Specifications Writer
Multiple /
Practices – D&P /
Full Time
/ Remote
Cuningham seeks a Specifications Writer to share in our vision to dream big, be daring, and create change. We are a forward-thinking design firm that values people, creative problem solving, and a learning mindset in the pursuit of unique, regenerative solutions that fit our clients’ needs.
The Specifications Writer will play a key role in the delivery of our project documentation. A successful candidate will have a well-rounded knowledge of architectural project design and delivery processes. They will have a passion for design, details, products, and systems and have experience producing quality specifications for project manuals. They will also collaborate effectively with project teams and be proficient in using, developing, and helping maintain Office Master Specifications.
Cuningham Office Locations: Minneapolis, Denver, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Culver City, & San Diego.
What you will do
- Prepare specifications using SpecLink Cloud for projects across multiple project types, including Workplace, Education, Multi-Family Residential, Hospitality, Entertainment, and Healthcare.
- Edit Divisions 00 & 01 documents with varied owner requirements and multiple project delivery methods.
- Engage with project teams and consultants to coordinate specification efforts.
- Serve as a technical, product, material, and building system resource.
- Coordinate with in-house disciplines to develop technical specifications for Architecture, Interior Design, and Landscape Architecture.
- Integrate specification documents with technical and production teams to deliver a fully coordinated set of construction documents.
- Create specifications consistent with Cuningham’s specification processes, document standards, quality requirements, and regenerative goals.
- Communicate the technical (building performance) and specification implications of design decisions to the team.
- Stay up to date on project and client-specific standards and requirements, as well as regional requirements, and their implications on the specifications.
- Review drawings at each phase to maintain consistent language between drawings and specifications.
- Prepare addenda and other documentation as necessary during construction administration.
- Assist with evaluations and responses to product substitution requests.
- Assist with quality checks of outsourced specifications.
- Assist with quality management processes, through validation of compliance with applicable codes, regulations, and standards.
- Meet with product representatives to develop and refine new product selections.
What we look for
- Associates Degree in Architectural Technology, at a minimum. Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Architecture preferred.
- 10+ years of industry experience preferred, with 3-5 years producing specifications in the AEC industry.
- Excellent time management and organization skills. Ability to work across multiple teams simultaneously and produce results within multiple deadlines.
- Understands and supports project design objectives while providing technical expertise.
- Embraces sustainable and regenerative design practices, through current green codes and certification programs, such as CalGreen, Green Communities, Green Globes, IgCC, LEED, CHPS, WELL, etc.
- General knowledge of door hardware and how to incorporate door hardware specifications and schedules prepared by outside consultants.
- Familiarity with all project phase documentation required: Narrative, short form specifications, 3-part full-length specifications, and sheet specs for smaller projects.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, RIB SpecLink, and Bluebeam required.
- Familiarity with BIM 360 and Revit preferred.
- Membership with Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) required. CSI certified Construction Documents Technologist (CDT) required. CSI Certified Construction Specifier (CCS) preferred.
- Membership with American Institute of Architects (AIA) preferred.
Compensation & Benefits
- Compensation Range: $75,000 - $129,000 annually. Compensation commensurate with experience, capabilities, and licensure/certification, and location of residence.
- Benefits: Cuningham offers a variety of benefits to employees including; health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, an employee wellness program, life and disability insurance, 401k retirement savings plan, paid holidays, and paid time off.
Why Cuningham?
Together, we create enduring experiences for a healthy world.
Whether we are celebrating at a Spirit hour, nurturing an equitable and just work environment, or delivering regenerative design solutions to restore natural and human systems, each exchange is an opportunity to create a better future and support the health of our talent and communities. Our values are simple and impact every aspect of our practice:
Celebrate curiosity.
Design the future.
Restore the earth.
Take care of each other.
Have fun.
What can we create together?
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Cuningham is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and values the strength diversity brings to the workplace when combined with equity and justice. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, genetic information, national origin, disability, military, or veteran status.
