Architectural Specification Writer
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 17, 2026. First seen by Alion on Mar 17, 2026. HOK scores A on the Alion truth index.
Develops detailed project specifications and assists project team in coordinating and interpreting contract documents.
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 and delivery 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. Is cognizant of how projects are organized into multiple bid packages and comprehends how these packages make up a full project.
Prepare and review the procurement and contracting requirements, including the Division 1 General Requirement sections. Works with owner-provided contract forms and processes and aligns their requirements with HOK standard forms and specification sections.
Reviews sustainability targets and provides knowledgeable input on material product selection for LEED and other types of certifications.
Provides resources for project teams to research products and review RFI submittals.
Assists with quality management reviews and technical advice in design development through construction document phases.
Works collaboratively with the specifications group across HOK.
Develops and maintains relationships with vendors both at the local and national levels. Can act as a resource for teams and connect them 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 including Smartsheet.
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.
May conduct internal specifications training.
Participates in developing and improving HOK document standards and best practice procedures.
Collaborates with HOK specification writers in other offices on regular calls and some workload sharing.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
Bachelor’s degree in architecture, engineering, construction management or equivalent in education or experience required.
15 years in architectural practice with at least 5 years prior experience in specifications development.
Experience in large, multi-phase projects is preferred.
Registered Architect with current license preferred.
NCARB registration preferred.
LEED accreditation or Green Associate preferred.
Construction Specifications Institute CDT or better preferred.
Experience with Design Build Project Procurement preferred.
Compensation is based on experience, qualifications, education and location. The reasonably expected annual salary range for this position in Washington D.C. is $90,000 to $140,000.
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