Specifications Writer

Specifications Writer

CO a prefix meaning: together with; jointly; equally.  At CO Architects we are a practice dedicated to designing buildings that enrich people’s lives.  Places of lasting significance that appeal as fully to the spirit as to the intellect.  Our practice is founded on a culture of integrity and mutual respect, and we are committed to continuous learning in support of professional and personal growth. We are a nationally recognized specialist in architectural programming, planning and design for the science & technology, higher education, healthcare, K-12 and civic sectors.

We are a practice in perpetuity and design thinking in everything we do.  We are people powered and people centered and as such, we are interested in talent and drive a person can bring to a project rather than a “Job Title.”  Are you ready to join us?

This Opportunity

As our Specification Writer, you’ll support our project teams by developing and managing architectural specifications for complex institutional projects. You’ll ensure the technical accuracy and consistency of our documentation, maintain and update our master specifications, research products and materials, and contribute to improving our documentation standards while working collaboratively with our designers and technical staff.

The Specifications Writer will work out of our Los Angeles, CA office. 

Your New Role

• Develops, organizes, and maintains architectural specifications for complex institutional projects in healthcare, science and technology, higher education, and K–12, ensuring alignment with project schedules, firm standards, and industry codes.
• Collaborate with Project Managers and Project Architects to coordinate the production of specification deliverables and allocate workload across project teams.
• Provides expert guidance on the selection, application, and sustainability of building materials and systems.
• Reviews and coordinates consultant specifications to ensure consistency with formatting standards, project manuals, and owner requirements.
• Maintains and evolves firm master specifications by integrating current codes, best practices, and emerging building technologies specific to institutional design.
• Supports construction administration by assisting with addenda, RFIs, substitution requests, and product submittals.
• Affirms as lead resource and agent to educate design teams towards technical excellence in specification development.

Who You Are

• 7 years dedicated to developing architectural specifications for complex commercial and institutional projects within the AEC industries
• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Architectural Technology, Construction Management, or a related field
• In-depth knowledge of national and local building codes and confirming reference standards, with proven expertise in the International Building Code (IBC) and regulatory requirements specific to jurisdictions across California.
• Familiarity with emerging technologies that support integrated practice, coordination, and efficient documentation.
• Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to convey technical concepts clearly and collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret project goals and translate them into well-organized, code-compliant, and technically accurate specifications.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple deadlines and priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous Higher Education, Science & Technology, Healthcare, or Institutional project experience.
• CCS, CDT, LEED certification

Compensation: $88,000 - $130,000 per year. Applicants, please note that actual compensation is determined by several factors that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to job-related skills, depth of experience, certifications, relevant education or training, and specific work location, among others. The wage offered or salary is only one aspect of an employee's total compensation.

This salary range is based off the Los Angeles area.

Benefits

CO Architects offers a full range of competitive benefits including choice of health and dental plans, vision, 401K, PTO, flex spending, and participation in the firm’s performance-based bonus program.

CO also offers a firm-sponsored education program to encourage professional training and development.

We celebrate diversity, we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, and we give space for everyone to add to our collective culture. As such, all applicants for employment are recruited, hired, and assigned based on merit without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.

To learn more, please visit: www.coarchitects.com