Specification Writer

HOK is currently seeking an Architectural Specification Writer to join our team.

This position can be filled in our Denver, Kansas City, or St. Louis offices.

• Review architectural drawings and project information to write and edit project specifications in accordance with project requirements, institutional guidelines, firm standards, and applicable codes, laws, and regulations.
• Interpret project design and delivery requirements, translating them into detailed materials, methods, equipment, installation procedures, and certification testing requirements necessary for procurement and construction.
• Understand the organization of projects into multiple bid packages and how these packages make up the full project scope.
• Prepare and review procurement and contracting requirements, including Division 01 General Requirements, while aligning owner-provided contract forms and processes with firm standards.
• Review sustainability goals and provide informed guidance on material selection to support LEED or other certifications.
• Provide resources for project teams to research products and review RFI submittals.
• Assist with quality management reviews and offer technical expertise throughout design development and construction document phases.
• Collaborate closely with the firmwide specifications team to ensure consistency, knowledge sharing, and best practices.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with local and national vendors and serve as a resource connecting project teams with product representatives.
• Contribute to the ongoing development and enhancement of the firm's Master Specifications, including project-type‑specific content, regional conditions, and sustainable content.
• Support integration of specifications into digital project delivery tools, including HOK's Project Quality Management initiatives and Smartsheet collaboration workflows.
• Takes personal responsibility for fostering a green workplace through sustainable work practices.
• Fosters a culture of external and internal client service.
• Support project managers by reviewing and coordinating project agreements related to professional services and general condition issues.
• Assist project architects and designers with material and system constructability analysis, shop drawings and product substitution review.
• Coordinate and evaluate consultant technical specifications for conformance with firm standards.
• May conduct internal specifications training.
• Participate in developing and improving firm document standards and best practice procedures.
• Engage in regular collaboration with specification writers in other offices, sharing workload and expertise as needed.
• Ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously with various delivery methods and produce deliverables within project established milestones and deadlines.

• Bachelor's degree in architecture, engineering, construction management, or a related field; equivalent experience will be considered.
• Minimum 10 years of architectural practice, including at least 3 years of direct experience in specification writing.
• Experience with complex, large-scale, or multi-phase projects preferred.
• Experience with Sports, Recreation, and Entertainment projects a plus.
• Licensed Architect preferred; NCARB certification desirable.
• LEED Accreditation or LEED Green Associate preferred.
• CSI Construction Documents Technologist (CDT) or higher certification preferred.
• Experience with design-build project delivery is a plus.