HOK is a collective of future-forward thinkers and designers who are driven to face the critical challenges of our time. We are dedicated to improving peoples lives, serving our clients, and healing the planet. Together, we cultivate a culture of design excellence at the confluence of art and science, blending the power of creative expression with a clear sense of purpose.
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.
Job Summary
The Architectural Specification Writer develops comprehensive project specifications and supports project teams in the coordination, interpretation, and execution of construction documents. This role ensures technical accuracy, consistency, and alignment with project requirements, design intent, and applicable codes and standards.
Responsibilities
• 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 this information into detailed materials, methods, equipment installation procedures, and certification testing requirements needed to procure and construct building components. • 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 firms Master Specifications, including project-type-specific content, regional conditions, and sustainable content. • Support integration of specifications into digital project delivery tools, including HOKs Project Quality Management initiatives and Smartsheet collaboration workflows.
Teamwork
• 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. • Assist project architects with 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.
Requirements
• Bachelors degree in architecture, engineering, construction management, or a related field, or equivalent experience. • Minimum 5 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.
Benefits
HOK invests in its people and communities, supporting both personal and professional growth through every stage of life. At HOK, youll have:
• A hybrid work environment • 10 paid holidays, including 2 floating holidays • A minimum of 4 weeks of paid time off with a cash out option • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage • Free mental wellness resources • Life and AD&D coverage • Short and long-term disability benefits • 4 weeks of paid parental leave and fertility coverage • Matching contributions to our 401K plan, including a well-rounded investment menu and free guidance on retirement planning
Compensation
The reasonably expected salary range for this position in Denver, Colorado is $90,000 - $130,000 per year.
About HOK
HOK is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and veterans.