Specification Writer

Our team is redefining building design and engineering.AE Works is an award-winning firm ranked among the top U.S. A/E firms by Architectural Record and ENR East. AE Works is recognized for our commitment to innovation and delivering exceptional results.

Our mission is straightforward: to make building projects a better value. We thrive on solving complex challenges and creating solutions that enhance the built environment, enabling our clients to succeed in their most important endeavors.

Our people are our difference. We believe in fostering acollaborative environmentwhere every voice matters and the best ideas win. As part of our team, you’ll work alongsidearchitects, engineers, cost estimators, and construction managerswith expertise across healthcare, higher education, government, and commercial markets.

Together, we apply leading-edge technology and a passion for design excellence to projects that shape the future.

This role serves as the firm’s central authority on construction specifications, ensuring alignment between design intent, regulatory requirements, and project delivery standards. The position plays a key part in translating technical and design concepts into clear, coordinated documentation while supporting consistency across projects. It also acts as a resource to project teams, strengthening internal knowledge, improving processes, and reinforcing quality control. Success in this role requires deep technical expertise, a disciplined and detail-oriented mindset, and the ability to collaborate across teams while upholding high standards of accuracy and professionalism. The individual contributes not only to project outcomes but also to broader organizational initiatives that advance performance, sustainability, and practice-wide excellence.

This position can be performed remotely, with the expectation of occasional travel to office locations in Arlington, VA or Pittsburgh, PA.

• Coordinate with Project Managers and Technical Leads to develop and issue project manuals for new construction and renovation projects
• Maintain and continuously update the firm’s specification library
• Collaborate with manufacturers, Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs), and client standards to ensure accurate, current specifications
• Provide internal training and guidance to design staff on specification updates and best practices
• Contribute to firm-wide initiatives, including social and environmental efforts that support AE Works’ goals and initiatives

• 8+ years of experience in the architectural profession, including 5+ years in specification writing
• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from a NAAB-accredited program
• CSI Construction Document Technician (CDT) or Certified Construction Specifier (CCS) credential
• LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP)
• Strong proficiency in specification software, Microsoft Word, and related tools
• Experience using cloud-based and mobile collaboration platforms
• Proven experience developing specifications across relevant project types

• Licensed Architect
• Active membership in CSI or SCIP
• Recent specification experience in healthcare, senior care, higher education, commercial, public safety, or government projects
• Demonstrated ability to thrive in a structured, process-driven environment with a focus on accuracy, consistency, and high-quality output
• Strong attention to detail with a methodical, “by-the-book” approach to decision-making
• Ability to work independently while serving as a knowledgeable resource and mentor to others
• Professional, precise communication style with a service-oriented mindset

At AE Works, we believe in supporting each person in their professional and personal journey. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits (medical, dental, vision, 401k), and a collaborative culture built on mentorship, accountability, and technical excellence. Our team enjoys generous paid time off, including a company-wide break from Christmas through New Year’s Day, a flexible hybrid schedule, and resources that promote mental health, financial wellness, and professional growth through training, education, and licensure support.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin,disabilityor veteran status. EEO is the law. AE Works uses E-Verify. You have the Right to Work.