Specification Writer

HOK designs buildings and spaces that respond to the needs ofpeople and the environment. Our designers are rooted in technical excellence,driven by imagination and focused on a solitary goal : to deliver solutions thatinspire clients and communities.

We are currently seeking a Specification Writer to join our team in Texas (Dallas, Houston or Austin). As a Specification Writer, you are responsible for developing detailed project specifications and assisting the project team in coordinating contract documents.

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 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.
• Prepares and reviews the procurement and contracting requirements, including the Division 1 General Requirement sections.
• Reviews LEED scorecard and provides knowledgeable input on material product selection for LEED certification.
• Provides project budget input related to product and system value choices regarding cost versus quality.
• Performs product research; assists project designers with material selection and system research.
• Provides quality management reviews and technical advice in design development through construction document phases.
• Acts as a risk management resource to other project leaders.
• Develops and maintains relationships 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 buildingSMART initiative.
• 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.
• Participates in project life cycle cost analysis.
• Maintains technical resource library and list of technical resource contacts.
• Archives technical files to ensure consistent project milestone documentation.
• May conduct internal specifications training.
• Participates in developing and improving HOK document standards and best practice procedures.

Required Skills

• 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.

• Strong knowledge of building codes and ability to research and apply / incorporate into technical documents.
• Strong knowledge of sustainability, integrated design and LEED guidelines.
• Proficiency in specifications software programs such as e-SPECS preferred.
• Proficiency in MS Office, including Word, Excel and Outlook required. Formatting and editing skills are essential.
• Ability to produce a well-coordinated, detail-oriented, fully integrated Project Manual.
• Ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously and produce results within deadline.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in architecture or engineering or equivalent in education or experience required. Master’s degree preferred.
• 5 years of experience in architectural practice with prior experience in specifications development.
• Registered Architect with current license preferred.
• NCARB registration preferred.
• LEED accreditation or Green Associate preferred.
• Construction Specifications Institute Certification preferred.
• HOK is committed to providing our employees with a comprehensive benefits plan to meet their current and future needs. Benefits include medical, dental and vision coverage;

401(K) savings plans; disability, life and accident insurance; paid time off (PTO); and parental leave. In addition, HOK employees enjoy a flexible work schedule with the option to work remotely on Mondays and Fridays.

HOK is a drug-free workplace.