Specifications Writer

Perkins&Will • New York, NY

2d • $80,000 - $120,000

About The Position

At Perkins&Will, the Specifications Writer develops and coordinates project specifications and procurement documentation to support design excellence, constructability, sustainability, and successful project delivery. Working with architects, designers, consultants, and clients, the role translates design intent, building systems, and material selections into clear, coordinated construction documentation.

The position prepares and maintains specifications and project manuals, coordinates documentation with drawings and project requirements, and reviews materials for conflicts, omissions, accuracy, and quality. It also provides technical expertise on materials, assemblies, systems, construction methods, and products; supports teams during bidding and construction administration; and contributes to firm standards, technical resources, sustainable design initiatives, and knowledge-sharing across the national specifications community.

Requirements

• 2–8 years of experience in specifications, architecture, engineering, interior design, construction, or a related design and construction discipline, including at least 2 years preparing and coordinating construction specifications.
• Postsecondary degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Working knowledge of construction documents, building materials and assemblies, building codes, project delivery practices, and CSI standards.
• Strong organizational, communication, and quality-control skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

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.
• Experience with Division 00 procurement requirements, 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, Microsoft Word, and Microsoft Excel.
• Active participation in professional organizations such as CSI, AIA, or related industry associations.
• Interest in pursuing professional development through CDT and CCS certification and advanced sustainability 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

• Prepare, coordinate, and maintain construction specifications, outline specifications, project manuals, and procurement documentation.
• Coordinate specifications with project drawings, design intent, applicable codes, owner requirements, and project delivery methods.
• Review documentation for conflicts, omissions, and coordination issues, and ensure accuracy, consistency, and quality before issuance.
• Provide technical expertise on building materials, assemblies, systems, construction methods, and product selections.
• Support project teams during bidding and construction administration, including addenda, submittals, substitutions, RFIs, and related technical reviews.
• Collaborate with clients, consultants, and multidisciplinary teams throughout project delivery.
• Contribute to firm standards, master specifications, technical resources, and sustainable design initiatives.
• Share knowledge and best practices across Perkins&Will's national specifications community and support team development as appropriate.

What This Job Offers

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