About the role

Aplyr's Quick Take

This role is for a Specification Specialist who will focus on researching and selecting architectural materials for design projects. You'll work closely with project teams to develop specifications and ensure quality documentation, acting as a technical resource throughout the process. This is an individual contributor role with a strong emphasis on collaboration and technical expertise.

Good fit

Ideal candidates have over 15 years of experience in architecture, particularly in specifications and materials. A collaborative working style and a strong technical background in construction products are essential for success in this role.

Worth noting

The position emphasizes sustainability by supporting Gensler's climate initiatives, which could appeal to environmentally conscious professionals. The role also involves significant interaction with various teams, suggesting a dynamic work environment.

Your Role

As a Gensler Specifications Specialist, you will research and evaluate architectural materials for their application across a variety of exciting design projects. The role includes working closely with project design teams to develop, compose and assist in material analysis and research, selecting products, editing specifications, and administering construction contracts specification development. The role further includes liaising with our design studios to support the development and knowledge-share of key technical criteria for documentation. This position is based in Gensler's Chicago office.

What You Will Do

Support project teams in their responsibility of researching materials, selecting products, editing specifications, and administering construction documents.
Be an active member of our Technical Leadership Team focusing on the quality of our documentation via proper materials selection and detailing with respect to the design intent application.
Address the development of project manuals with project teams for a wide range of project types, sizes, and practice areas.
Coordinate the implementation of our Team-Based specifications philosophy at region-wide level, including QA/QC, Specification updates, project scheduling, and project team skillset alignment.
Liaise with our Resilience Team leaders to support Gensler's Cities Climate Challenge (GC3) to achieve carbon neutrality in our work.
Integrate and engage with our Design Technology Team leaders to support development, revisions, and innovations to our overall documentation and BIM delivery processes.
Serve as a technical resource for product and material evaluations, selections, and research.
Collaborate with project teams on the budgeting, scheduling, and production of specifications and project manuals.
Maintain proficiency in construction products, techniques, and sequences by staying abreast of product developments, new materials, code changes, and current industry trends.
Liaise with Manufacturers Representatives as needed for research and project support.
Educate and create learning programs for staff, including but not limited to specification documents, construction document technology, and editing methodology.
Liaise with our Design Management Team leaders to support the integration of materials research and selection in our overall design + delivery framework.

Your Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Architecture
15+ years of experience in architectural profession, 5+ years of experience dedicated to specification writing
Working knowledge of construction documentation and construction specifications
Good command of both written/oral English
Strong self-starter with a passion for the growth of material knowledge
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
Ability to handle multiple competing priorities and deadlines
Strong ability and willingness to communicate with project teams
Architectural License preferred
Certification and/or willingness to pursue certification by CSI as a Construction Document Technician (CDT) preferred

**The base salary will be estimated between $120,000-$140,000 plus bonuses and benefits and contingent on relevant experience. To learn more about our compensation philosophy and full benefits offerings, please visit Great People, Great Rewards | Gensler

Life at Gensler

At Gensler, we are as committed to enjoying life as we are to delivering best-in-class design. From curated art exhibits to internal design competitions to “Well-being Week,” our offices reflect our people’s diverse interests.

We encourage every person at Gensler to lead a healthy and balanced life. Our comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, vision, disability, wellness programs, flex spending, paid holidays, and paid time off. We also offer a 401k, profit sharing, employee stock ownership, and twice annual bonus opportunities. Our annual base salary range has been established based on local markets.

As part of the firm’s commitment to licensure and professional development, Gensler offers reimbursement for certain professional licenses and associated renewals and exam fees. We view our professional development programs as strategic investments in our future.

Aplyr's read

Gensler is a leading global architecture and design firm known for its innovative projects and diverse career opportunities across multiple disciplines.
Synthesized from recent postings & public sources

What's promising

•Gensler offers a wide range of roles, providing diverse career paths in architecture and design.
•The firm is known for its innovative design projects, enhancing its reputation in the industry.
•Gensler's global presence allows for international career opportunities and exposure to varied projects.

What to watch

•Gensler's large size might lead to bureaucratic challenges and slower decision-making processes.
•High competition for roles may limit opportunities for rapid advancement within the company.
•The firm's global operations could require frequent travel, impacting work-life balance.

Why Gensler

•Gensler's multidisciplinary approach integrates architecture, design, and planning under one roof.
•The firm's commitment to sustainability and innovation sets it apart in the architecture industry.
•Gensler's extensive internship programs provide valuable entry points for students in various fields.

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About Gensler

Gensler

gensler.com

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Gensler is a global architecture, design, and planning firm that provides a wide range of services including architecture, interior design, and urban planning.