Security Design Manager, DOS Diplomatic Security

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Security Design Manager, DOS Diplomatic Security

Company: Dexis

Location: Washington, District of Columbia, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Security Operations & GTM Strategy (with a focus on technical security design and compliance for diplomatic facilities)

Date Posted: March 03, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site (Situational Telework Permitted)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead technical security design review and standards compliance initiatives for U.S. diplomatic facilities, ensuring protection against technical surveillance threats and compromising emanations.

• Manage and train a team of design review engineers and staff to ensure timely and accurate delivery of security design submissions.

• Develop and refine technical security standards, with a specific focus on Overseas Security Policy Board (OSPB) standards for new and renovated diplomatic compounds.

• Perform vulnerability assessments and provide expert guidance on physical and technical security principles to protect Department facilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for ensuring the physical and technical security of U.S. diplomatic missions abroad, requiring a deep understanding of security design principles, compliance frameworks, and team leadership within a government contracting environment. The focus on "DOS Diplomatic Security" and "CRTS Support contract" indicates a high level of security clearance and a specialized, mission-critical function.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Serve as the senior project coordinator for the design review and standards compliance section, overseeing team training and managing workflow to ensure timely and accurate design review submissions.

• Evaluate building designs, construction plans, and modifications to identify critical security elements and assist in planning and implementing acoustic and Radio Frequency (RF) policies and guidelines within the State Department’s infrastructure.

• Provide expert knowledge and guidance on security principles, concepts, methodologies, and practices to protect Department facilities from technical surveillance threats and compromising emanations.

• Participate in project teams to develop and refine technical security standards, especially those related to Overseas Security Policy Board (OSPB) standards for New Embassy Compounds (NECs) and New Office Buildings (NOBs).

• Prepare comprehensive technical reports for senior government officials, clearly identifying potential security vulnerabilities and recommending effective risk mitigation measures.

• Review designs to confirm compliance with OSPB standards for NECs, NOBs, and major renovations, providing support to the Certification Accreditation and Transit (CAT) Branch and the Bureau of Overseas Building Operations.

• Participate in interagency working groups to address policy exceptions and refine mitigation processes related to technical security.

• Perform and review vulnerability assessments as part of the Diplomatic Security Risk Management Framework.

• Manage data throughout its lifecycle, including collection, management, analysis, reporting, and secure disposition, to support design review and compliance activities.

• Act as a liaison with post personnel and other countermeasure programs to ensure coordination and alignment of security efforts.

• Foster an individual growth and professional development environment within the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical expertise, project management, and leadership. The emphasis on OSPB standards and specific facility types (NECs, NOBs) indicates a need for specialized knowledge in government building security protocols. The inclusion of "data throughout its lifecycle" points to a need for data-driven analysis and reporting within the security context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, or a related field.

Experience:

• Minimum of ten (10) years of experience in construction, maintenance, and facility management.

Required Skills:

• Current U.S. Government final Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility.

• Ability to understand and interpret building codes, blueprints, specifications, foreign and domestic construction methods, and other construction documents.

• Proficiency in understanding and explaining Intelligence Community standards, Overseas Security Policy Board (OSPB) technical and physical security standards, and agency-specific regulations.

• Strong leadership and project coordination skills for managing a team of design review engineers.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective interaction with diverse groups and participation in interagency working groups.

• Proficiency in Microsoft O365 suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams).

• Knowledge of acoustics and radio frequency (RF) fundamentals.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with the Diplomatic Security Risk Management Framework.

• Familiarity with technical surveillance countermeasures (TSCM) principles and practices.

• Experience in government contracting environments, particularly with the Department of State.

• Proven ability to foster individual growth and professional development within a team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The clearance requirement is paramount. The combination of a Bachelor's degree or a technical certification with extensive experience suggests a preference for practical, hands-on knowledge alongside formal education. The emphasis on interpreting technical documents and explaining complex standards highlights the need for strong analytical and communication skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing technical design review processes for complex facilities, showcasing a structured approach to compliance checks.

• Examples of developed or refined technical security standards, particularly those aligned with government or international security protocols (e.g., OSPB-related documentation).

• Case studies or project summaries detailing the identification of security vulnerabilities in building designs and the successful implementation of risk mitigation strategies.

Process Documentation:

• Documentation of workflow management for design review teams, including training procedures and quality assurance measures for submissions.

• Examples of process improvements implemented within security design review or compliance functions, emphasizing efficiency and accuracy.

• Methodologies for conducting vulnerability assessments and risk management framework activities within a project context.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "portfolio" might not be explicitly requested in the traditional sense, candidates will be expected to articulate their experience and expertise through their resume and during interviews. The ability to discuss specific projects, processes, and outcomes related to security design, compliance, and risk management will be crucial. Highlighting experience with data lifecycle management and team leadership within these processes will be beneficial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the required Top Secret clearance, extensive experience (10+ years), specialized knowledge (acoustics, RF, OSPB standards), and management responsibilities, the estimated salary range for this position in Washington D.C. is between $140,000 - $180,000 annually.

Benefits:

• Healthcare insurance (medical, dental, vision).

• Comprehensive staff welfare benefits.

• Additional perks as offered by Dexis.

• Potential for situational telework agreements, offering a degree of flexibility.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time position, likely 40 hours per week.

• While primarily on-site, situational telework may be permitted with supervisory approval.

• 25-50% CONUS and OCONUS travel may be required for program coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on market data for cleared positions requiring significant management and technical expertise in the D.C. metro area. Actual compensation will depend on the candidate's specific qualifications, experience, and the final contract terms. The travel requirement is substantial and should be a key consideration for applicants.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Professional Services, Government Contracting, Global Development. Dexis focuses on partnering with government and community leaders to achieve critical social outcomes.

Company Size: Dexis is a growing firm, indicated by its active recruitment and services across various sectors. It operates with a culture of inclusiveness, respect, fairness, and trust, aiming to provide employees with the means and mentorship for success.

Founded: Dexis was founded in 2005.

Team Structure:

• The role is within Dexis Professional Services, supporting the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Diplomatic Security (DS), specifically the Countermeasures & Risk Technology Services (CRTS) Support contract.

• The Security Design Manager will lead the "design review and standards compliance section," overseeing design review engineers and staff.

Methodology:

• The team's work is driven by protecting U.S. diplomatic facilities through rigorous technical security design review and standards compliance. This involves applying established security principles, acoustic and RF policies, and OSPB standards.

• Data analysis and reporting are integral to vulnerability assessments and risk management framework activities.

• Workflow optimization and process refinement are key to ensuring efficient and accurate design review submissions.

Company Website: https://www.dexisonline.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Dexis emphasizes a supportive and growth-oriented culture. The specific contract with the Department of State means the team operates within a structured, mission-driven environment with stringent security protocols and compliance requirements.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior management role, requiring extensive experience and leadership capabilities. It sits at the intersection of technical security design, project management, and team leadership within a government contracting context.

Reporting Structure: The Security Design Manager will likely report to a program manager or a director overseeing the CRTS Support contract. They will, in turn, manage a team of design review engineers and staff.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and critical impact on the physical and technical security of U.S. diplomatic facilities worldwide, safeguarding personnel, information, and national interests. Effective design review and compliance directly mitigate risks from espionage, technical surveillance, and other security threats.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advance within Dexis's project management or leadership track, potentially managing larger contracts or broader scopes of work within Diplomatic Security.

• Deepen expertise in specialized areas of technical security, counter-surveillance, or risk management, becoming a recognized subject matter expert.

• Develop leadership skills through managing a high-performing technical team and interacting with senior government officials.

• Potential for roles involving policy development or strategic planning within security operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for individuals looking to specialize in government security contracting and advance into leadership positions. The combination of technical expertise and management responsibilities provides a strong foundation for future growth in the security and defense sectors.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The position is based in the Arlington, VA area, requiring full-time on-site presence. This suggests a professional office setting within a government contracting environment.

Office Location(s): Arlington, Virginia, USA. Travel is required to CONUS and OCONUS locations for program coordination.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment is likely collaborative, requiring close interaction with design review engineers, project managers, and government stakeholders.

• Access to relevant security documentation, design software, and potentially specialized testing equipment may be available.

Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week, expected to be primarily on-site.

• Flexibility may be available through situational telework agreements, subject to supervisory approval.

• The role demands readiness for significant travel (25-50%) for program coordination, which may involve varying work schedules while on assignment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Arlington, VA, is a key factor. While situational telework is mentioned, the expectation is regular office presence. The travel component is substantial and indicative of a role deeply integrated with field operations and program management across multiple locations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of applications and resumes to confirm that candidates meet the minimum experience, education, and clearance requirements.

• Technical Interview: Likely to involve in-depth questions about security design principles, OSPB standards, RF/acoustic fundamentals, construction methods, and experience with vulnerability assessments. Candidates may be asked to discuss past projects and problem-solving approaches.

• Management/Leadership Interview: Focus on team management experience, leadership style, ability to train and mentor staff, conflict resolution, and stakeholder communication skills.

• Security/Clearance Verification: Confirmation of active Top Secret clearance and SCI eligibility.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership from Dexis and/or the Department of State to assess overall fit, strategic thinking, and alignment with the contract's mission.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Leadership: Showcase instances where you successfully led a team of technical professionals, managed project timelines, and ensured quality deliverables.

• Detail Technical Expertise: Be prepared to discuss specific security design challenges you've faced and how you applied principles of acoustics, RF, and OSPB standards to solve them.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the effectiveness of your security recommendations and risk mitigation strategies (e.g., reduction in identified vulnerabilities, successful compliance audits).

• Data Lifecycle Focus: Articulate your experience managing data, from collection and analysis to reporting and secure disposition, especially in a security context.

• Clearance Assurance: Be ready to discuss your clearance status and any potential limitations or requirements.

Challenge Preparation:

• Candidates might be asked to analyze a hypothetical building design scenario, identify potential security risks, and propose mitigation strategies adhering to OSPB standards.

• Prepare to discuss how you would manage a team facing tight deadlines or conflicting technical requirements.

• Be ready to explain complex technical security concepts in a clear and concise manner suitable for both technical and non-technical audiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily weigh the candidate's clearance status and their ability to demonstrate both technical depth in security design and effective leadership. A strong understanding of government security protocols and contract compliance is essential.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft O365: Essential for daily operations, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams. Advanced proficiency is expected.

• Design & Blueprint Software: Familiarity with CAD or similar architectural/engineering design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit) for interpreting blueprints and design documents.

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like Microsoft Project, Asana, Jira, or similar platforms for managing project timelines, tasks, and resources.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Proficiency with tools for data analysis and reporting, potentially including advanced Excel features, Power BI, Tableau, or specialized security assessment software.

• Database Management: Experience with databases for managing security assessments, compliance records, and personnel data.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how data flows from various sources (e.g., design submissions, site assessments) into systematic tracking and reporting is crucial.

• Familiarity with workflow automation tools could be beneficial for managing the design review process more efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Microsoft O365 is explicit. Beyond that, the role requires comfort with technical documentation (blueprints), project management tools, and data analysis/reporting, likely within a secure government IT environment. Specific security assessment software might be proprietary or specific to the DOS.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Security First: A paramount commitment to the physical and technical security of personnel and facilities, driving all decision-making.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding the highest ethical standards and taking responsibility for the accuracy and effectiveness of security designs and assessments.

• Excellence & Precision: Striving for meticulous attention to detail in design reviews, standards compliance, and risk mitigation.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with internal teams, government agencies, and external partners to achieve shared security objectives.

• Adaptability & Continuous Improvement: Staying abreast of evolving threats and technologies, and continuously refining processes and standards.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Close collaboration with architects, engineers, facility managers, and security personnel from the State Department and potentially other agencies.

• Process-Oriented Feedback: A culture that encourages constructive feedback on designs, processes, and standards to ensure optimal security outcomes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Actively sharing expertise on security principles, OSPB standards, and best practices within the team and with stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is deeply rooted in the mission of Diplomatic Security, emphasizing a serious, professional, and highly ethical approach to security. Teamwork and clear communication are vital due to the high stakes involved.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Complex Regulations: Keeping up-to-date with and applying evolving OSPB standards and other government security regulations across diverse international contexts.

• Balancing Security and Functionality: Ensuring robust security measures are implemented without unduly hindering the functional use or operational efficiency of diplomatic facilities.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Effectively communicating technical security requirements and managing expectations across various government agencies, contractors, and international partners.

• Travel Demands: Adapting to frequent and potentially extensive CONUS/OCONUS travel requirements.

• Dynamic Threat Landscape: Continuously adapting security designs and assessments to counter new and evolving technical surveillance threats.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Opportunities for advanced training in technical surveillance countermeasures (TSCM), RF engineering, acoustic security, and risk management frameworks.

• Industry Conferences: Participation in security and facility management conferences to stay current with best practices and emerging technologies.

• Professional Certifications: Pursuing certifications relevant to security management, project management, or specialized technical security fields.

• Leadership Development: Gaining experience in managing technical teams and contributing to strategic security policy development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges due to the critical nature of diplomatic security and the complexity of international environments. However, these challenges also offer substantial opportunities for professional growth and specialization in a highly respected and impactful field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex building design you reviewed for security compliance. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure adherence to relevant standards like OSPB?" (Focus on process, standards, and problem-solving)

• "How do you lead and mentor a team of technical engineers, especially when dealing with demanding projects and high-stakes requirements?" (Focus on leadership, team development, and management style)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for Dexis and specifically supporting the Department of State's Diplomatic Security mission?" (Demonstrate research and alignment with the mission)

• "How do you ensure your team fosters a culture of integrity and accountability, particularly in a security-sensitive environment?" (Connect to company values and operational needs)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your experience around key responsibilities: design review management, standards development, vulnerability assessment, team leadership, and data management.

• Case Studies: Prepare 2-3 detailed case studies that highlight your contributions to significant security design or compliance projects. For each, describe the problem, your approach, the standards applied, the actions taken, and the measurable outcomes or impacts.

• Metrics: Quantify your achievements whenever possible. For example, "Managed a team that successfully reviewed X designs per quarter, exceeding the target by Y%," or "Implemented a new process that reduced design review turnaround time by Z%."

• Technical Depth: Be ready to explain complex technical concepts (RF, acoustics) and security standards (OSPB) clearly and concisely.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared to articulate their experience with concrete examples that demonstrate both technical acumen in security design and strong leadership capabilities. Understanding the mission of Diplomatic Security and Dexis's role within it is crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Dexis website.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your 10+ years of experience in construction/facility management, your Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility, and specific achievements related to security design, standards compliance, and team leadership. Use keywords from the job description.

• Portfolio Articulation: Be prepared to discuss specific projects and examples from your career that demonstrate your ability to manage design reviews, apply security standards (like OSPB), conduct vulnerability assessments, and lead technical teams.

• Interview Preparation: Research Dexis and the Department of State's Bureau of Diplomatic Security. Practice answering behavioral and situational questions related to security management, technical problem-solving, and leadership.

• Company Research: Understand Dexis's mission and values, and how this role contributes to the broader goals of Diplomatic Security.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.