Design Architect in London

Company Overview: A leading smart building technology integrator with a long-standing presence in the built environment sector. The organisation delivers integrated, future-focused building technology solutions and support services that enable sustainable growth, operational efficiency, and long-term value for clients across multiple sectors. The company places strong emphasis on innovation, professional development, and collaborative working practices. Employees are supported through continuous learning, autonomous working, and a culture built on trust, shared values, and technical excellence.

Job Summary: The Security Systems Design Architect is responsible for developing security designs from tender-stage concepts into fully coordinated, buildable project deliverables. The role requires strong technical knowledge of electronic security systems and experience working within design-and-build project environments.

Responsibilities include developing and coordinating electronic security solutions across:

• Video Surveillance (CCTV)
• Access Control
• Intercoms
• Intruder Alarms
• Perimeter Detection Systems

The role also involves producing technical documentation, managing design compliance, supporting cost variations, and engaging directly with clients and project stakeholders throughout the delivery lifecycle. The position involves collaboration across multiple project sectors, including enterprise, residential, hospitality, and data centre environments.

Location: London

Key Tasks and Responsibilities:

• Develop security system designs based on tender-stage proposals.
• Take ownership of security design deliverables following contract award.
• Produce detailed technical designs compliant with relevant standards and codes of practice.
• Prepare detailed design documentation, bills of materials (BOM), and labour requirements.
• Produce technical submittals, RFIs, and variation costings.
• Review and validate submitted technical information prior to approval.
• Support smooth transition from design to delivery, ensuring operational compliance.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance on electronic security matters within the design team.

Relationship Management:

• Maintain professional relationships with manufacturers, suppliers, and delivery partners.
• Liaise with bid and procurement teams to ensure clarity on scope, costs, and design intent.
• Attend internal project kick-off meetings and capture design requirements and constraints.

Client Interaction and Workshops:

• Attend client meetings and technical presentations as required.
• Lead and participate in design workshops to define security requirements and implementation strategies.
• Respond to technical queries throughout the project lifecycle.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Create and maintain technical and commercial documentation templates.
• Update project costings and BOMs to reflect design changes and variations.

Team Support and Development:

• Provide specialist technical support to colleagues.
• Coach and mentor team members in security systems design best practices.
• Support the Design Development Manager in achieving project and team objectives.

Qualifications:

Essential:

• Minimum five GCSEs (or equivalent) including Maths or English.
• Valid DBS check.

Desirable:

• Manufacturer accreditations and/or relevant professional memberships within the security industry.

Essential:

• Proven experience in security systems design roles.
• Experience designing electronic security systems integrated within smart building environments.
• Familiarity with leading security manufacturers and platforms (e.g. CCTV, access control, PSIM, intercom systems).
• Experience working on enterprise, campus, or data centre security projects.

Desirable:

• Awareness of AV systems, ICT infrastructure, IoT, and wired/wireless network architectures.