Senior Secure Spaces Architect

Company Description

At AECOM, we are delivering a better world by improving commutes, ensuring reliable power, providing clean water, and transforming skylines. As the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, we partner with clients to solve complex challenges and build legacies for future generations. With over 50,000 professionals worldwide, we deliver projects that create a tangible positive impact.

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 locations may be considered.

The Secure Spaces Architect will lead the design, development, and delivery of secure facilities for Federal clients, ensuring compliance with Intelligence Community Directive 705 and related standards. The role demands deep expertise in Secure Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIFs), Special Access Program Facilities (SAPFs), secure communications centers, and other classified environments.

• Design Leadership
  • Lead the architectural design of secure spaces, including SCIFs, SAPFs, secure conference rooms, and other classified environments in compliance with ICD‑705, DoD standards, and client requirements.
  • Develop detailed design documentation—floor plans, elevations, specifications—meeting security, operational, and aesthetic goals.
  • Coordinate acoustical and RF shielding requirements with designers and contractors, adhering to UFC 4‑010‑05 and ICD‑705.
  • Integrate physical security measures (access control, intrusion detection, acoustic protection) into facility designs.
  • Conduct design reviews and oversee quality assurance to ensure adherence to Federal standards and project objectives.
• Client Engagement
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for Federal clients, providing expert guidance on secure space requirements.
  • Lead client workshops, charrettes, and meetings to gather requirements, present designs, and address feedback.
  • Identify opportunities for new proposals and manage submittals, presentations, contract negotiations, and marketing communications.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with Federal agencies, contractors, and stakeholders to ensure project success.
• Compliance and Standards
  • Maintain up‑to‑date knowledge of ICD‑705, Unified Facilities Criteria, 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 through 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.
• 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.

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

• 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 with Federal agencies such as the DoD, Intelligence Community, or other classified clients.
• Proven track record of leading multidisciplinary teams and delivering complex projects on time and within budget.
• Security-related certifications (e.g., Certified SCIF Designer, PSP) and a recent security clearance (Secret, TS, or TS/SCI).
• Knowledge of sustainability and energy…