Freelance Scientific Technical Writer Jobs in Riverside, CA

ECS is seeking an experienced Specification Writer II to join our Pacific Facilities team in Irvine, CA. In this role, you’ll guide design teams on product selection, prepare and edit construction specifications, ensure compliance with codes and standards, and coordinate with architects, engineers, and consultants throughout all project phases. This position is ideal for a detail-oriented professional with a solid background in architecture or construction, strong technical expertise in specifications writing, and a passion for staying current on building technologies and industry trends.

Responsibilities

• Primarily involved with tasks supporting the management of specification projects, including resolution of technical and administrative issues.
• Provide guidance to architectural design firms on product selection and other design considerations.
• Review drawings and other project information to write and edit specifications for projects and coordinate compliance with project requirements, institutional guidelines, firm standards, technical conditions, acceptable standards, and existing laws, rules, regulations, and codes.
• Plan, schedule, organize, and prepare construction specifications for the various phases/milestone deliverables of projects.
• Prepare and review the procurement and contracting requirements, including the Division 01 General Requirement sections.
• Coordinate and review consultant technical specifications for conformance with firm standards and the remainder of the project manual. Ensure consultants receive and follow the most current specification formatting conventions.
• Perform product research; assist project designers with material and product selections.
• Prepare, assist, or coordinate with internal Project Architects and non-architectural disciplines such as structural engineering and landscape architecture in specifications and project manual preparation.
• Maintain awareness of evolving building technology, stay current on product developments, new materials, code changes, and industry trends to bring expertise to the project teams concerning product selections.
• Assist construction administration staff with the review of product submittals and evaluate substitution requests and make recommendations regarding compliance with specifications.
• Basic ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously, produce results within a deadline, and work both independently and in a team environment.
• Host or attend project discussions with clients and follow up on reports as necessary.
• Other duties as required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required. Bachelor's in Architecture, Construction Management, Engineering Technology, Building Science or related field is preferred.
• 6 years of related architectural or commercial interiors experience
  • Minimum of 3 years of increased responsibility in writing, editing, and developing AIA MasterFormat - 3 part specifications.

• Membership in Construction Specifications Institute (CSI). CDT Certification is a plus. CCS, LEED AP, or a licensed Architect or Engineer is a plus.

• If driving for, or on behalf of, any ECS subsidiary, a valid driver's license is required.

Skills and Abilities

• Experience in assisting teams in researching product materials, fabricators, and manufacturers for architectural projects
• Strong knowledge of architectural design, engineering coordination, products, construction methodology, design trends, building systems, and manufacturer-supplier appropriateness
• Possess a strong design aptitude. Proficient in reading construction drawings, programs, criteria documents, details, and specifications
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (w/ advanced Word training), Bluebeam Revu & Studio, and Adobe Acrobat. AutoCAD & Revit proficiency a plus.

The expected pay range for this role and location is $73,000 - $97,500/year. The final agreed-upon compensation will be determined based on specific location and other individual qualifications.

Why Join ECS?

• Opportunity to lead high-impact projects with technical complexity and visibility.
• Be part of a growing and innovative team focused on technical excellence and client service.
• Supportive work environment that values expertise, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Competitive salary, performance bonuses, and comprehensive benefits.
• Employee Stock Ownership program (ESOP)!
• 401(k) with up to 4% match
• Tuition Assistance Program
• And more!

ECS Core Values: Collaborate, Focus & Lead

ECS Group of Companies (ECS) was founded in 1988 with the goal to raise the standards of professional engineering consulting. Today, we are a leader in geotechnical, construction materials, environmental and facilities consulting services. We are employee-owned with more than 3,000 employees in 100+ offices and testing facilities coast to coast. ECS is currently ranked #60 in Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms (April 2026), #148 in Engineering News-Record’s Top 200 Environmental Firms (October 2025) and #50 in Zweig Group’s Hot Firm List (May 2025). For additional information about ECS, visit: www.ecslimited.com.

ECS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To learn more, click here.

ECS Group of Companies (ECS) was founded in 1988 with the goal to raise the standards of professional engineering consulting. Today, we are a leader in geotechnical, construction materials, environmental and facilities consulting services. We are employee-owned with more than 3,000 employees in 100+ offices and testing facilities coast to coast. ECS is currently ranked #60 in Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms (April 2026), #148 in Engineering News-Record’s Top 200 Environmental Firms (October 2025) and #50 in Zweig Group’s Hot Firm List (May 2025). For additional information about ECS, visit: www.ecslimited.com.

ECS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To learn more, click here.