Senior Security Systems Design Consultant - Buildings

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Security Systems Design Consultant - Buildings

Company: WSP

Location: Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering & Consulting (Building Technology/Security Systems)

Date Posted: June 04, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design and implementation of advanced integrated security systems for complex building projects, encompassing video surveillance, access control, intrusion detection, and real-time locating systems.

• Manage the complete project lifecycle from initial studies and concept development through detailed design, construction documentation, tendering, administration, and project closeout, ensuring strategic alignment with client objectives.

• Conduct comprehensive physical security audits and threat risk assessments, translating findings into actionable, client-centric recommendations and proposals.

• Serve as a trusted subject matter expert, engaging effectively with diverse stakeholders, including executives, end-users, and technical teams, to uncover and define critical security and functional requirements.

• Drive business development by preparing compelling bids and proposals, leveraging deep technical expertise and commercial awareness to secure new project opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Senior Consultant, indicating a need for strong technical expertise, project leadership, client-facing skills, and business development capabilities within the security systems design domain for buildings. The hybrid work arrangement suggests a blend of remote work and on-site collaboration, characteristic of consulting roles.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and engineer integrated security systems, including but not limited to video surveillance, access control, intrusion detection, duress systems, and real-time locating technologies, ensuring seamless network integration.

• Oversee and execute complete project lifecycles, from initial feasibility studies and concept design to detailed design, the preparation of construction documentation, tender reviews, construction administration, and final project closeout.

• Perform thorough physical security audits and comprehensive threat risk assessments (TRAs) to identify vulnerabilities and develop strategic, data-driven recommendations for mitigation.

• Lead and facilitate stakeholder engagement sessions, effectively eliciting and documenting technical and functional requirements from diverse client groups.

• Conduct workshops and collaborative sessions to develop tailored, client-focused security solutions that leverage a variety of technologies.

• Represent WSP as a subject matter expert, providing authoritative advice and guidance to clients across various sectors on security system design and implementation.

• Develop and present high-quality bids and proposals, supporting business development efforts and expanding WSP's service offerings in security and building technology.

• Produce professional technical deliverables, including detailed specifications, reports, and visual documentation, utilizing standard professional software like MS Word, Excel, Visio, PowerPoint, Bluebeam, and Adobe Acrobat.

• Interpret, coordinate, and review project drawings created in REVIT, AutoCAD, and similar architectural/engineering design platforms.

• Actively participate in project meetings and technical reviews with stakeholders at all levels, from executives to end-users and technical teams.

• Collaborate closely with local and national security and technology professionals within WSP to ensure the delivery of integrated and impactful solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly delineate a senior-level role focused on end-to-end project ownership, client interaction, and technical leadership in security systems design for buildings. The emphasis on full project lifecycle management and stakeholder engagement suggests a need for strong organizational and communication skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Computer, or related field), Security Management, or a related technical discipline is typically expected for a Senior Consultant role in this field. Relevant professional certifications will also be considered. Experience:

• A minimum of 5+ years of dedicated security consulting experience, with a strong emphasis on complex, multidisciplinary building projects.

• Demonstrated experience in successfully managing large-scale security projects from inception to completion, showcasing commercial awareness and project financial acumen. Required Skills:

• Expertise in designing integrated security systems, including video surveillance, access control, and intrusion detection.

• Proficient in managing the full project lifecycle for security systems, from conceptualization to closeout.

• Strong capability in conducting physical security audits and threat risk assessments (TRAs).

• Proven ability to manage stakeholder engagement and elicit technical and functional requirements.

• Skill in preparing and presenting compelling bids, proposals, and technical documentation.

• Proficiency with professional software such as MS Word, Excel, Visio, PowerPoint, Bluebeam, and Adobe Acrobat.

• Experience interpreting and coordinating drawings from REVIT and AutoCAD.

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

• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel for project assignments. Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with alternative delivery models such as Alliance, DBFM (Design, Build, Finance, Maintain), and Design-Build.

• Knowledge of networking and systems integration principles relevant to modern security design.

• Experience with specific security technologies beyond core access control and surveillance (e.g., duress, real-time locating systems).

• Understanding of project finance, contracts, and commercial models.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize practical experience in security systems design and project management, with a clear need for a government security clearance. The preferred skills point towards candidates with experience in various project delivery methods and broader systems integration knowledge.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase diverse security systems design projects, detailing the scope, challenges, and implemented solutions for video surveillance, access control, and intrusion detection.

• Provide examples of completed project documentation, including design specifications, system architecture diagrams, and scope of work documents that demonstrate a clear understanding of technical requirements.

• Present case studies of physical security audits or threat risk assessments, highlighting methodology, findings, and the impact of recommended improvements on client security posture.

• Include examples of proposals or bid submissions, demonstrating commercial awareness, understanding of project finance, and ability to articulate value propositions for security consulting services. Process Documentation:

• Document the process followed for managing integrated security projects from initial client consultation through detailed design and construction administration, emphasizing efficiency and client satisfaction.

• Illustrate the workflow for conducting and reporting on physical security audits and threat risk assessments, including risk analysis and mitigation strategy development.

• Detail experience with interpreting and coordinating architectural and engineering drawings (e.g., REVIT, AutoCAD) within the security design process.

• Provide examples of stakeholder engagement processes, detailing how requirements were gathered, documented, and translated into design solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates will be expected to demonstrate their experience through a portfolio that highlights their technical design capabilities, project management skills, client engagement, and understanding of security assessment methodologies. The focus is on tangible project outcomes and well-documented processes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Ottawa, ON: $112,100 – $154,400 CAD per year.

Benefits:

• Flexible Work arrangements to support work-life balance.

• Wellbeing Support programs to promote employee health and wellness.

• Comprehensive benefits package typically including health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.

• Participation in a global network of experts and access to diverse projects.

• Contribution to meaningful projects that shape communities and advance humanity. Working Hours:

• Standard 40-hour work week, with flexibility for occasional overtime as project demands require.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific to Ontario, reflecting the location of the job posting. The listed benefits align with general corporate offerings, with specific mention of flexible work and wellbeing support, which are key attractions for consulting professionals. The note about salary variability based on factors like experience and location is standard disclosure.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Consulting, and Professional Services. WSP operates across diverse sectors including transportation, infrastructure, environment, buildings, energy, water, and mining. This role is within the Building Technology team, specifically focusing on security systems.

Company Size: WSP is a large, global organization, recognized as a Top 100 Employer in Canada. This size offers extensive resources, a broad network of expertise, and opportunities for diverse project involvement.

Founded: WSP has a long history, with its origins tracing back to 1880. The company has grown through strategic acquisitions and organic expansion to become a global leader.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of the Ottawa Building Technology Team, indicating a specialized group focused on technology solutions within the building sector.

• This team likely collaborates with other engineering disciplines (e.g., mechanical, electrical, structural) and project management groups within WSP.

• Reporting structure is not specified but typically involves a Senior Consultant reporting to a Team Lead or Principal, with project-specific reporting lines. Methodology:

• WSP emphasizes a data-driven and collaborative approach, uniting global expertise to deliver local solutions.

• For security systems design, this likely involves rigorous analysis, adherence to industry standards, and client-centric problem-solving.

• The company culture values innovation, continuous learning, and making a positive impact on communities.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: WSP's global presence and Canadian recognition as a Top Employer suggest a professional and dynamic work environment. The company's mission to "shape communities to advance humanity" and its "Visioneers" branding highlight a culture focused on innovation, purpose, and impact.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Consultant position, signifying a mid-to-senior level role. It implies a significant degree of autonomy, responsibility for project outcomes, and the expectation to mentor junior staff. The role requires not only technical proficiency but also strong client management and business development skills.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Security Systems Design Consultant will likely report to a Manager or Director within the Building Technology or Security Systems division in Ottawa. They will also work closely with Project Managers and collaborate across various engineering disciplines within WSP.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on the safety, security, and operational efficiency of buildings. By designing robust security systems, the consultant contributes to risk mitigation, asset protection, and the creation of secure environments for occupants. Their work influences project success, client satisfaction, and WSP's reputation in the security consulting market.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific security technologies (e.g., advanced analytics, biometrics, cybersecurity for physical security).

• Project Leadership: Progress to leading larger, more complex, and potentially international security projects.

• Business Development: Develop skills in client relationship management, proposal writing, and securing new business, potentially moving into roles with greater commercial responsibility.

• Mentorship and Team Leadership: Transition into team lead or management positions, guiding and developing junior consultants.

• Cross-Disciplinary Experience: Gain exposure to other areas of building technology or WSP's broader service offerings, leading to more integrated consulting roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Senior Consultant title suggests a clear path for career advancement within WSP, focusing on technical leadership, project management, and business development within the security consulting domain. The company's size and global reach offer substantial growth potential.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is advertised as Hybrid, indicating a combination of remote work and in-office presence. WSP offices are typically professional, modern environments designed to foster collaboration and innovation.

Office Location(s): The primary office location is Ottawa, Ontario, at 2611 Queensview Drive, K2B 8K2. This location serves as a hub for the Building Technology team.

Workspace Context:

• The hybrid model allows for focused work at home and collaborative sessions, client meetings, and team discussions in the Ottawa office.

• The office environment likely provides access to necessary technology, design software, and meeting facilities.

• Opportunities for collaboration with local and national security and technology professionals will be facilitated through both in-person and virtual channels. Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week.

• Flexibility is offered, with the expectation of occasional overtime to meet project deadlines, which is common in consulting roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work environment at WSP's Ottawa office is designed to balance individual productivity with team collaboration, a common structure for senior consulting roles. The office location is specific, and the hybrid nature requires adaptability from the employee.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess alignment with experience and qualifications.

• Technical Interview(s): Discussions focused on your experience in security systems design, project management, and technical knowledge (e.g., specific technologies, design methodologies, software proficiency). Expect scenario-based questions related to designing security systems for complex buildings.

• Behavioral Interview: Assessment of your soft skills, including stakeholder engagement, communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership potential. Questions will likely explore how you've handled challenging projects or client situations.

• Case Study/Portfolio Review: You may be asked to present a selection of your work from your portfolio, detailing specific projects, your role, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and outcomes achieved. This is a critical stage for demonstrating your capabilities.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss cultural fit, career aspirations, and final alignment with the role and WSP's vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your most impactful projects that best showcase your expertise in security systems design for buildings.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the project's objectives, the challenges encountered, the specific solutions you designed, and the quantifiable results (e.g., improved security posture, cost savings, efficiency gains).

• Showcase Process: Detail your design methodology, stakeholder engagement process, and how you managed project lifecycles. Include examples of technical documentation and drawings.

• Highlight Key Skills: Ensure your portfolio demonstrates experience with core security technologies, relevant software (Revit, AutoCAD, Visio, Bluebeam), and project management.

• Address Security Clearance: Be prepared to discuss your ability to obtain or maintain the required Secret security clearance.

• Tailor to WSP: Research WSP's projects and values, and subtly tailor your presentation to align with their focus on innovation, sustainability, and community impact.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach a hypothetical security design challenge for a large public building (e.g., a government facility, hospital, or transportation hub).

• Prepare to explain your process for threat risk assessment and how you translate findings into a security design strategy.

• Practice articulating complex technical concepts clearly and concisely, as you may need to explain your design choices to a mixed audience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess both technical acumen and soft skills. A strong portfolio presentation is crucial for demonstrating practical experience and project management capabilities, especially for a senior role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD/BIM Software: REVIT, AutoCAD are essential for interpreting and coordinating architectural and engineering drawings.

• Documentation & Design Support: MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, Bluebeam, Adobe Acrobat for creating specifications, reports, proposals, and visual documentation.

• Diagramming: Visio for creating system diagrams and workflows.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed, experience with data analysis tools and reporting dashboards may be beneficial for presenting security audit findings or project performance metrics. CRM & Automation:

• Familiarity with CRM systems for business development and proposal tracking could be advantageous.

• Automation tools are less likely to be a primary focus for this design role, but an understanding of how security systems can be integrated and automated is key. Security System Specifics:

• Deep understanding of Video Surveillance systems (CCTV), Access Control systems (ACS), Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), and potentially Duress and Real-Time Locating Systems (RTLS).

• Knowledge of networking principles as they apply to IP-based security systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD/BIM software and document creation tools is a baseline requirement. Knowledge of specific security system technologies and their integration is paramount.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Purpose-Driven: A commitment to shaping communities and advancing humanity, reflected in the quality and impact of security solutions.

• Collaboration: Working effectively within the Building Technology team and across other WSP disciplines to deliver integrated solutions.

• Innovation: Encouraging new ideas and approaches to security design that leverage emerging technologies and best practices.

• Expertise: Maintaining and sharing deep technical knowledge in security systems design, acting as trusted advisors to clients.

• Integrity: Upholding high ethical standards in all client interactions and project delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional: Expected to work seamlessly with architects, electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, IT specialists, and project managers.

• Client-Centric: A focus on understanding and addressing client needs through open communication and tailored solutions.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical insights among team members.

• Mentorship: Senior members are expected to guide and support junior staff in their professional development.

📝 Enhancement Note: WSP's stated values of purpose, global collaboration, and innovation are central to its culture. For a Senior Consultant, demonstrating these values in daily work, particularly through client engagement and cross-functional teamwork, will be key.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Project Requirements: Integrating diverse security systems into multifaceted building designs while meeting stringent client and regulatory requirements.

• Evolving Technology Landscape: Staying abreast of rapid advancements in security technology and adapting designs accordingly.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Managing expectations and requirements from various client stakeholders with potentially competing interests.

• Obtaining Security Clearance: The necessity of obtaining and maintaining a Secret security clearance can be a significant hurdle for some candidates.

• Business Development Pressure: Consistently contributing to securing new projects to ensure team and company growth.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Security Certifications: Pursuing certifications such as Certified Protection Professional (CPP) or relevant security technology vendor certifications.

• Industry Conferences: Attending security and building technology conferences to stay current with trends and network.

• Project Variety: Gaining exposure to a wide range of building types and security challenges across different sectors.

• Leadership Training: Opportunities for formal leadership and business development training within WSP.

• Mentorship Programs: Access to experienced leaders within WSP for guidance and career development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle challenging, high-profile projects and grow within a leading global firm. The key challenges revolve around technical complexity, client management, and adapting to technological evolution, all within a structured professional development framework.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for designing an integrated security system for a large government facility. What are the key considerations, and how do you ensure all requirements are met?" (Focus on methodology, stakeholder engagement, and technical depth.)

• "Walk me through a challenging security project you managed. What was the most significant obstacle, and how did you overcome it? What was the ultimate outcome?" (Prepare a STAR method response emphasizing problem-solving, leadership, and results.)

• "How do you approach conducting a Threat Risk Assessment? What tools or methodologies do you employ, and how do you present your findings to clients?" (Demonstrate analytical rigor and communication skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in WSP, and specifically this role in our Building Technology team?" (Research WSP's mission, values, and recent projects; connect your aspirations to their work.)

• "How do you stay current with advancements in security technology and design trends?" (Highlight continuous learning habits and industry engagement.)

• "Describe your experience working in a hybrid environment and collaborating with diverse teams." (Emphasize adaptability, communication, and teamwork.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by highlighting key skills (e.g., Access Control Design, Surveillance Systems, Risk Assessments).

• Storytelling: For each project, tell a compelling story: the client's need, the challenge, your solution, your specific contributions, and the positive impact.

• Visuals: Use clear, professional visuals – system diagrams, floor plans (redacted for confidentiality), photos of installed systems (if permitted), and key metrics.

• Technical Detail: Be prepared to discuss the technical specifications of systems, integration points, and design rationale.

• Conciseness: Aim for clarity and brevity. Focus on the most relevant aspects of your experience for this Senior Consultant role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparing specific examples that showcase your experience with security systems design, project management, and client interaction will be critical. Demonstrating an understanding of WSP's values and the specific requirements of the role will set you apart.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the WSP careers portal via the provided link.

• Portfolio Customization: Select 3-5 key projects that best showcase your expertise in security systems design for buildings, highlighting your role, technical solutions, and project outcomes. Ensure these align with the responsibilities and requirements outlined in the job description.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize your 5+ years of security consulting experience, project management successes, proficiency with CAD/BIM software, and any experience with alternative delivery models or threat risk assessments. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method, especially for behavioral questions. Prepare to discuss your approach to security design challenges and present your portfolio effectively. Research WSP's projects and values.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with WSP's global presence, Canadian achievements (e.g., Top 100 Employer), and their mission to "shape communities to advance humanity." Understand their work in building technology and 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.