Sr Specification Writer

HOK; Ottawa; Hybrid; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent architecture firm in Ottawa is seeking a Sr Specification Writer to develop detailed specifications and assist project teams. Candidates should have a degree in architecture and a minimum of 10 years experience in architectural practice. Proficiency in specification software like e-SPECS and strong communication skills are essential for this full-time role. The firm offers a competitive benefits plan and promotes a flexible work schedule.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

GRSP savings plans

Flexible work schedule

Paid time off (PTO)

Qualifications

• 10 years in architectural practice with prior experience in specifications development.
• Registered Architect or Architectural Technologist preferred.
• LEED accreditation or Green Associate preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed project specifications and coordinate contract documents.
• Assist project designers with material selection and system research.
• Review project information to ensure compliance with requirements.

Skills

Architectural design

Engineering coordination

Construction procedures

Building codes

Sustainability

Proficiency in specifications software

Proficient in MS Office

Effective communication

Education

Degree in architecture, architectural technology, or engineering

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

e-SPECS

MS Office

Job description

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HOK is a collective of future-forward thinkers and designers who are driven to face the critical challenges of our time. We are dedicated to improving people's lives, serving our clients and healing the planet. Together, we cultivate a culture of design excellence at the confluence of art and science, blending the power of creative expression with a clear sense of purpose.

Responsibilities

• Develops detailed project specifications and assists project team in coordinating contract documents.
• Leadership
• 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.
• Provides quality management reviews and technical advice in design development through construction document phases.
• Performs product research; assists project designers with material selection and system research.
• 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 building SMART initiative.
• Participates in project life cycle cost analysis.
• Maintains technical resource library and list of technical resource contacts.
• May conduct internal specifications training.
• Takes personal responsibility for fostering a green workplace through sustainable work practices.
• Fosters a culture of external and internal client service.
• Teamwork
• 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.
• Prepares and reviews procurement and contracting requirements, including the Division 1 General Requirement sections.
• Assists architects and project designers with review and coordination of project agreements relative to professional service and general condition issues.
• 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.
• Assists project managers and architects 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.
• Archives technical files to ensure consistent project milestone documentation.
• Participates in developing and improving HOK document standards and best practice procedures.

Education & Experience

• Degree in architecture, architectural technology, engineering or equivalent in education or experience required. Master’s degree preferred.
• 10 years in architectural practice with prior experience in specifications development.
• Registered Architect or Architectural Technologist preferred.
• LEED accreditation or Green Associate preferred.
• Construction Specifications Institute Certification preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• 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 Institutional, Courthouse, Justice, 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.
• 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.

Other

• Some travel will be required.
• Some overtime will 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.
• Must have or be eligible to obtain a Reliability Status or higher-level security clearance with PSPC.

Many of our roles require the use of specific software. Please refer to the Required and Preferred Software Skills for details.

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

We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including those from diverse backgrounds and individuals with disabilities. If you require accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know.

Seniority level

Mid-Senior level

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Marketing, Public Relations, and Writing / Editing

Industries

Architecture and Planning

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