Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Secure Spaces Architect 

at AECOM

🏢 About AECOM

AECOM is a globally recognized infrastructure consulting firm that delivers sustainable solutions for complex challenges. Working here means contributing to projects that enhance national security while advancing environmental stewardship and innovation.

About This Role

As a Senior Secure Spaces Architect, you will lead the design of top-secret facilities for federal clients, ensuring compliance with stringent security standards. This role offers the opportunity to shape critical infrastructure that protects national interests while mentoring the next generation of architects.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve reviewing design drawings for a new SCIF, leading a client meeting to discuss accreditation timelines, and mentoring junior architects on secure design principles. You'll also collaborate with structural and MEP engineers to integrate security features without compromising building performance.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who AECOM Is Looking For

  • A licensed architect with 10+ years of experience in secure facility design, specifically SCIFs and SAPFs, with a portfolio demonstrating ICD-705 and UFC compliance.
  • Deep familiarity with accreditation processes and the ability to navigate federal stakeholder relationships, including interactions with Accrediting Officials.
  • Proven track record of leading multidisciplinary teams and managing complex design charrettes for federal projects.
  • Excellent communication skills to articulate risk-driven design decisions and mentor junior staff effectively.

📝 Tips for Applying to AECOM

1

Highlight specific projects where you led secure facility design from concept through accreditation, quantifying outcomes (e.g., 'Designed a 10,000 SF SCIF that passed accreditation on first review').

2

Tailor your resume to explicitly mention ICD-705, UFC 4-010-05, and any agency-specific standards you've applied (e.g., DoD, Intelligence Community).

3

Include examples of your experience with Construction Surveillance Plans and how you coordinated with security teams during construction.

4

Demonstrate your business development acumen by describing how you contributed to winning federal contracts or proposals.

5

Prepare a portfolio that includes technical drawings, security overlays, and accreditation documentation samples (redacted as needed).

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Emphasize your deep technical expertise in ICD-705 and UFC standards, and how you've applied them to real-world projects.", 'Showcase your ability to lead client meetings and serve as a trusted advisor to federal stakeholders.', 'Highlight your experience mentoring junior staff and fostering collaborative team environments.', "Express enthusiasm for AECOM's commitment to sustainability and how secure design can integrate with green building practices."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review AECOM's recent federal projects, especially those involving secure facilities or national security clients.
  • → Understand AECOM's sustainability initiatives and how they align with secure design (e.g., energy-efficient SCIFs).
  • → Familiarize yourself with AECOM's organizational structure for the Federal business unit and key leaders.
  • → Look into AECOM's thought leadership on secure infrastructure and any white papers or webinars they've published.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk me through a time you had to resolve a conflict between security requirements and design aesthetics.
2 How do you stay current with evolving ICD-705 and UFC standards?
3 Describe your experience with the accreditation process for a SCIF or SAPF.
4 How would you approach designing a secure facility in a LEED-certified building?
5 Tell me about a time you mentored a junior architect on secure design principles.
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Failing to demonstrate specific knowledge of ICD-705 and UFC 4-010-05, or using generic security terms without depth.
  • Not providing concrete examples of leading projects through accreditation; vague descriptions weaken your application.
  • Overlooking the importance of business development; this role requires client-facing skills and proposal support.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to AECOM!

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