Architecture - Specification Writer

HOK•New York, NY

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

Develops detailed project specifications and assists project team in coordinating and interpreting contract documents. This role involves reviewing drawings and project information to write and edit specifications, ensuring compliance with project requirements, institutional guidelines, HOK standards, technical conditions, acceptable standards, and existing laws, rules, regulations, and codes. The Specification Writer translates design and delivery requirements into materials, methods, equipment, procedures, installation, and testing necessary for building components. They understand project organization into bid packages and prepare/review procurement and contracting requirements, including Division 1 General Requirements. The role also involves working with owner-provided contract forms, aligning them with HOK standards, and providing input on material selection for LEED and other certifications. Additionally, the Specification Writer provides resources for product research, assists with quality management reviews, collaborates with the specifications group, develops vendor relationships, and contributes to the improvement of HOK Master Specifications, including sustainable content and integration into the building SMART initiative. They are responsible for fostering a green workplace and a culture of client service.

Requirements

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.
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.
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.

Nice To Haves

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.
Advanced knowledge in one or more such types as Laboratory, Courthouse, Justice, and/or Healthcare specifications preferred.
Experience in institutional projects is preferred.

Responsibilities

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 submittments.
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.
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.