At FCDO Services we protect the UK’s interests at home and overseas. We design and construct secure government buildings and courier diplomatic packages worldwide, safeguard government tech and a whole lot more. Our work is as varied and vital as it gets, but we never lose sight of our people. Their skills, aspirations and growth mean as much as the global mission we’re on. In our world, it all matters.
Designing and building brand-new embassies in bustling cities and remote locations. Collaborating with architects, engineers and surveyors to design and reconfigure a high commission’s office space. Developing a secure site’s new CCTV System. This work is as varied and as vital as it gets. Now you’ve got the opportunity to join them.
Designing and building embassies.
Providing a world-class service.
Protect the UK’s security interests.
It all matters.
Design the bespoke spaces that keep our clients safe and secure
When you join our highly professional and collaborative property and construction team, it will be your job to produce bespoke, detailed and fully coordinated designs and specifications for internal fit-out spaces. Working alongside clients in the FCDO, other UK Government departments and with customers in friendly foreign governments, you’ll have a strong focus on ensuring your designs guarantee building security while maintaining compliance with specialist requirements. In addition, we’ll expect your designs to be risk-free and provide the relevant health and safety information to ensure the correct working practices are followed.
With opportunities for occasional overseas travel to conduct site surveys, you will lead designs from concept development through to completion, playing a key role in delivering innovative and effective solutions for our clients.
Your day-to-day work will include communicating with delivery and installation teams to confirm that technical solutions are developed in accordance with your designs, and providing quality assurance to ensure all work meets the relevant legal and regulatory requirements. We’ll also expect you to advise on the resolution of any technical issues that arise, help to create next generation design standards and products, and produce and maintain a knowledge library of documentation for installation practices and standards.
Use all your specialist design skills as you help to protect the UK’s interests
To be a success in this important role you should have a detailed understanding of common construction standards, installation practices and applicable legislation, and formal technical qualifications at BTEC/HNC level. It goes without saying that you’ll have well developed experience of designing the basic elements of buildings and spaces, and any knowledge of secure construction and physical security design would be desirable, as would an understanding of design-related software such as AutoCAD and Revit.
Capable of producing technical design documentation, including drawings, specifications and programmes, you should be ready to conduct site surveys, both in the UK and overseas, and capture as-built details in a professional report. You’ll be working with a diverse range of clients and stakeholders, so we’ll look for excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and any practical line management experience would be an advantage. In addition, the successful completion of a construction-related health and safety course such as NEBOSH construction certificate, SMSTS/IOSH or similar would be a plus.
Discover the support you need to grow your career further
But we’re always looking to improve – just like you. That’s why when you join us, expect to receive a competitive salary, generous holiday entitlement and a Civil Service Pension. Along with this, you’ll also have access to training and other development opportunities to help grow your career with us. Our offices have an on-site gym, nursery, café, and restaurant, and we offer interest-free loans on season tickets and bikes to help you get there. It's a great set of benefits made to support all you do, and all you need.
Want to see your future team’s work in action? Step into our Virtual Embassy and select a guide to take you round to see how we deliver for government customers and how you could help. Explore the embassy now at virtual-embassy.fcdoservicescareers.co.uk
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 Developed Vetting (DV) clearance. You can find out more about vetting at fcdoservicescareers.co.uk/how-to-apply/
To find out more about our benefits and our organisation, 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.
We are looking for people with:
- Formal technical qualifications to BTEC/HNC level
- Experience in designing building elements (secure construction and physical security design experience advantageous)
- Experience of designing building elements, secure construction & physical security experience advantageous.
- Knowledge of Construction Design Management requirements
Construction Design Engineer in Milton Keynes employer: FCDO Services
As a Services Officer at Hanslope Park, Milton Keynes, you will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to supporting the UK's diplomatic efforts. The company offers a competitive salary package, generous pension contributions, and a strong commitment to employee development within a collaborative work culture that values public service. With opportunities for growth and a focus on meaningful work, this role is ideal for those seeking a rewarding career in the public sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Construction Design Engineer in Milton Keynes
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like FCDO Services, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to FCDO Services specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at FCDO Services
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with FCDO Services, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like FCDO Services value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.