Senior Specifications Writer

Senior Specifications Writer  HOK designs buildings and spaces that respond to the needs of people and the environment. Our designers are rooted in technical excellence, driven by imagination and focused on a solitary goal: to deliver solutions that inspire clients and communities. We are currently seeking a Senior Specifications Writer to join our team.  As a Senior Specifications Writer, you are responsible for developing detailed project specifications and assisting project team in coordinating 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 Reviews required 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.  OTHER: Some travel may be required. Some overtime may 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. Required Skills 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 Laboratory, Courthouse, Justice, and/or Healthcare specifications preferred.  Experience in institutional projects is preferred. Strong knowledge of building codes and ability to research and apply/incorporate into technical documents. Experience in working with institutional clients and state agencies. Comfortable using tools such as Bluebeam and Smartsheet for document review and comment; and able to participate in multi-person document review meetings. Strong knowledge of sustainability, integrated design and LEED guidelines and Design/Build project delivery method Proficiency in Deltek Masterspec. 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 be responsive to multiple deadlines. Ability to work independently and as a resource to a team environment. Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.   Qualifications 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 Experience with Design Build Project Procurement preferred. 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; 401(K) savings plans; disability, life and accident insurance; paid time off (PTO); and parental leave. In addition, HOK employees enjoy a flexible work schedule with the option to work remotely on Mondays and Fridays.   Compensation is based on experience, qualifications, education and location.  The reasonably expected salary range for this position is $95,000 to $130,000. Other compensation may include a discretionary bonus. HOK is a drug-free workplace.  HOK is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a protected veteran or status as a qualified individual with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable Federal, State or Local law.  Additional Locations 1218 Third Ave, Suite 500, Seattle, Location One Bush St, Suite 200, San Francisco, California Position Type Full-Time/Regular