Frequently Asked Questions about Architect of the Capitol Careers

The Architect of the Capitol (AOC) is the federal agency responsible for the maintenance, operation, development, and preservation of the United States Capitol Complex, which includes the Capitol, the Senate and House Office Buildings, the Supreme Court Building, the Library of Congress Building, and the surrounding grounds. The AOC is also responsible for the care and maintenance of the grounds of the United States Capitol and the monuments located on them.

The Architect of the Capitol offers a wide range of jobs, including engineering, construction, grounds maintenance, custodial, administrative, and IT positions.

The Architect of the Capitol (AOC) is the federal agency responsible for the maintenance, operation, development, and preservation of the United States Capitol Complex, which includes the Capitol, the Senate and House Office Buildings, the Capitol Visitor Center, and the Capitol Grounds. The position of Architect of the Capitol was established by the U.S. Congress in 1852, making it one of the oldest federal agencies in the United States. The first Architect of the Capitol was Thomas U. Walter, who was appointed by President Millard Fillmore in 1851. Walter was responsible for overseeing the construction of the new Capitol Dome, which was completed in 1865. While Walter was in charge, several other projects were completed, including the construction of the Senate and House Office Buildings, the extension of the north and south wings of the Capitol, and the creation of the Capitol Grounds. Walter served as Architect of the Capitol for nearly 40 years, the longest tenure of any Architect in history. He was followed by Edward Clark, who served from 1891 to 1897. Under Clark’s direction, several of the existing buildings on the Capitol Grounds were renovated and expanded. In 1899, William Thornton became the third Architect of the Capitol. During his tenure, he oversaw the renovation of the Capitol Dome and the construction of the Library of Congress. Theodore W. Link was appointed Architect of the Capitol in 1911. During his tenure, he oversaw the construction of the Supreme Court Building, the Russell Senate Office Building, the Dirksen Senate Office Building, and the Cannon House Office Building. In 1972, J. George Stewart became the sixth Architect of the Capitol. During his tenure, he oversaw the construction of the Capitol Visitor Center, the Hart Senate Office Building, and the Thurgood Marshall Federal Judiciary Building. In 2014, Stephen T. Ayers became the seventh Architect of the Capitol, serving until 2021. During his tenure, he oversaw the construction of the Capitol Power Plant, the renovation of the Cannon House Office Building, and the construction of the Capitol Visitor Center expansion.

The Architect of the Capitol is responsible for the maintenance, operation, development, and preservation of the United States Capitol Complex, which includes the Capitol, House and Senate Office Buildings, the Library of Congress, the Supreme Court Building, the U.S. Botanic Garden, and other facilities. The Architect of the Capitol also provides the members of Congress, the Supreme Court, and other government agencies with professional advice on the preservation and utilization of the Capitol Complex.

The Architect of the Capitol typically requires a bachelor's degree in an architecture, engineering, construction management, or related field for positions that involve the technical design and construction of buildings, grounds, and other structures. Additionally, applicants should possess a minimum of three years of experience in a related field and a valid driver's license. Furthermore, some positions may require professional licensure or certification in a related field.

The Architect of the Capitol offers a wide range of benefits, including health, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance; long-term disability insurance; a retirement savings plan; flexible spending accounts; and a variety of employee assistance programs. Employees also receive paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays, and can take advantage of educational and training opportunities.

The Architect of the Capitol pays salaries based on the General Schedule (GS) pay scale, which ranges from GS-5 (with a salary of $32,955 per year) to GS-15 (with a salary of $123,234 per year).

The application process for jobs with the Architect of the Capitol consists of the following steps: 1. Create an account and profile on USAJOBS.gov 2. Search the Architect of the Capitol’s job postings and select the position that best fits your qualifications. 3. Submit a current resume, cover letter, and any other required documents. 4. Complete an online assessment and/or interview with a member of the Architect of the Capitol’s staff. 5. Receive a conditional offer of employment. 6. Complete the background investigation process and other security clearances. 7. Receive a final offer of employment.

The hiring process for an Architect of the Capitol (AOC) can vary depending on the position and the number of applicants. Generally, the hiring process can take anywhere from three to six months to complete. In the first stage of the hiring process, applicants may be asked to submit a resume, work samples, and a list of references. The AOC will then review the applications and select a few candidates for an interview. After the interview, the AOC will conduct background checks, reference checks, and other assessments. Once all of the necessary checks have been completed, a hiring decision will be made and the successful candidate will be notified.

Yes, you may apply for multiple jobs with the Architect of the Capitol. However, you must meet the qualifications for each job you apply for, and you cannot apply for the same job more than once.

The Architect of the Capitol (AOC) provides a variety of training opportunities for employees. The AOC Learning Management System offers a variety of instructor-led, online courses and webinars. The AOC also provides live training sessions, workshops, conferences, and seminars. Additionally, the AOC partners with private training organizations to provide specialized training opportunities.

In order to qualify for benefits at the Architect of the Capitol, you must have worked at least 12 consecutive months or 1,040 hours within the last 12 months.

Advancement opportunities at the Architect of the Capitol may include: • Promotions within current position • Job rotation programs • Cross-training and development • Mentoring programs • Learning and development courses • On-the-job training and assignments • Tuition reimbursement • Leadership development programs • Certification programs • Professional associations and networking opportunities • Special assignments and task forces • Attending conferences and workshops

The Architect of the Capitol (AOC) employs a wide variety of professionals, including architects, engineers, landscape architects, horticulturists, historic preservationists, landscape technicians, administrative professionals, custodial staff, security personnel, and more. The AOC also offers paid internships and cooperative education programs for college-level students.

The Architect of the Capitol provides paid vacation leave to full-time and part-time employees. Full-time employees who have completed one year of service are eligible for 13 days of paid vacation leave annually. Part-time employees who have completed one year of service are eligible for up to 6 days of paid vacation leave annually. Vacation leave may be taken in increments of at least one day and is subject to the approval of the employee's supervisor.

The Architect of the Capitol typically has a business casual dress code. This typically includes collared shirts, dress slacks or skirts, and dress shoes. Denim and T-shirts are generally not allowed.

The Architect of the Capitol (AOC) is committed to providing a workplace that is respectful, safe, and professionally rewarding. The AOC strives to create an environment that is collaborative, productive, and supportive. The AOC encourages employee input and participation in decision-making, and provides opportunities for professional growth and development. The AOC also promotes a healthy work/life balance and encourages employees to take advantage of benefits such as flexible work schedules, telework, and alternative work arrangements.

The Architect of the Capitol (AOC) hiring process consists of a series of steps that applicants must complete to be considered for a position. The steps include: 1. Submit an online application, including a resume and cover letter. 2. Participate in a telephone or video interview. 3. Participate in a panel interview. 4. Receive a job offer. 5. Complete a background check. 6. Attend a new hire orientation. 7. Complete the onboarding paperwork. 8. Begin the job.

Yes. Depending on the position, the Architect of the Capitol may require candidates to possess certain qualifications, such as a valid driver's license, a degree in architecture or engineering, or experience in a related field. Additionally, the Architect of the Capitol may require other security clearances or specialized qualifications related to the specific position.

The Architect of the Capitol (AOC) offers a retirement plan to its eligible employees, known as the AOC Retirement Plan. Eligible employees include full-time, part-time, intermittent, and seasonal employees. The AOC Retirement Plan is a defined contribution plan that allows employees to contribute a portion of their pay to an individual retirement account (IRA) and to receive employer contributions to their account. The AOC Retirement Plan also offers a matching contribution for employees who contribute to their account. The matching contribution amount is based on a percentage of the employee’s contribution.