Senior Associate, Architect; Secure Buildings - Government & Civic

Senior Associate, Architect (Secure Buildings) - Government & Civic

Arcadis is the world’s leading company delivering sustainable design, engineering, and consultancy solutions for natural and built assets. We are more than 36,000 people in over 70 countries, dedicated to improving quality of life. Everyone has an important role to play, and together we can solve the world’s most complex challenges.

Role description The Defence & Security (D&S) sector within our Architecture and Urbanism team is expanding. We are seeking a Senior Associate Architect with expertise in secure facilities to help drive our next phase of growth. This role will involve both client‑side design assurance and contractor‑side technical delivery, working across multi‑disciplinary teams on complex, secure projects in the UK and potentially overseas.

Site‑based working may be required. The role can be located in any Arcadis office within the UK.

Security Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check and meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is developed vetting. People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard checks.

Role accountabilities

• Lead the design and delivery of secure projects, acting as a subject‑matter expert within Arcadis.
• Utilise your existing network of defence sector clients and contacts to support growth with a focus on secure buildings, supporting strategic growth of secure building design and delivery in the defence sector.
• Engage directly with clients in a technical advisory position, providing clear, strategic design leadership and communicating complex solutions effectively.
• Form, manage, and maintain client relationships at a senior level, innovating by developing design solutions that enhance operational capabilities and the lived experience of end users.
• Support in the preparation of fee proposals and tender submissions through authoring responses to technical questions.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant security management protocols (Arcadis and client‑specific).
• Manage project programmes, budgets, and resource allocation to meet delivery targets.
• Mentor and develop team members, promoting a culture of continuous improvement and design excellence.

Qualifications & Experience

• RIBA Part 3 qualified and ARB registered.
• Demonstrable experience leading defence sector projects across all RIBA stages, including secure facilities.
• Strong working knowledge of Building Regulations and defence sector‑specific standards (e.g., NPSA, RIBA Security Overlay).
• DV clearance required.
• Proven leadership, organisational, and communication skills.
• A willingness to travel to client sites across the UK and potentially overseas.

Why Arcadis? We believe everyone’s contribution matters and we empower teams to deliver meaningful work, sustainable solutions, and lasting legacy. Join Arcadis and create a legacy.

Seniority level
:
Mid‑Senior level

Employment type
:
Full‑time

Job function
:
Other

Industries
:
Professional Services