Specifications Writer

Zeidler Partnership Architects; Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking an Architectural Specifications Writer to join their dynamic team. This role is pivotal in ensuring consistency in specifications across various projects while mentoring teams through all project phases. You will collaborate on sustainable practices, manage material libraries, and support tender and construction administration. If you are passionate about architecture and sustainability, and thrive in a collaborative environment, this opportunity offers a chance to grow your career while contributing to meaningful projects that shape communities.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of experience in architectural specifications writing required.
• Strong expertise in sustainable design and material selection is essential.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain standardized specifications aligned with best practices.
• Guide project teams in integrating specifications throughout all project phases.

Skills

Architectural Specifications Writing

Sustainable Design

Building Codes Knowledge

Communication Skills

Mentorship

Contract Administration

Education

10+ years experience in architectural specifications writing

Registered with CSC or CSI (preferred)

Tools

Specification Software

BIM Platforms

Job description

As a leading Canadian architectural practice, Zeidler designs meaningful spaces that contribute to the community and deliver lasting value. With offices in Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver and Victoria, we offer full architectural and interior design services.

Propelled by curiosity and driven by human connection, our creative process is based on cultivating the potential of our team. We nurture our expertise through mentorship and continuous learning. We listen to, consider, and build on each other’s ideas to develop thoughtful solutions that address complex challenges.

Our award-winning work spans a broad range of sectors including academic, healthcare, residential, mixed-use, commercial, cultural and civic. As we continue to grow our national practice, we are seeking talented individuals who embrace creative, passionate, and forward-thinking approaches to join our dynamic team.

What we are seeking

We are seeking an Architectural Specifications Writer to support all projects across the firm. This key role will ensure consistency in specifications, mentor teams in the development of projects through all phases and provide expertise during tender and construction administration. The Specifications Writer will also contribute to the development of design briefs and project execution from inception to completion. Duties include:

• Firmwide Specification Consistency: Develop and maintain standardized specifications aligned with best practices, sustainability goals, and evolving industry standards.
• Project Support & Mentorship: Guide project teams in integrating specifications throughout all project phases, ensuring accuracy, quality, and efficiency.
• Sustainability & Innovation: Collaborate with teams to implement sustainable materials and practices within specifications, aligning with the firm’s sustainability objectives. Develop and maintain a blacklist of products that do not meet sustainability best practices, ensuring material selections align with environmental, health, and performance standards.
• Tender & Construction Administration Support: Participate in tender reviews, RFI responses, submittal reviews, and change management to ensure specification compliance and minimize risks.
• Design Brief Development: Work with project teams to develop design briefs, ensuring specifications align with project vision, performance criteria, and client expectations.
• Material Library & Industry Engagement: Maintain and update the firm’s material library with the latest samples and product information. Actively engage with vendors and manufacturers to stay informed on new and innovative materials, ensuring project teams have access to the best and most relevant options for design and performance.
• Cross-Sector Experience: Support projects across diverse sectors, including commercial, institutional, residential, cultural, and government.

What you will bring

• Minimum 10 years of experience in architectural specifications writing.
• Deep understanding of building codes, construction materials, and industry standards in Canada.
• Experience working with projects of various scales and sectors (private and government)
• Strong expertise in sustainable design and material selection.
• Familiarity with contract administration, tendering, and procurement processes.
• Excellent communication and mentorship skills to guide teams.
• Must be available for full-time, in-office work at one of our four Canadian locations.
• Proficiency in specification software and BIM platforms is an asset.
• Registered with CSC (Construction Specifications Canada) or CSI (Construction Specifications Institute) is preferred.

Salary Range

$90,000–$140,000/year

What to do now

If you are a motivated, creative, and inspired individual who has the ambition to grow and enjoys working in a collaborative, exciting, and fast-paced environment surrounded by challenging opportunities, we would like to hear from you. Please apply here: Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto.

Zeidler is committed to equal opportunity for all employees and applicants, and stands by our principles for a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace. Applications from all qualified candidates are welcome and we encourage applications from, but not limited to visible minorities, peoples with disabilities, racialized peoples, Indigenous peoples, and persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities.

Please let us know by email or by telephone at 403-233-2525 if you require any accommodations throughout the interview process. We will make all reasonable efforts to accommodate.