Advance Your Career as an Architect with the Architect of the Capitol

Working as an architect in the federal sector is a unique challenge that balances technical rigor with historical preservation. The Architect of the Capitol (AOC) is currently seeking a talented individual to join their team in Washington, D.C., to manage and design projects for the House Office Buildings. This temporary, full-time position is ideal for professionals looking to contribute their skills to some of the most recognizable structures in the United States.

Job Responsibilities

The selected candidate will serve as an Architect, managing a variety of duties across the project lifecycle. Key responsibilities include:

Design & Specification: Creating floor plans, elevations, and detailed architectural specifications for new construction, renovations, and restorations.
Design Management: Acting as a project leader for interdisciplinary teams to ensure that architectural designs meet aesthetic, structural, and budget requirements.
Construction Oversight: Conducting field audits and verifying site activities to ensure work aligns with project goals and safety standards.
Technical Advisement: Solving complex technical and historic preservation issues while coordinating with engineers, Project Managers, and Contract Officer Representatives.

Core Competencies Comparison

Competency	Focus Area
Architectural Design	Creating plans and specifications
Project Management	Managing budgets and project scope
Communication	Liaising with stakeholders and contractors
Technical Compliance	Ensuring adherence to federal building standards

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet specific eligibility requirements:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Education: A degree in architecture or a related field with 60+ semester hours in relevant subjects including architectural design and structural technology.
Experience: At least 52 weeks of specialized experience at the GS-09 level.
Screening: Successful completion of a background check and a mandatory drug test.

Salary and Benefits

The salary range for this position is $85,447 to $111,087 per year. In addition to competitive compensation, employees benefit from the comprehensive federal benefits package, including health and life insurance, retirement planning, and flexible spending accounts.

Application Tips

Focus on Specialized Experience: Ensure your resume highlights your experience with construction specifications and building alterations.
Clarity is Key: Use your resume to provide clear evidence that supports your answers on the assessment questionnaire.
Follow Procedures: The AOC requires specific documentation at the time of selection, not necessarily at the time of application. Focus on a high-quality resume.

This role offers an unparalleled opportunity to work on projects that define the landscape of the nation's capital. If you meet the qualifications and are eager to tackle unique architectural challenges, we encourage you to apply through the official USAJOBS portal before the closing date.

Why This Architect Job Matters

Join the Architect of the Capitol team and shape the future of iconic national landmarks in the heart of Washington, D.C.

Architect Job Overview

The Architect of the Capitol (AOC) is seeking a skilled Architect to join the House Office Buildings team for a temporary appointment of up to 13 months. This role offers the unique opportunity to contribute to the preservation, maintenance, and development of Capitol Hill’s historic and functional structures. You will play a vital role in project management, architectural design, and the oversight of facility improvements, ensuring that America’s most prominent government buildings remain safe, accessible, and aesthetically representative of our nation’s values.

Requirements for Architect

U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
Completion of a background check and drug screening process.
Possession of a professional degree in architecture or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Minimum of 52 weeks of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-09 federal grade level.
Ability to register with the Selective Service System if born after December 31, 1959.

Preferred Qualifications for Architect

Demonstrated expertise in architectural design and detailed specification writing for large-scale federal or historic projects.
Proven experience in project management, including managing interdisciplinary teams and construction contracts.
Technical proficiency in interior environmental design and structural/aesthetic assessment.
Strong communication skills for coordinating with project stakeholders, contractors, and agency leadership.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive medical and life insurance options.
✓Federal flexible spending accounts.
✓Access to student loan repayment and forgiveness programs.
✓Opportunities for professional development within the legislative branch.
✓Potential for annual leave accrual credit based on prior relevant work experience.

💡 How to Apply Architect Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Architect Job

Create a profile on USAJOBS and ensure your resume is updated.
Complete the online vacancy assessment questionnaire thoroughly.
Submit your resume and questionnaire electronically via the USAJOBS platform.
Monitor your account for status updates regarding your application.
Prepare to provide supporting documents (diplomas, transcripts, proof of veteran status) if contacted for an interview.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience with architectural design, specifications, and project management.
Be precise with employment dates, including month, day, and year, to accurately calculate specialized experience.
Review your responses to the self-assessment questionnaire to ensure they align directly with the evidence in your resume.
Address technical issues immediately by contacting the provided help desk before the closing date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a permanent position?

No, this is a temporary appointment not to exceed 13 months, based on specific project needs and funding availability.

What level of education is required?

A degree in architecture or a related field with at least 60 semester hours in architectural design and related technical disciplines.

Do I need to submit my college transcripts now?

Not at the initial application stage. Only your resume and the online questionnaire are required initially. Documentation may be requested during the selection process.

Job from Architect Of The Capitol

The Architect of the Capitol serves as the steward of the buildings and grounds of Capitol Hill. With responsibility for over 18.4 million square feet of space, the agency preserves, maintains, and operates the infrastructure that allows Congress to function. Guided by core values of Respect, Integrity, Safety, and Empowerment (RISE), the AOC provides an environment where design and history intersect.