Architectural Specification Writer

Gray Design Group; St. Louis (MO); Hybrid; USD 85,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Gray Design Group in St. Louis is seeking an Architectural Specification Writer to develop, coordinate, and maintain comprehensive construction specifications for architectural projects.

This role requires strong technical writing, deep knowledge of building materials and systems, and the ability to collaborate with architects, engineers, and contractors to ensure accuracy, compliance, and coordination across drawings and specifications. Office-based with occasional site visits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Construction Management, Engineering, or Technical Writing.
• Minimum 10 years of experience preparing architectural specifications for various project types.
• Strong knowledge of CSI MasterFormat and Specpoint.
• Extensive understanding of construction methods, materials, systems, and industry best practices.
• Experience coordinating specifications with architectural and engineering disciplines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational abilities.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, edit, and maintain project specifications using AIA MasterSpec.
• Develop project manuals and technical specifications for architectural and interior design projects.
• Review drawings to ensure consistency and coordination between plans and specifications.
• Research and evaluate building materials, products, systems, and construction methods.
• Ensure specifications comply with applicable building codes, regulations, client standards, and project requirements.
• Coordinate with architects, engineers, consultants, manufacturers, and contractors regarding specification-related matters.
• Maintain and update the firm's master specification library and standards documentation.
• Review product submittals, substitutions, and RFIs for compliance with project specifications.
• Support QA/QC initiatives throughout the design and construction process.
• Stay current on industry trends, building products, sustainability standards, and construction technologies.
• Assist project teams with bidding and construction administration activities related to specifications.

Skills

Technical writing

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Coordination

BIM workflows

Education

Bachelor's degree in Architecture

Tools

Autodesk Revit

BIM workflows

Job description

At Gray, our culture is built around people. As a certified Women-Owned Business, we take pride in fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace that emphasizes personal growth, team spirit, and professional excellence. Our employees known as “Groupies” describe the team as warm, passionate, and supportive. We lead with purpose and believe in giving back to our community.

Job Title: Architectural Specification Writer

Position Summary

Gray Design Group is seeking a talented and detail-oriented Architectural Specification Writer to join our Architecture team. This role will be responsible fordeveloping, coordinating, and maintaining comprehensive construction specifications for architectural projects. This role works closely with architects, designers, engineers, project managers, and manufacturers to ensure project specifications are accurate, coordinated, code-compliant, and aligned with project requirements. The ideal candidate is highly detail-oriented, possesses strong technical writing skills, and has extensive knowledge of construction materials, building systems, and industry standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare, edit, and maintain project specifications utilizing AIA MasterSpec.
• Collaborate with project teams to develop project manuals and technical specifications for architectural and interior design projects.
• Review drawings and contract documents to ensure consistency and coordination between plans and specifications.
• Research and evaluate building materials, products, systems, and construction methods.
• Ensure specifications comply with applicable building codes, regulations, client standards, and project requirements.
• Coordinate with architects, engineers, consultants, manufacturers, and contractors regarding specification-related matters.
• Maintain and update the firm's master specification library and standards documentation.
• Review product submittals, substitutions, and Requests for Information (RFIs) for compliance with project specifications.
• Support quality assurance and quality control initiatives throughout the design and construction process.
• Stay current on industry trends, building products, sustainability standards, and construction technologies.
• Assist project teams with bidding and construction administration activities related to specifications.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Construction Management, Engineering, Technical Writing, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum 10 years of experience preparing architectural specifications for commercial, institutional, healthcare, industrial, hospitality, multi-family, or government projects.
• Strong knowledge of CSI MasterFormat, and Specpoint.
• Extensive understanding of construction methods, materials, building systems, and industry best practices.
• Experience coordinating specifications with architectural and engineering disciplines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified Construction Specifier (CCS) credential through the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI).
• Registered Architect (RA) or other relevant professional certification.
• Experience with LEED, WELL, or sustainable design standards.
• Experience working in an architecture or integrated design firm environment.
• Familiarity with BIM workflows and Autodesk Revit.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Advanced technical writing and editing skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to interpret architectural and engineering drawings.
• Thorough understanding of contract documents and construction administration processes.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong customer service and relationship management skills.

Working Conditions

Office-based role at Gray Design Group’s St. Louis location with occasional site visits as required by projects.

Physical Requirements

Ability to sit and work on a computer for extended periods. Occasional standing, walking, or site inspections may be required.

Gray Design Group is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.