HOK

Architecture - Specification Writer

HOK$90K — $120K *
Real Estate & Construction
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in architecture, engineering, or construction management required.
  • 10 years of architectural practice, with at least 3 years in specifications development.
  • Experience in large, multi-phase projects preferred.
  • Registered Architect or equivalent credentials preferred.
  • LEED accreditation or Green Associate preferred.
  • CDT or higher certification from the Construction Specifications Institute preferred.
  • Experience with Design Build Project Procurement preferred.

Responsibilities

  • Review drawings and project information to write and edit specifications, ensuring compliance with all standards.
  • Translate project design requirements into detailed procurement and installation instructions for building components.
  • Prepare and review project documentation and materials for procurement, including alignment with HOK standards.
  • Provide knowledgeable input on material selection for sustainable certifications like LEED.
  • Assist project teams with technical advice and quality management during all phases of design and construction.
  • Collaborate with vendors and maintain relationships to support project needs and specifications.
  • Contribute to the development and continual improvement of HOK Master Specifications and integrate them into the Building SMART initiative.

Benefits

  • Hybrid work environment.
  • 10 paid holidays including 2 floating holidays.
  • Minimum of 4 weeks paid time off with cash-out option.
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Free mental wellness resources and additional life coverage.
  • 4 weeks paid parental leave and fertility coverage.
  • 401(K) plan with matching contributions and retirement planning support.
Full Job Description
Develops detailed project specifications and assists project team in coordinating and interpreting contract documents.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Leadership
  • Reviews drawings and other project information to write and edit specifications for projects and coordinates compliance with project requirements, institutional guidelines, HOK standards, technical conditions, acceptable standards, and existing laws, rules, regulations, and codes.
  • Understands the project design and delivery requirements and translates those requirements into materials, methods, equipment, procedures, installation, and certification testing necessary to provide the narrative descriptions which are used to procure, install, and erect building components. Is cognizant of how projects are organized into multiple bid packages and comprehends how these packages make up a full project.
  • Prepare and review the procurement and contracting requirements, including the Division 1 General Requirement sections. Works with owner-provided contract forms and processes and aligns their requirements with HOK standard forms and specification sections.
  • Reviews sustainability targets and provides knowledgeable input on material product selection for LEED and other types of certifications.
  • Provides resources for project teams to research products and review RFI submittals.
  • Assists with quality management reviews and technical advice in design development through construction document phases.
  • Works collaboratively with the specifications group across HOK.
  • Develops and maintains relationships with vendors both at the local and national levels. Can act as a resource for teams and connect them with vendors.
  • Provides continual development and improvement of HOK Master Specifications including its specialized content for project type or regional conditions as well as sustainable content.
  • Responsible for integration of specifications into the building SMART initiative including Smartsheet.
  • Takes personal responsibility for fostering a green workplace through sustainable work practices.
  • Fosters a culture of external and internal client service.


Teamwork
  • Assists project managers with review and coordination of project agreements relative to professional service and general condition issues.
  • Assists project architects and project designers with material and system constructability analysis.
  • Assists project architects with shop drawing and product substitution review.
  • Coordinates and reviews consultant technical specifications for conformance with HOK standards.
  • May conduct internal specifications training.
  • Participates in developing and improving HOK document standards and best practice procedures.
  • Collaborates with HOK specification writers in other offices on regular calls and some workload sharing.


EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
  • Bachelor's degree in architecture, engineering, construction management or equivalent in education or experience required.
  • 10 years in architectural practice including at least 3 years experience in specifications development.
  • Experience in large, multi-phase projects is preferred.
  • Registered Architect with current license preferred.
  • NCARB registration preferred.
  • LEED accreditation or Green Associate preferred.
  • Construction Specifications Institute CDT or better preferred.
  • Experience with Design Build Project Procurement preferred.


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.
  • Strong knowledge of building envelope components, interior plans and material requirements of all building and facility types. Advanced knowledge in one or more types such as Laboratory, Courthouse, Justice, and/or Healthcare specifications preferred. Experience in institutional projects is preferred.
  • Strong knowledge of building codes and ability to research and apply/incorporate into technical documents.
  • Experience in working with institutional clients and state agencies.
  • Comfortable using tools such as Bluebeam and Smartsheet for document review and comment; and able to participate in multi-person document review meetings.
  • Strong knowledge of sustainability, integrated design and LEED guidelines and Design/Build project delivery method
  • Proficiency in Deltek Masterspec.
  • 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 be responsive to multiple deadlines.
  • Ability to work independently and as a resource to a team environment.
  • Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

#LI-HYBRID #LI-WK1

Many of our roles require the use of specific software. Please refer to the Required and Preferred Software & Skills for details.

HOK invests in its people and communities, supporting both personal and professional growth through every stage of life. At HOK you'll have a hybrid work environment, 10 paid holidays (including 2 floating holidays) and a minimum of 4 weeks of paid time off with a cash out option. HOK offers comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, free mental wellness resources, life and AD&D coverage and short and long-term disability benefits. HOK supports your growing family by offering 4 weeks of paid parental leave and fertility coverage. HOK helps to fund your future financial needs with matching contributions to our 401(K) plan which includes a well-rounded investment menu as well as free guidance on retirement planning.

Wherever you are in your career, HOK provides opportunities to learn, develop and utilize your skills. Continued learning is promoted through financial support and study prep for licensure exams, CEU credit opportunities, mentorship programs, and paid professional memberships. To learn more about designing your career with HOK, explore our current job openings.

About HOK

HOK is a global architectural firm that specializes in designing buildings and spaces that are innovative, sustainable, and functional. The company was founded in 1955 and has since grown to become one of the largest architecture firms in the world. HOK has completed projects in over 60 countries and has won numerous awards for its work. The company is committed to sustainability and has a number of initiatives in place to reduce its environmental impact. HOK is also known for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, and has been recognized for its efforts in this area.
Learn more about HOK
Size
1,700 employees
Industry

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