specification writer

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience).

• Licensed

  • Required: CSI Certified Construction Specifier (CSS)

• 10+ years of professional experience

• Firm Expectations:

  • This role serves as a technical authority on materials, products, standards, and construction practices, ensuring alignment between drawings, specifications, codes, and owner requirements. The position works closely with architects, engineers, consultants, and quality control teams throughout all phases of design and construction.

  • Implement the brand and vision of success into the culture of the general staff by leading by example

  • Servant leadership is critical at all levels, but especially as link between senior leadership and the younger staff

  • Fully committed to the decision made by the Principals.

  • Ability to grow, lead, and develop a dedicated specifications team as firm grows.

• Software Skills; High proficiency in:

  • Specification software (e.g., MasterSpec, BSD SpecLink, Conspectus, or similar) and standard office tools.

• Technical Skills:

  • Extensive knowledge of CSI formats, construction materials, and building systems.

  • Strong understanding of construction documents, building codes, and industry standards.

  • Experience with large-scale, complex, or multi-disciplinary projects (e.g., higher education, healthcare, civic, sports, or infrastructure).

  • Familiarity with sustainable design requirements (LEED, WELL, or similar)

  • Experience working within BIM-based project workflows.

  • Advanced knowledge of architectural materials, building assemblies, and construction methods.

• Collaboration and Communication Skills:

  • Excellent written communication skills with strong attention to detail and organization.

  • Mentor junior technical staff to understand specifications and coordination with drawings.

  • Contribute to the development and maintenance of office master specifications and specification standards.

  • Assist in improving specification workflows, tools, and best practices across the firm. 

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the development and maintenance of office master specifications and specification standards.

• Prepare, edit, and maintain comprehensive project specifications for projects of varying size and complexity.

• Develop Division 00 and Divisions 01–49 specifications in accordance with CSI MasterFormat, SectionFormat, and PageFormat standards.

• Customize master specifications to project-specific requirements, delivery methods, and owner standards.

• Ensure consistency and coordination between specifications, drawings, and other contract documents.

• Serve as a technical resource for architects, engineers, and project teams regarding materials, products, systems, and construction methods.

• Review consultant specifications for completeness, coordination, and compliance with project standards.

• Evaluate substitutions, product options, and proprietary systems in collaboration with design teams.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of building codes, industry standards, and regulatory requirements.

• Ensure specifications comply with applicable codes, accessibility standards, sustainability criteria, and owner requirements.

• Participate in quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) reviews of contract documents prior to issuance.

• Support the construction administration phase by responding to RFIs, reviewing submittals for conformance to specifications, and assisting with specification interpretations.

• Provide technical input related to change orders, substitutions, and material performance issues.