Play a critical role in the architecture, engineering, and interior design teams at HGA!

Project Specifier (Minneapolis, MN, Milwaukee, WI or Washington, DC)

In collaboration with project teams and discipline leaders, this Project Specifier role ensures that construction projects meet design intent, regulatory standards, and performance expectations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Specification Development - create comprehensive documentation detailing materials, products, and construction methods aligned with project goals
• Technical Advising - provide expert guidance on product selection, installation techniques, and maintenance requirements
• Regulatory Compliance - ensure specifications meet building codes, safety regulations, and sustainability standards
• Quality Assurance - select materials and systems that meet performance, durability, and aesthetic criteria
• Research & Innovation - stay current with new technologies, materials, and industry trends to recommend innovative solutions
• Communication - act as a liaison between design and construction teams to clarify specifications and resolve conflicts

HGA is a multidisciplinary design firm rooted in architecture and engineering. We believe in the power of design to shape human experience and improve lives. Our collaborative culture fosters innovation, creativity, and excellence across all disciplines. 

1. work closely with architectural, engineering, other discipline leaders, construction managers, consultants and clients, in the preparation of specifications documents in a manner that is responsive to the client's needs and deadlines and consistent with HGA architectural procedures, standards and quality expectations;
2. prepare and maintain master guide specifications using current Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) formats and application guides;
3. prepare schematic design narratives and design development outline specifications for early design phase submissions;
4. lead coordination of material identification and annotation between drawings and specifications, providing guidance for project teams in product and material selection where appropriate;
5. provide materials research and technical assistance to establish or evaluate quality and performance of systems and materials;
6. stay abreast of current technical literature, and changes in project delivery impacting construction documentation; and
7. work with other specifiers and HGA's Sustainability team to ensure sustainability best practices are incorporated into contract documents.

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field
• 5+ years of experience in construction or architectural specification writing
• Professional registration and/or CCS certification preferred; experience on large projects acceptable in lieu of CCS
• Experienced with a variety of project types including LEED/Sustainable design
• Deep knowledge of building materials, systems, and construction methods
• Familiarity with CSI MasterFormat and other specification standards
• Strong understanding of building codes, ADA, LEED, and other regulatory frameworks
• Proficient use of Microsoft Office Suite and VisiSpecs, Deltek Masterworks, RIB SpecLink, or other specification editing software is essential
• Experience with BIM and CAD tools
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities

The pay range listed aligns to the geography of the office for which this position is posted. Actual compensation will be based upon work experience, education, licensure requirements and/or skill level and will be finalized at the time of offer. Individuals in this role working more than 24 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in HGA’s robust benefit programs which include an annual bonus and success sharing bonus program, 401(k) guaranteed contribution, paid parental leave, medical, dental and life insurance plans as well as PTO and short- and long-term disability programs. Salary Range: $71,600 - $86,000 (Minneapolis/Milwaukee); $84,000 - $100,800 (Washington, DC) depending on location, qualifications and experience.

At HGA, you’ll do the best work of your career. We design with impact by diving deep into the people and passions that shape every place. Empathy fuels us, curiosity drives us, and meaningful work leads to innovation. We celebrate individuality, embrace flexibility, and thrive together in the office three days a week.

Join our nationally recognized, award-winning team of architects, engineers, and interior designers—help us shape what’s next.

Learn more about us here

Application Requirements & Instructions

Please submit resume for consideration