Specifications Writer

Join a team where design meets purpose. At RLF, our mission is to create high-performing environments that inspire and nurture the human spirit. For over 90 years, we have been a nationally recognized architecture, engineering, and interior design firm. With a focus on healthcare and federal projects, we deliver impactful, innovative spaces that shape communities and improve lives. We create exceptional places for extraordinary people. We’re a passionate, collaborative team that values excellence, relationships, and fun.

About the role

RLF is seeking an experienced Specifications Writer to help ensure the quality, consistency, and technical accuracy of our project documents across a diverse portfolio of projects. The Specifications Writer is responsible for preparing, editing, and maintaining technical specifications for architectural and engineering projects. This role collaborates closely with architects, engineers, interior designers, and project managers to ensure specifications are coordinated with construction documents, comply with applicable codes and industry standards, and reflect RLF's quality expectations.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the firm's specification resource, assisting project teams with technical questions, reviewing architect-written specifications, and ensuring consistency, accuracy, and coordination across projects.
• Mentor and support architects and designers in developing project specifications by providing technical expertise, reviewing specification content, and promoting consistency with firm standards.
• Prepare, edit, and coordinate project specifications for architectural, engineering, and interior design projects as needed.
• Participate in quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) reviews of construction documents.
• Coordinate specifications with drawings throughout all phases of design to ensure consistency and accuracy.
• Collaborate with project managers, architects, engineers, and consultants to identify project-specific requirements and product selections to complete project manuals utilizing CSI MasterFormat standards.
• Support project teams during proposal development, design, and construction documentation by responding to specification-related questions and preparing revisions as needed.
• Research and evaluate building materials, products, and construction methods for inclusion in project specifications.
• Help maintain and update the firm's master specifications to reflect evolving codes, industry standards, and best practices.
• Verify compliance with applicable building codes, accessibility requirements, sustainability standards, client requirements, and project-specific criteria.
• Review manufacturer information and technical literature to ensure appropriate product selection and specification language.
• Stay current with emerging building products, construction technologies, and specification writing practices.
• Understand project contract requirements and work within the scope of work to direct the project team on materials and methods required.
• Coordinate with the Specifications team to ensure project specification documents, revisions, and related records are accurate, current, and incorporated into the project documentation.
• Review published materials and recommend revisions or changes in scope, format, content, and methods of reproduction and binding.
• Study drawings, specifications, mockups, and product samples to integrate and delineate technology, operating procedure, and production sequence and detail.
• Support the Specifications team by coordinating documentation and specifications to promote quality, consistency, alignment with project milestones, and efficient project execution.
• Champion continuous improvement initiatives by enhancing specification standards, workflows, templates, and internal best practices.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture, Engineering, or related field.
• Licensed Architect (RA), Professional Engineer (PE), or an equivalent combination of specifications experience and professional credentials (e.g., CCS, CDT) will be considered.
• 8 years of progressive experience within the Specifications discipline in architectural, design, engineering, and/or construction firms.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and emotional intelligence skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy, organization, attention to detail, and quality in a deadline-driven environment.
• Excellent client service focus, multitasking, and organizational skills.
• Exceptional relationship-building and collaboration skills, with a commitment to delivering outstanding client service.
• Strong dedication to continuous professional development and growth.
• Flexibility in scheduling or work hours to support client expectations, project milestones, and team deliverables.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365, Bluebeam, Deltek Vantagepoint, SpecsIntact, Specpoint/MasterSpec.
• Experience with Deltek Specpoint, Newforma, BIM 360 a plus.
• Certified Construction Specifier (CCS) certification preferred.
• Construction Documents Technologist (CDT) certification is a plus.
• Active participation in professional organizations, such as the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI), including local chapter involvement, a plus.
• LEED Certification a plus.

Benefits

• Flexible Work Schedules
• Hybrid office (In-office T, W, Th; WFH M, F)
• PTO and holidays
• Paid Health, Dental, and Vision Coverage
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Paid Short & Long-Term Disability
• Paid Life and AD&D benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Supplemental Life and Ancillary Insurance Options
• Professional Certification Reimbursement
• Professional Organization Membership Reimbursement
• Wellness Incentives
• Tuition Assistance
• Student Loan Assistance
• Identity Theft Plan and Legal Plan
• Volunteer Time Off
• Pet Insurance

Schedule

This position may require occasional travel, some of which may be international. Flexibility in scheduling or work hours to support client expectations, project milestones, and team deliverables.

RLF conducts background checks and drug screening after an offer of employment has been made. Criminal history will not automatically disqualify a candidate. During employment, individuals may be required by RLF or an RLF client to successfully complete additional background checks, including motor vehicle record as well as drug testing.