Lead the architectural design of secure facilities , including SCIFs, SAPFs, and classified environments , in compliance with ICD ‑705, UFCs, DoD, and agency ‑specific standards
Translate mission needs and threat profiles into compliant, functional building layouts and secure adjacencies
Balance stringent security requirements with adaptable, high‑performance design solutions
Technical Leadership & Accreditation Support
Serve as a technical advisor to Federal clients and Accrediting Officials
Support Construction Surveillance Plans (CSPs) , accreditation documentation, and secure design reviews
Integrate requirements related to physical security systems, secure zones, RF shielding, acoustics, and TEMPEST
Collaboration & Mentorship
Coordinate across multidisciplinary teams to deliver fully integrated, compliant design solutions
Lead client meetings, design charrettes, technical workshops, and internal reviews
Mentor junior staff and contribute to a culture of technical excellence and collaboration
Strategic Growth
Support Federal business development , proposal efforts, and client relationship development
Share expertise across the firm to strengthen secure design standards and delivery
What Sets You Apart
Strong command of secure facility workflows, risk ‑driven design, and Federal project delivery
Proven experience leading complex architectural efforts with senior Federal stakeholders
Deep familiarity with ICD ‑705, UFC 4 ‑010 ‑05 , and accreditation processes
Ability to lead with authority while navigating evolving security and mission requirements
Requirements
Bachelor's degree in Architecture and 8+ years of professional architectural experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education
Active Registered Architect (RA) license
U.S. citizenship required
Master's degree in Architecture
12+ years experience, including 5+ years designing secure Federal facilities
ICD ‑705 training certificate (completed within the last 5 years)
Experience supporting DoD or Intelligence Community clients
Active or recent Secret, TS, or TS/SCI clearance
Certifications such as Certified SCIF Designer or PSP
Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and BIM tools
Experience integrating sustainability and energy efficiency in secure environments
Sponsorship is not available , now or in the future
U.S. citizenship is mandatory due to Federal contract requirements
AECOM is seeking a Senior Secure Spaces Architect to lead the planning and design of highly secure, mission‑critical facilities for Federal and Intelligence Community clients. This role is well‑suited for a licensed architect who brings deep technical expertise, design leadership, and confidence navigating complex security requirements.
This position may be based in Denver, Chicago, Houston, San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento, Los Angeles, Seattle, Columbus, or Cleveland , with flexibility for other AECOM locations.
As an emerging subject matter expert, you will serve as both a project leader and trusted internal resource-helping elevate best practices and expand AECOM's secure facilities portfolio.
Aecom2 · Chicago, IL