Senior Specification Writer

Perkins&Will • New York, NY

2d • $110,000 - $154,700

About The Position

Perkins&Will is seeking a Senior Specifications Writer to serve as a trusted technical advisor and lead the development of project specifications and procurement documentation. The role supports design excellence, constructability, quality, sustainability, and risk management across complex projects. Working closely with architects, designers, consultants, and clients, the Senior Specifications Writer provides technical leadership throughout project delivery and helps advance firmwide specifications standards, best practices, and knowledge sharing.

Requirements

• At least 8 years of experience in architectural specifications, architecture, engineering, interior design, construction, or a related design and construction discipline, including significant experience preparing and coordinating specifications for large, complex, or technically challenging projects.
• Postsecondary degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Advanced knowledge of construction documentation, project delivery methods, building materials and systems, building codes, and CSI standards.
• Ability to evaluate technical risks, develop effective specification strategies, influence project decisions, and manage multiple priorities while maintaining exceptional quality standards.
• Strong communication, collaboration, leadership, and organizational skills.

Nice To Haves

• CDT (Construction Documents Technologist) and/or CCS (Certified Construction Specifier) credential.
• Professional degree, certification, or active licensure in architecture, engineering, interior design, or a related field; licensure is preferred but not required.
• Experience with Division 00 procurement documents, bidding processes, addenda, submittals, substitutions, and RFIs.
• Experience supporting sustainable, regenerative, high-performance, or resilient design projects.
• Proficiency with RIB SpecLink, Deltek Specpoint, Bluebeam Revu, and Microsoft Office applications.
• Active engagement in professional organizations such as CSI, AIA, or related industry associations.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development, including advanced sustainability or regenerative design credentials such as LEED AP, WELL AP, Living Future Accreditation (LFA), SITES AP, BREEAM AP, Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification, or Passive House certification.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, coordination, and delivery of construction specifications, project manuals, procurement documentation, and related deliverables for complex projects and project portfolios.
• Develop coordinated specifications aligned with design intent, drawings, codes, owner requirements, delivery methods, and quality standards, identifying and mitigating technical, constructability, and documentation risks.
• Advise project teams on specification strategy, building materials, assemblies, systems, product selection, sustainability, and risk management.
• Provide senior-level support during bidding and construction administration, including addenda, submittals, substitutions, RFIs, and other technical documentation reviews.
• Collaborate with clients, consultants, contractors, and multidisciplinary teams to support project outcomes and informed decision-making.
• Mentor team members and contribute to firmwide standards, master specifications, technical resources, knowledge sharing, training, and continuous improvement initiatives.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Associate degree