Security Systems Design Consultant - Buildings

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Security Systems Design Consultant - Buildings

Company: WSP

Location: Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering & Technology Consulting (Security, IT, AV)

Date Posted: June 04, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (5-10 years implied)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and deliver integrated Security, Information Technology (IT), and Audio-Visual (AV) systems for building projects across Atlantic Canada, focusing on enhancing safety, operability, and user experience.

• Lead and execute Security Systems Studies, from initial concept narratives and schematic design through to detailed design, construction documentation, and project closeout phases.

• Conduct comprehensive physical security and IT/AV infrastructure audits, translating findings into clear, actionable recommendations for clients and project teams.

• Facilitate client and stakeholder requirements workshops to accurately define technical, functional, and operational needs for security and technology systems.

• Serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in security and technology systems, advising clients and representing WSP's expertise within the industry community.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the raw input doesn't explicitly state "Revenue Operations," "Sales Operations," or "GTM," this role involves significant client interaction, project management, and technical solution design that directly impacts project revenue and client satisfaction. Therefore, the enhancement focuses on transferable operations-adjacent skills such as project delivery, requirements gathering, and stakeholder management within a consulting engineering context. The salary bands provided are specific to Canadian provinces, reflecting a localized compensation strategy.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design integrated security, IT, and AV systems to enhance safety, operability, and user confidence in public and private facilities.

• Lead and contribute to Security Systems Studies, including concept narratives, schematic design, detailed design, construction documents, and project closeout.

• Conduct physical security and IT/AV infrastructure audits, developing clear and actionable recommendations.

• Facilitate requirements workshops with clients and stakeholders to identify technical, functional, and operational needs.

• Act as a trusted subject matter expert, advising clients and representing WSP in the security and technology community.

• Produce professional technical deliverables such as specifications, reports, and drawings using REVIT, AutoCAD, Bluebeam Studio, and Microsoft 365.

• Collaborate with local and national colleagues across Building Technologies and other disciplines for integrated solutions.

• Participate in technical and project meetings with diverse stakeholders, including executive, end-user, consultant, and technical teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities clearly outline a project-based workflow. For an operations professional, this translates to managing project lifecycles, ensuring timely delivery of technical documentation, and optimizing the process of requirements gathering and solution design. The emphasis on "integrated solutions" suggests a need for cross-functional process alignment, a key tenet of operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Computer, or related), Technology, or a relevant field is typically expected for a consultant role of this nature. Professional certifications in security (e.g., CPP, PSP) or IT (e.g., PMP, CCNA) would be advantageous.

Experience: 5-10 years of hands-on experience in designing and delivering security, IT infrastructure, and AV systems within a consulting or engineering environment is implied by the "Mid-Level" experience designation.

Required Skills:

• Hands-on experience with Security, IT infrastructure, and AV systems design and delivery.

• Experience with Threat & Risk Assessments and Physical Security methodologies.

• Familiarity with networking and IT infrastructure fundamentals in a consulting or technical capacity.

• Proficiency in design and documentation tools: REVIT, AutoCAD, Bluebeam Studio, and Microsoft 365.

• Ability to obtain Public Works & Government Services Canada Level 2 (Secret) clearance.

• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel across Atlantic Canada.

• Adaptability for occasional overtime to meet project milestones. Preferred Skills:

• Experience in specific security system technologies (e.g., access control, CCTV, intrusion detection).

• Knowledge of audio-visual technologies and integration (e.g., video conferencing, digital signage, room systems).

• Understanding of building management systems (BMS) and their integration with security and IT.

• Project management experience within the consulting or construction industry.

• Strong technical writing and presentation skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Skills That Set You Apart" section provides a strong foundation for required skills. The "Education" and "Experience" sections have been inferred based on industry standards for a "Consultant" role at a firm like WSP, with an implied mid-level experience range. The "Preferred Skills" are derived from the core responsibilities and common adjacent technologies in building systems integration.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case Studies: Demonstrating successful design and implementation of integrated Security, IT, and AV systems for building projects. Highlight challenges, solutions, and outcomes.

• Technical Deliverables: Examples of professional technical specifications, system drawings (schematic and detailed), and reports produced using REVIT, AutoCAD, and Bluebeam Studio.

• Audit Reports: Samples of physical security and IT/AV infrastructure audit reports, showcasing analytical skills and actionable recommendation development.

• Requirements Documentation: Examples of requirements workshops or documentation that clearly capture client and stakeholder needs for technology systems.

• Project Scope: Clearly define the scope of your involvement in past projects, highlighting leadership or significant contribution roles.

Process Documentation:

• Design Workflow: Document your approach to system design, from initial client consultation and needs assessment through to final documentation and handover.

• Collaboration Protocols: Illustrate how you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (e.g., architects, structural engineers, electrical engineers) and external stakeholders.

• Quality Assurance: Outline your process for ensuring the accuracy, completeness, and compliance of technical deliverables and security recommendations.

• Risk Assessment Methodology: Detail your approach to conducting Threat & Risk Assessments and incorporating findings into system designs.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a consulting role, a portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical application of skills. The requirements here are tailored to showcase design capabilities, analytical rigor, and process-oriented thinking, aligning with operations principles of structured execution and quality output.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Nova Scotia: $76,900 – $102,100 CAD per year

• Note: Salary ranges vary by Canadian province as indicated in the job posting. Benefits:

• Flexible work arrangements.

• Support for wellbeing at work and in life.

• Comprehensive benefits package (details not specified, but typical for a firm of this size include health, dental, vision, retirement plans).

• Opportunities for professional development and training.

• Access to a global network of experts and resources.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with adaptability for occasional overtime to meet project milestones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary ranges provided are specific to the Canadian provinces listed. The "Benefits" section expands on the brief mentions in the original posting, inferring standard offerings for a large, reputable engineering firm. The "Disclosure" section from the original posting is crucial for candidates to understand that the final salary may vary.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Consulting, Professional Services (specializing in Buildings sector, with a focus on Security, IT, and AV systems). WSP is a global leader in engineering and professional services, shaping communities and advancing humanity through innovative solutions.

Company Size: Large (WSP is a global firm with a substantial presence in Canada, indicating thousands of employees). This size offers opportunities for diverse projects and career mobility.

Founded: WSP has a long history, with roots tracing back to 1880, though the modern WSP entity has evolved through mergers and acquisitions. This longevity suggests stability and a deep understanding of the industry.

Team Structure:

• Part of the Building Technologies group, likely working within a larger Building Design or Consulting division.

• The team comprises specialists in Security, IT, and AV systems, collaborating on integrated building solutions.

• Reporting structure likely involves a Senior Consultant or Principal leading the team, with this role reporting to them.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, working closely with architects, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) engineers, and other building systems specialists. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Utilizing client requirements, site assessments, and threat/risk analysis to inform system designs.

• Integrated Solutions: Emphasizing the synergy between Security, IT, and AV systems for optimal building performance and user experience.

• Lifecycle Project Management: Managing projects from conceptualization through design, construction, and closeout.

• Client-Centric Approach: Prioritizing client needs and delivering tailored, effective solutions.

Company Website: https://www.wsp.com/en-ca/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company description provided by WSP emphasizes their global reach, local impact, and culture of innovation ("Visioneers"). This context is crucial for understanding the operational environment and the expectations placed on consultants – balancing technical expertise with business acumen and client relationship management.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level "Consultant," typically requiring 5-10 years of experience. It signifies a progression from junior roles, where individuals are expected to manage their own projects, contribute significantly to design, and begin to mentor others. The scope involves client interaction, technical leadership on projects, and contributing to the firm's reputation.

Reporting Structure: Likely reports to a Senior Consultant, Principal Consultant, or a Practice Lead within the Building Technologies or Security Consulting group. This role will also involve collaborating with and potentially mentoring junior engineers or designers.

Operations Impact: The impact of this role is directly tied to the successful delivery of secure, functional, and technologically advanced buildings. This involves:

• Client Satisfaction: Ensuring clients' security and technology needs are met, leading to repeat business and positive referrals.

• Project Success: Contributing to the on-time and on-budget delivery of projects by providing robust and well-documented system designs.

• Risk Mitigation: Designing systems that effectively mitigate security risks for clients, protecting assets and people.

• Revenue Generation: Directly contributing to project revenue through billable hours and successful project execution.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like cybersecurity for buildings, advanced AV integration, or complex access control systems.

• Project Leadership: Progress to Senior Consultant or Principal roles, managing larger and more complex projects, leading teams, and developing client relationships.

• Business Development: Contribute to proposals, client pitches, and expanding WSP's service offerings in security and technology consulting.

• Mentorship: Develop leadership skills by mentoring junior team members and guiding their technical and professional development.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gain experience in other building systems or consulting areas within WSP's broader portfolio.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis bridges the technical consulting role with operational career progression. The "Operations Impact" section frames the consultant's work in terms of business outcomes (revenue, satisfaction, risk) that are central to operations thinking. Growth opportunities are mapped out as typical career paths within professional services firms.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is primarily on-site within a professional office environment. WSP offices are typically modern, collaborative workspaces designed to support engineering and consulting activities.

Office Location(s): The primary office location is 1 Spectacle Lake Drive, Dartmouth, NS, B3B 1X7. Travel to client sites across Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador) is a requirement.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office likely fosters a collaborative atmosphere with shared workspaces, meeting rooms, and design studios to encourage interaction between project teams.

• Technology Access: Expect access to industry-standard design software (Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam), high-speed internet, and communication tools necessary for remote collaboration and client meetings.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular face-to-face interaction with colleagues from Building Technologies, other engineering disciplines, and support staff, facilitating knowledge sharing and problem-solving.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week is expected, with flexibility to manage workloads and occasional overtime as project deadlines approach. This requires effective time management and prioritization skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Workspace Context" is fleshed out to describe a typical professional services office environment, emphasizing collaboration and technology. The "Work Schedule" acknowledges the need for flexibility common in project-based work, which aligns with operations' focus on meeting deliverables and deadlines.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and application to assess qualifications and experience against role requirements.

• Technical Interview: Discussion focused on your experience with security, IT, and AV systems design, threat/risk assessments, and technical documentation. Expect questions about specific projects and your role in them.

• Case Study/Design Challenge: You may be asked to present a portfolio of your work or tackle a hypothetical design problem to assess your problem-solving approach, technical skills, and ability to communicate complex ideas.

• Cultural Fit Interview: Conversation with hiring managers and potential team members to assess alignment with WSP's values, collaborative style, and overall fit within the team.

• Security Clearance Process: Initiation of the process to obtain the required Public Works & Government Services Canada Level 2 (Secret) clearance.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Relevant Projects: Select 3-5 projects that best showcase your experience in security, IT, and AV system design for buildings.

• Highlight Your Role: Clearly define your specific contributions, design decisions, and problem-solving approaches for each project.

• Showcase Technical Deliverables: Include redacted samples of specifications, drawings, and reports. Emphasize clarity, detail, and adherence to standards.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, quantify the benefits of your designs (e.g., improved system efficiency, enhanced security posture, cost savings).

• Prepare a Walkthrough: Be ready to walk interviewers through your portfolio, explaining your process and rationale for design choices.

Challenge Preparation:

• Review Core Technologies: Refresh your knowledge of access control, video surveillance, intrusion detection, networking fundamentals, and common AV systems.

• Understand Design Standards: Familiarize yourself with relevant building codes, security standards, and IT best practices.

• Practice Problem-Solving: Think through how you would approach a common security design challenge, such as designing a system for a new office building or a secure facility.

• Prepare for Stakeholder Communication: Be ready to discuss how you would engage with various stakeholders and translate their needs into technical requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice for candidates, focusing on how to best present their experience and prepare for the specific demands of a consulting role interview, emphasizing the portfolio as a key operational tool for demonstrating capability.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Software: REVIT (Building Information Modeling), AutoCAD (Computer-Aided Design) for creating technical drawings and models.

• Documentation & Collaboration: Bluebeam Studio for PDF markup, collaboration, and document management; Microsoft 365 suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) for reports, presentations, and communication.

• Security Systems: Familiarity with various security system manufacturers and platforms (e.g., Lenel, Genetec, Milestone, Axis, Avigilon) is highly beneficial.

• IT Networking: Understanding of network infrastructure, including switches, routers, firewalls, and cabling standards (e.g., TIA/EIA).

• AV Systems: Knowledge of AV components and systems (e.g., displays, projectors, audio processors, control systems, video conferencing solutions).

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary analytical role, proficiency in using reporting features within design software and Microsoft Excel for data analysis related to project scope, bill of materials, and system performance is expected. CRM & Automation:

• While not directly managing a CRM for sales operations, understanding how project requirements translate into client needs and how project delivery impacts client relationships is important. Automation might be relevant in terms of template usage or workflow efficiency within design tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section directly lists the core technologies mentioned in the job description and expands slightly based on industry context for security, IT, and AV consulting. This is crucial for ATS optimization and for candidates to quickly assess their tool proficiency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence: Commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative, and technically sound solutions that exceed client expectations.

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all client interactions and project work, particularly in security-sensitive environments.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders to achieve integrated and successful project outcomes.

• Innovation: Continuously seeking new technologies, methodologies, and approaches to enhance security and building system designs.

• Purpose-Driven: Contributing to projects that shape communities and advance humanity, aligning with WSP's overarching mission.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively participating in design coordination meetings with architects, MEP engineers, and other disciplines to ensure seamless integration of security, IT, and AV systems.

• Client-Centric Communication: Regularly engaging with clients to understand their evolving needs, present design concepts, and gather feedback.

• Knowledge Sharing: Proactively sharing expertise and lessons learned with colleagues to foster a learning environment and improve overall team capabilities.

• Feedback Loop: Open to constructive feedback on designs and processes, using it to refine solutions and improve future project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: WSP's stated values ("Visioneers," "shape communities to advance humanity") are integrated here. The "Collaboration Style" is inferred from the interdisciplinary nature of building design and consulting, reflecting a proactive and communicative approach essential for operations success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Evolving Technologies: Keeping pace with rapid advancements in security, IT, and AV technologies and integrating them effectively into building designs.

• Complex Project Requirements: Navigating diverse and sometimes conflicting requirements from various stakeholders in large, complex building projects.

• Security Clearance: The process and ongoing maintenance of a Secret level security clearance can be demanding.

• Client Management: Balancing technical design with client expectations, budget constraints, and project timelines.

• Geographic Scope: Managing projects and client relationships across the diverse landscape of Atlantic Canada, involving travel.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to training on new technologies, software updates, and industry best practices in security, IT, and AV.

• Professional Certifications: Support for obtaining and maintaining certifications relevant to security (e.g., ASIS certifications), IT (e.g., PMP, network certifications), or AV (e.g., CTS).

• Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to learn from experienced senior consultants and principals within WSP.

• Industry Events: Participation in conferences, webinars, and workshops to stay abreast of industry trends and network with peers.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Opportunities to work on projects involving other WSP service lines, broadening your understanding of integrated building solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Identifying potential challenges helps candidates prepare and demonstrates an understanding of the role's complexities. The growth opportunities are framed to align with career progression in a professional services and consulting environment, focusing on skill enhancement and leadership development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex security, IT, or AV system you designed. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on your design process, problem-solving, and technical rationale.)

• "How do you approach conducting a Threat & Risk Assessment for a building? What are the critical components?" (Demonstrate your understanding of security methodologies.)

• "Walk me through your process for leading a requirements workshop with diverse stakeholders. How do you ensure all needs are captured and addressed?" (Highlight your client-facing and communication skills.)

• "How do you ensure your technical designs integrate seamlessly with architectural and other engineering disciplines?" (Showcase your understanding of collaborative design workflows.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about WSP and this specific role in Atlantic Canada?" (Research WSP's projects, values, and connect them to your career goals.)

• "How do you stay current with the rapidly evolving technologies in the security, IT, and AV fields?" (Emphasize continuous learning and proactive knowledge acquisition.)

• "Describe your experience working in a team environment. How do you contribute to team success and handle disagreements?" (Focus on collaboration, communication, and conflict resolution.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly outline the client's objective, the problem you solved, your specific design approach, the technologies used, and the final outcome/benefits.

• Highlight Technical Details: Be prepared to discuss the specifics of system design, component selection, and integration strategies.

• Showcase Documentation Quality: Present examples of your clearest and most comprehensive technical specifications and drawings.

• Explain Your Process: Articulate your workflow from initial concept to final documentation, emphasizing efficiency and accuracy.

• Be Ready for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design decisions, alternative solutions you considered, and how you managed project constraints.

📝 Enhancement Note: These interview questions are crafted to probe the core competencies required for a Security Systems Design Consultant, emphasizing technical expertise, process understanding, and client interaction skills, all within the framework of effective operations delivery.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Security Systems Design Consultant position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the WSP career portal.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight specific experience with security, IT, and AV system design, threat/risk assessments, and proficiency with REVIT, AutoCAD, and Bluebeam. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Designed security systems for X projects totaling Y square feet").

• Portfolio Preparation: Compile a digital portfolio showcasing 3-5 relevant projects. Ensure it includes examples of technical specifications, system drawings, and any relevant audit reports or case studies. Be ready to present it clearly and concisely.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with WSP's mission, values, and recent projects, particularly in the Buildings sector and Atlantic Canada. Understand their approach to innovation and client service.

• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your technical experience, project examples, and how you handle client requirements and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Practice articulating your design process and problem-solving approach.

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