Specification Writer

Kgdarchitecture; Washington; On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

KGD Architecture in Washington, DC is seeking a Specification Writer with 5+ years of experience to prepare and coordinate architectural specifications and construction documents. This key role supports the Washington, DC studio, collaborating with Project Architects, Project Managers, and consultants to ensure accuracy and consistency across MasterSpec and CSI formats for diverse building types.

Ideal candidates will have strong editing, organizational, and technical skills, with proficiency in

Qualifications

• Prepares, edits, and coordinates architectural specifications for projects of varying size and complexity using MasterSpec and CSI formats.
• Develops and maintains Division 00, Division 01, and technical specification sections consistent with project requirements and firm standards.
• Coordinates specifications with drawings and collaborates with Project Architects, Project Managers, and consultants to ensure consistency and completeness of construction documents.
• Reviews product data, substitutions, RFIs, and submittals for conformance with project specifications.
• Assists with QA/QC reviews of construction documents, with emphasis on specification coordination.
• Supports bidding and procurement activities by responding to specification-related questions and preparing addenda as required.
• Researches building products, materials, codes, and industry standards to recommend appropriate technical solutions.
• Maintains and updates the firm's master specification library and specification standards.

Responsibilities

• Prepares, edits, and coordinates architectural specifications for projects of varying size and complexity using MasterSpec and CSI formats.
• Develops and maintains Division 00, Division 01, and technical specification sections.
• Coordinates specifications with drawings and collaborates with Project Architects, Project Managers, and consultants to ensure consistency and completeness of the construction documents.
• Reviews product data, substitutions, RFIs, and submittals for conformance with the project specifications.
• Assists with QA/QC reviews of construction documents, with particular emphasis on specification coordination.
• Supports bidding and procurement activities by responding to specification-related questions and preparing addenda, as required.
• Researches building products, materials, codes, and industry standards to recommend appropriate technical solutions.
• Maintains and updates the firm's master specification library and specification standards.

Skills

Specification writing

Microsoft Word

Bluebeam Revu

Microsoft Office

MasterSpec

e-SPECS

SpecLink

Revit

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in architecture/AA/CM

Tools

MasterSpec

e-SPECS

SpecLink

Revit

Job description

KGD Architecture is an award-winning full-service design firm headquartered in Washington, DC, with additional offices in Arlington, Virginia; Boston, Massachusetts; and Bangkok, Thailand. Our work spans architecture, urban planning, and interior design, with a diverse portfolio that includes affordable housing, multifamily residential, institutional, corporate/commercial, and mixed‑use clients.

We are a firm built on the belief that design should reflect the values and culture of the communities it serves. To that end, KGD Architecture has joined Aeterna Group, a new national firm comprised of five architecture and engineering firms united by a shared belief that great design enriches the communities it serves.

KGD Architecture continues to operate under its own name, with the same leadership, same team, and same deep commitment to our clients within the Mid‑Atlantic Region and across the United States that have defined our firm since its founding 30 years ago. By joining this national collective, KGD Architecture has access to shared resources, broader expertise, and a national network of like‑minded firms working toward the same goal.

We are seeking a Specification Writer with 5+ years of experience in preparing specifications and construction documents. This is a key role for our Washington, DC studio for candidates eager to contribute to impactful, design‑driven work within a collaborative, multi‑disciplinary environment.

Success at KGD Means

• You are agile, detail‑oriented, and committed to design and technical excellence. You take initiative, enjoy leading project documentation, and bring experience coordinating complex teams and consultants. You’re excited by the opportunity to work on a diverse range of building types—from multifamily housing and commercial office to mission‑driven public architecture.
• Ideas: We believe in a meritocracy of ideas. We look to everyone to actively contribute to the discourse in the firm.
• Knowledge: We believe that expertise is the result of lifelong learning. We are not expected to know everything, but rather to passionately pursue answers, develop new skills and deepen our knowledge.
• Ethos: We strive for excellence in the concept, quality, of everything we create.
• Individual: We value individuals who bring the highest standards of professionalism and personal integrity in the way they work. Each person can develop and contribute their wealth of attributes, skills and knowledge to support the overall health of the firm.
• Team: We value the power of interdisciplinary integration. A positive team culture in which everyone collaborates openly towards common goals is essential.
• Firm: We have a history of making transformative contributions to the profession and our communities. We are constantly innovating and attempting to bring new approaches, solutions and processes to our work.
• Prepares, edits, and coordinates architectural specifications for projects of varying size and complexity using MasterSpec and CSI formats.
• Develops and maintains Division 00, Division 01, and technical specification sections consistent with project requirements and firm standards.
• Coordinates specifications with drawings and collaborates with Project Architects, Project Managers, and consultants to ensure consistency and completeness of the construction documents.
• Reviews product data, substitutions, requests for information (RFIs), and submittals for conformance with the project specifications.
• Assists with quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) reviews of construction documents, with particular emphasis on specification coordination.
• Supports bidding and procurement activities by responding to specification‑related questions and preparing addenda, as required.
• Researches building products, materials, codes, and industry standards to recommend appropriate technical solutions.
• Maintains and updates the firm's master specification library and specification standards.

Qualifications

• Holds a bachelor’s or master’s degree in architecture, architectural engineering, construction management, or a related field preferred.
• Has 5+ years of experience preparing architectural specifications and construction documents.
• Highly desirable to have Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) Certified Construction Specifier (CCS) certification.
• Demonstrates a thorough understanding of building systems, construction materials, codes, and project delivery methods.
• Demonstrates excellent organizational, written communication, and technical editing skills.
• Demonstrates a collaborative, detail‑oriented, and proactive approach to supporting project teams.
• Technology: Must be proficient in Microsoft Word, Bluebeam Revu, Microsoft Office, and specification software (e.g., MasterSpec, e‑SPECS, or SpecLink). Experience with Revit is preferred.
• Architectural registration is a plus, but not required.