Architectural Specification Writer

Responsibilities

• Leadership Review architectural drawings and project information to write and edit project specifications in accordance with project requirements, institutional guidelines, HOK standards, technical conditions, and applicable codes, laws, rules, and regulations.
• Interpret project design and delivery requirements, translating this information into detailed materials, methods, equipment, installation procedures, and certification testing requirements needed to procure and construct building components.
• Prepare and review procurement and contracting requirements, including Division 01 General Requirements, while aligning owner-provided contract forms and processes with HOK standards.
• Review sustainability goals and provide informed guidance on material selection to support LEED and other certifications.
• Provide resources for project teams to research products and review RFI submittals.
• Provide quality management reviews and offer technical expertise throughout design development and construction documentation phases.
• Collaborate closely with the firmwide specifications team to ensure consistency, knowledge sharing, and best practices.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with local and national vendors and serve as a resource connecting project teams with product representatives.
• Contribute to the ongoing development and enhancement of the firm's Master Specifications, including project-type-specific content, regional conditions, and sustainable content.
• Support integration of specifications into digital project deliver tools, including HOK's Project Quality Management initiatives and Smartsheet collaboration workflows.
• Take personal responsibility for fostering a green workplace through sustainable work practices.
• Foster a culture of external and internal client service.
• Act as a risk management resource to other project leaders.

Requirements

• Absolutely required: Bachelor’s degree in architecture, engineering, construction management, or a related field; minimum 10 years in architectural practice, including at least 3 years of direct experience in specification writing/development.
• Preferred: Registered Architect with current license, NCARB certification, LEED accreditation or LEED Green Associate, CSI Construction Documents Technologist (CDT) or higher certification, experience with design-build project delivery.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of architectural design, engineering coordination, design trends, products, construction methodology, building systems, material application, and manufacturer-supplier appropriateness.
• Strong knowledge of construction procedures and schedules.
• Advanced knowledge in one or more types such as Laboratory, Courthouse, Justice, and/or Healthcare specifications preferred.
• Strong knowledge of building codes and ability to research and apply/incorporate into technical documents.
• Strong knowledge of sustainability, integrated design, and LEED guidelines.
• Proficiency in specifications software programs such as e-SPECS preferred.
• Proficiency in MS Office, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Ability to produce a well-coordinated, detail-oriented, fully integrated project manual.
• Ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously and produce results within deadlines.
• Ability to work both independently and in a team environment.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of architectural design, engineering coordination, design trends, products, construction methodology, building systems, material application, and manufacturer-supplier appropriateness.
• Strong knowledge of construction procedures and schedules.
• Advanced knowledge in one or more types such as Laboratory, Courthouse, Justice, and/or Healthcare specifications preferred.
• Strong knowledge of building codes and ability to research and apply/incorporate into technical documents.
• Strong knowledge of sustainability, integrated design, and LEED guidelines.
• Proficiency in specifications software programs such as e-SPECS preferred.
• Proficiency in MS Office, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Ability to produce a well-coordinated, detail-oriented, fully integrated project manual.
• Ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously and produce results within deadlines.
• Ability to work both independently and in a team environment.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

Benefits

• Hybrid work environment.
• 10 paid holidays (including 2 floating holidays).
• Minimum of 4 weeks of paid time off with a cash out option.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Free mental wellness resources.
• Life and AD&D coverage and short and long-term disability benefits.
• 4 weeks of paid parental leave and fertility coverage.
• Matching contributions to our 401(K) plan which includes a well-rounded investment menu as well as free guidance on retirement planning.

Pay

Competitive salary commensurate with experience.

Schedule

Full-time position.