Fixed Term contract 23 months.

Have you ever thought about developing your career as an architect with an organisation that operates on a global scale to deliver a first-class service for the UK government and our international partners? A career where you’ll work on new builds and the refurbishment of diplomatic and government buildings around the world. A career where you’ll work on some iconic and unique buildings, and experience the construction industry in a broad range of cultures. If you’re looking for your job, but bigger, this could be your next move.

As a trusted government partner we work on a huge range of projects, and help protect the UK’s interests around the world. We design and construct secure government buildings. We help earthquake-proof embassies. We courier diplomatic packages across continents. We keep complex projects on track, and on budget. We store visa applications securely in the Cloud. And a whole lot more besides. It’s exciting work – and you could play a vital part as you take on a role that supports the success of our property and construction operation.

Work on a huge range of building projects around the world

As a key member of a team of 15 that includes architects, interior designers and technical experts, you’ll work closely with our structural engineers, quantity surveyors and mechanical and electrical engineers as you engage with clients and project sponsors. Developing briefs and project requirements, your work will involve giving professional advice, undertaking surveys, producing design solutions, drawings and specifications of work, producing tender documents and managing the performance of on-site contractors.

Your initial job will involve working on a large project producing packages under the supervision of a senior architect, and in addition to this you’ll provide mentoring and coaching to trainees and junior staff. You’ll also be expected to liaise with customers and stakeholders at a senior level, including Ambassadors, Deputy Heads of Missions, High Commissioners and Security Managers, and incorporate their requirements into any designs you produce.

Use all your practical skills to make a real difference

Your overseas postings – sometimes to fragile states – will be on a project-by-project basis, so you’ll have a flexible approach to your work as there is often a need to react, sometimes at short notice, to the changing needs and events that impact on our overseas estate. Enthusiastic and full of initiative, and with the ability to collaborate, innovate and learn, your previous experience should include working on a drawing package at RIBA stages 3-4.

As an ARB registered architect with significant practical post-qualification experience including RIBA Stages 3 and 4, you’ll have strong technical skills in 2D and 3D packages including CAD, Revit, Photoshop, InDesign and the Microsoft Office suite of software, and good knowledge of NBS with the ability to produce schedules relating to doors, windows, lighting, sanitary ware etc. Capable of running projects both independently and as part of a team, you’ll also be a brilliant communicator, planner and organiser, and capable of prioritising your work while focusing on the finer details. Foreign language skills would be an advantage, as would knowledge of NEC contract, design and build procurement.

Grow your career in the biggest way possible

When you join us, you’ll be contributing to protecting the nation’s interests at home and overseas. How will we help you in return? We offer a competitive salary, 25-30 days’ annual leave per year (depending on length of service) and a Civil Service pension. This role offers a superb range of insights into the world of international property and construction, and you’ll have access to a wide range of training and development opportunities. While in the office you’ll have access to a discounted gym, nursery and coffee shop, and we offer interest-free loans on season tickets and bikes to help you get there. Above all else, we can offer your job, bigger. As one of our architects, you’ll be working on projects that help us protect people, information and assets around the world. Using your skills in a way that just means more.

Every single colleague must be security cleared before joining us. If you’re successful in your application, we’ll ask you to undergo our vetting process to achieve Security Check (SC) clearance. You can find out more about vetting on our website: https://www.fcdoservicescareers.co.uk/how-to-apply/

To find out more about us and what a career with FCDO Services can offer you, please visit: fcdoservicescareers.co.uk

It takes a diverse team to protect a diverse world

The vital work we do takes an incredible community of colleagues, with different skills, backgrounds, cultures and identities. We support every individual, so that you always know you’re welcome and valued. It’s what makes us a Disability Confident employer. And why we’re recognised as a ‘Carer Confident’ workplace. And it’s how you know you’re joining an inspiring, inclusive organisation.

London based posts attract a Location Allowance of £5,000 per annum.

FCDO Services are regulated by the Civil Service Commission.