Specifications Specialist - Engineering or Construction Industry

Moffatt & Nichol specializes in large complex waterfront infrastructure projects and is recognized as one of the worldwide leaders in this field. We are actively looking for a Specification Specialist to join on of our West Coast offices. This position would be responsible for creating accurate and comprehensive construction specifications for civil engineering projects. It will collaborate with various stakeholders, including architects, engineers, project managers, and contractors, to define the technical requirements, materials, and standards necessary for successful project execution. This role will also ensure all project specifications are clear, consistent, and compliant with industry regulations and best practices.

Moffatt & Nichol is a leading U.S.-based global infrastructure advisor specializing in the planning and design of facilities that shape and serve our coastlines, harbors and rivers, as well as an innovator in the transportation complexities associated with the movement of freight. For the 2nd year in a row, Moffatt & Nichol is ranked Engineering News Record #1 for Marine & Port Facilities and Top 20 in Transportation. We were also named Southeast Design Firm of the Year 2023.

Moffatt & Nichol's professional staff includes engineers, planners, and scientists who serve our global client base from offices in Europe, North America, Latin America, and the Pacific Rim. The firm provides clients worldwide with customized service and a level of excellence that have become the firm’s hallmark in several primary practice areas – ports and harbors; coastal, environmental and water resources; urban waterfronts and marinas; transportation, bridges and rail; inspection and rehabilitation; and energy.

Duties and responsibilities:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

• Research, write, and update detailed construction specifications for various civil engineering projects, such as roads, bridges, buildings, water infrastructure, and other construction endeavors. This includes specifying materials, construction methods, quality standards, and testing procedures.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including architects, engineers, estimators, and project managers, to understand project requirements and incorporate their input into the specification documents.
• Stay updated with the latest industry standards, codes, and regulations related to civil construction and integrate them into the specification writing process to ensure compliance and best practices.
• Review and edit specifications to ensure accuracy, consistency, and completeness. Verify that the specified materials and methods align with project objectives and adhere to the client's requirements.
• Conduct research on construction materials, techniques, and equipment to ensure the specifications reflect the most up-to-date and cost-effective solutions for each project.
• Organize and maintain a comprehensive database of specification documents, making them easily accessible to project teams and stakeholders.
• Engage with clients, contractors, and subcontractors to discuss the specifications, address queries, and provide clarification on any technical matters.
• Adapt specifications as necessary to accommodate changes during the construction process, while ensuring the modifications are documented and communicated effectively.
• Identify opportunities to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the specification writing process and contribute to standardizing best practices across the organization.

Other duties:

Please note this job posting is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, construction management or a related field, required
• Professional Engineering (PE) license; preferred
• Proven experience as a Civil Construction Specification Writer or similar role in the construction industry; required
• Proven experience as a Specifications Writer or Technical Writer, with a track record of producing accurate and well-organized technical documents; required
• In-depth knowledge of civil engineering principles, construction methods, and materials; required
• Familiarity with industry standards, codes, and regulations governing civil construction; required
• Excellent technical writing skills and the ability to communicate complex concepts clearly and concisely; required
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in creating specifications
• Proficiency in using construction industry software and tools for documentation and communication
• Effective organizational and time management skills to handle multiple projects simultaneously
• Collaborative and team-oriented approach to work, with excellent interpersonal skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other documentation tools
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and communicate effectively with cross-functional teams
• Problem-solving skills and the ability to address challenges related to technical specifications
• All new hires will be required to successfully complete and pass a pre-employment (post offer) background check in compliance with NIST 800-171
• Moffatt & Nichol uses E-Verify and employment is contingent upon the legal ability to obtain employment in the U.S. and to present the required documentation at hire

Base salary range:

$80,000 to $100,000 based on years of experience, level of education obtained, professional registration, and meeting required qualification in job description.

Base salary range only applicable for candidates who will be hired and working in the California or Washington market.

Working conditions:

General Office Setting

Physical requirements:

Work is generally performed in an office or client office setting. Ability to use standard office equipment is required. Travel may occasionally be required to meet with clients.

Moffatt & Nichol’s EEO Statement:

As a global business, Moffatt & Nichol relies on diversity of culture and thought to deliver on our goal of Creative People, Practical Solutions® serving our client needs, and ensures nondiscrimination in all activities in accordance with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. We continuously seek talented, qualified employees in our world-wide operations regardless of race, color, sex/gender, including gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, national origin, religion, disability, age, marital status, citizen status, protected veteran status, or any other protected classification under country or local law. Moffatt & Nichol is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity/ Affirmative Action Employer/ Federal Contractor desiring priority referrals of all protected veterans for job openings.

EEO is the LAW

If you need more information or require special assistance for persons with disabilities or limited English proficiency, please contact Human Resources at (562) 590-6500 or TTY/TDD users please call 711.