’s 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.

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.

Strong problem‑solving and decision‑making abilities.

Leadership skills to inspire and guide teams.

Additional Information

This position will not offer sponsorship now or in the future.

This position requires U.S. citizenship due to federal contract/security requirements.

Compensation The offered rate of compensation will be based on individual education, qualifications, experience, and work location, ranging from $140,000 to $180,000 per year.

Benefits AECOM offers comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability, paid time off, leaves of absence, 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.

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.

ReqID:

J10137232

#J-18808-Ljbffr