Specification Writer

To perform in this position successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. _

**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 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.
- Prepare and review the procurement and contracting requirements, including the Division 1 General Requirement sections.
- 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**:
**SKILLS & COMPETENCIES**:

- 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. Understanding of structural, mechanical, and electrical requirements is considered an asset.
- Strong knowledge of building codes and ability to research and apply/incorporate into technical documents.
- Understanding 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.
- 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.

Required Experience

Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in architecture or engineering or equivalent in education or experience required. Master’s degree preferred.
- 5 years in architectural practice with prior experience in specifications development or 5 years as a contract administrator or project manager coordinating project specifications, product and material selections, and/or technical standards and requirements in an architectural practice, engineering practice, or worker for a contractor or as part of a facilities management team.
- LEED accreditation or Green Associate is considered an asset.
- Member of Construction Specifications Canada preferred
- Successful completion of any of the following is considered an asset: CSC Principles of Construction Documentation (PCD), CSC Specifier 1 and 2., CSC Construction Contract Administrator, PMP certification is considered an asset or any related equivalent courses.

**OTHER**:

- Some travel may be required.
- Some overtime may be required.
- The job duties and requirements that this document describes may be altered or supplemented at any time at the sole discretion of HOK.

HOK is committed to providing our employees with a comprehensive benefits plan to meet their current and future needs. Benefits include med