Specifications Writer

SMMA

Construction Specifications Writer creating architectural project manuals and technical specifications for SMMA, an employee-owned multidisciplinary design firm. Coordinating consultants, drawings, contracts, submittals, and addenda across building projects.

Posted 8/13/2026full-timeCambridge • Massachusetts • 🇺🇸 United StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $95,000 - $130,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in architectural specification writing and coordination, with a strong understanding of MasterSpec and MasterFormat systems. Capable of effectively communicating and collaborating across disciplines to ensure project specifications meet industry standards.

Highest-signal resume keywords

MasterSpec UnderstandingMasterFormat UnderstandingCSI CertificationArchitectural Education5+ Years Experience

ATS Keywords

Tailor your resume

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills

Specification WritingProject Manual CoordinationContract Document InterpretationAddenda PreparationRFI Response AssistanceSubmittal EvaluationProduct ResearchSpecification Production SoftwareSpecification CoordinationConstruction Document Preparation

Soft Skills

Excellent Written CommunicationGraphic Communication SkillsVerbal Communication Skills

Tools & Technologies

SMMA Master SpecificationsMasterSpecMasterFormat Templates

Certifications & Qualifications

CDTCCSCCCACCPR

Industry Keywords

AIA ContractsConstruction Specifications InstituteArchitectural SpecificationsConsultant SpecificationsConstruction Documents

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Write architectural technical specifications for each project phase based on Project Manager and Project Architect decisions and information
Coordinate specifications across internal disciplines and consultant specifications for format and language
Coordinate and write Uniformat specifications for schematic design
Coordinate the Project Manual for construction documents using SMMA Master specifications, MasterSpec, and MasterFormat templates
Coordinate contracting, bidding, and front-end documents for client review
Undertake project research with the Project Architect
Review drawings and project engineer and consultant specifications for coordination with the Project Manual
Prepare and coordinate addenda
Assist with responding to RFIs
Assist with evaluating submittals and substitution requests
Assist with interpreting Contract Specifications
Help maintain SMMA specification masters for different project and delivery types
Educate staff on specification coordination and use
Conduct product research and research guide specifications, specification production software, and manufacturers’ guide specifications
Contribute to SMMA’s collaborative design excellence through internal research and knowledge sharing

Requirements

What you’ll need

Understanding of MasterSpec and MasterFormat specification systems
Understanding of AIA contracts, forms, and documents
CSI certification such as CDT, CCS, CCCA, CCPR, or other involvement in the Construction Specifications Institute
Architectural, construction, or engineering education
More than 5 years’ experience in an architectural, contracting, product representative, or engineering capacity
Excellent written, graphic, and verbal communication skills
Strong word processing skills
Strong Internet search and retrieval skills
H-1B visa sponsorship is not offered for this position

Benefits

Comp & perks

Employee-owned firm (ESOP)
Hybrid work-from-home policy
Competitive benefits package
Company-funded MA Paid Family and Medical Leave
401(k) with company match
Employee Assistance Program
Mentor/protégé program
Educational and licensure reimbursement
Professional development opportunities