Access Control Engineer

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AECOM is currently seeking an experienced Access Control Engineer to join our growing team in support of the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) in the Arlington, VA area.This position includes the engineering management of the Pro-Watch application.  This includes but not limited to the modification or creation of new hardware templates, clearance codes, maps, new sites, new channel, new panels, new logical devices, new interlocks, new  triggers and procedures, etc.

Responsibilities iclude but are not limited to: 

• Lead the design and engineering of enterprise access control and intrusion detection infrastructure, ensuring scalability, redundancy, and long-term system sustainability
• Develop system architecture, including controller topology, panel layouts, reader configurations, credential technologies
• Conduct detailed site surveys, threat assessments, and security risk analyses to determine infrastructure requirements and secure access point design
• Serves as lead engineer on mid- to large size project
• Provides specialized technical input to studies and design for staff's specific area of expertise
• Approves and signs off on work
• Participates in development of technical proposals
• Provides estimates for the engineering budget and schedule to meet requirements on large projects
• Produce comprehensive engineering deliverables, including technical drawings, wiring diagrams, riser diagrams, network schematics, and as-built documentation
• Specify and standardize hardware, software, power supplies, enclosures, and network components in alignment with performance, cybersecurity, and compliance requirements
• Design door hardware integration, fail-safe/fail-secure configurations, and life-safety interface requirements in coordination with fire alarm and life safety systems
• Design the integration with other systems like delayed egress crash bar systems, intercom systems, and fire alarm systems
• Support remotely and on the field the Physical Security team when they are installing new access control systems or troubleshooting existing field devices
• Testing new access control devices like card readers so they can be added to the access control or intrusion alarm specifications
• Ensure proper integration of access control systems with CCTV, visitor management, intrusion detection, identity management, and enterprise IT infrastructure
• Perform capacity planning, system performance modeling, and lifecycle management planning for multi-site or enterprise deployments
• Oversee installation, programming, configuration, testing, and commissioning activities to ensure adherence to engineered design standards
• Develop and maintain access control standards, specifications, preventive maintenance instructions manuals, standard drawings, design criteria, and infrastructure guidelines for new construction and retrofit projects
• Troubleshoot complex system and infrastructure issues, including panel communications, database integrity, network connectivity, and device-level failures
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, privacy standards, cybersecurity frameworks, and organizational security policies
• Provide technical leadership and coordination with contractors, architects, IT teams, and security stakeholders throughout the design and implementation lifecycle
• Provides technical expertise for studies and design efforts
• Presents complex technical solutions to clients
• Performs quality control reviews of work developed by others

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelors Degree in Engineering, Science, Technology fields, or equivalent plus 8 years of related experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education
• Valid U.S Driver’s License required to visit project sites, clients, and other AECOM offices. As a condition of employment, selected candidate must pass a Motor Vehicle Records review
• Due to the projects associated with the position a US Citizenship is required
• Knowledge of access control platforms (e.g., Pro-Watch, Lenel, Genetec, Software House, Avigilon, or similar).  
• Experience with IP-based systems, network infrastructure (TCP/IP, PoE, switches), and structured cabling
• Ability to read and develop technical drawings and system schematics using AutoCAD
• Experience with system commissioning, diagnostics, and troubleshooting

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Industry certifications (e.g., Pro-Watch, Lenel Certified Professional, Genetec Certification, CCNA, BICSI)
• Experience with enterprise-level or multi-site deployments
• Knowledge of relevant building codes, life safety standards, ADA standards, and data privacy regulations
• Project management experience or PMP certification. (PE certification is more important)
• Intrusion alarms systems design certification
• Understanding of cybersecurity principles related to physical security systems
• Able to work night shifts occasionally, as required, with the possibility of weekend work

Sponsorship for US employment authorization is not available now or in the future for this position

Relocation is not available for this position

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community—where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.