Registration in the Israeli Ministry of Defense Designers Pool
Want to Carry Out Design Work for the Israeli Ministry of Defense? How to Join the Designers Pool
Registration in the Designers Pool of the Israeli Ministry of Defense (Engineering and Construction Division) is a critical step for anyone who wants to take part in major national infrastructure and construction projects. This guide reviews the process, conditions, procedures and the rights of designers.
What Is the Ministry of Defense Designers Pool?
The Designers Pool of the Engineering and Construction Division is a closed list of architects, engineers and consultants who meet the Ministry of Defense’s strict requirements. Only designers in the pool may submit proposals or perform design work for the Ministry of Defense.
Registration Step by Step
1. Submitting the application
- The application is submitted to the unit for engagements with designers in the Engineering and Construction Division (according to the procedure).
- A dedicated form must be completed, signed and submitted with all required approvals, including: professional licence, business (osek murshe) or company certificate, professional CV and relevant experience, and a declaration of compliance with safety and security requirements.
2. Review and approval
- The unit checks that the form and documents are complete.
- Only designers with proven professional experience are included in the pool.
3. Keeping details up to date
- The designer must notify the Ministry of Defense of any change in details.
- Failure to update may lead to sanctions or suspension.
General Conditions for Registration
Under the Engineering and Construction Division’s supplier regulations, designers must meet the following conditions:
- Lawful registration in Israel (licensed business or company).
- Proven professional experience of at least 5 years in design.
- No criminal convictions or investigations.
- Sound financial standing: a valid bookkeeping certificate and withholding tax certificate.
- Compliance with information security and safety requirements.
The Professional Suspension Committee
When is the committee convened?
When a professional failure is found in a designer’s work, such as design defects, repeated failures or breach of contract, the Ministry of Defense may convene a professional committee to suspend designers.
Powers of the suspension committee
- Issuing a formal reprimand.
- Temporary or permanent suspension from the supplier pool.
- Conditioning further work on correcting defects, appointing an external supervisor or submitting an improvement plan.
- Cancelling the agreement or previous engagement decisions.
Possible consequences
- A negative record with other government bodies.
- Restrictions on participating in future tenders.
- Termination of engagement in ongoing projects.
Copyright: Who Owns the Work Product?
In an engagement with the Ministry of Defense, the designer must comply with the following:
- Every design deliverable (drawings, specifications, execution plans) may be considered the intellectual property of the Ministry of Defense.
- The designer may not reuse project deliverables without written approval.
- The designer undertakes to keep strictly confidential all material, drawings and information received in the engagement.
Safety in Design Work: A Threshold Condition
- Compliance with Israeli and international standards (for example ISO).
- Carrying out risk surveys and safety assessments in certain projects.
- Proof of participation in relevant training.
- Immediate reporting of faults or safety defects.
Submitting Invoices to the Ministry of Defense
- The Ministry of Defense uses an online “green invoice” system.
- The supplier must register in the system and submit digital invoices only.
- Required appendices and approvals must be attached, such as a signed completion form and safety officer approval.
- Without all the documents, the invoice will not be approved for payment.
Advantages of Registration in the Designers Pool
- Working with one of the largest public bodies in Israel.
- Prestigious projects at defense facilities.
- Regular and stable payment under the agreements.
- Growing your portfolio and professional experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does approval of registration take?
Usually 30 to 60 days, depending on the completeness of the documents and the background checks.
Can I register as an individual rather than a company?
Yes. A self-employed designer (licensed business) may register, provided all requirements are met.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes. In most cases a basic security clearance is required to carry out the work. See our guide on security clearance in Israel.
Want to Join the Ministry of Defense Designers Pool?
If you want to apply to join the Designers Pool of the Engineering and Construction Division, contact a lawyer experienced in representing suppliers before the Ministry of Defense. See also: registering as a recognized supplier with the Engineering and Construction Division.
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