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Specification Writer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Considerable knowledge of specification writing. * Good knowledge of the National Electric Code, Chicago Building Code, and NFPA standards. * Knowledge of DC train traction power. * Considerable ...

Sr Electrical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K - $144K/yr

Considerable knowledge of specification writing. * Good knowledge of the National Electric Code, Chicago Building Code, and NFPA standards. * Knowledge of DC train traction power. * Considerable ...

Spec Lab Supervisor

East Alton, IL · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

The Spec Lab Supervisor will be responsible for oversight of the Spectrometer Lab located in the ... Ability to communicate (verbal and written) technical information along with strong organizational ...

Spec Lab Supervisor

East Alton, IL · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

Spec Lab Supervisor Job Location US-IL-East Alton ID 2026-4204 # of Openings 1 Posted Date 46 ... Ability to communicate (verbal and written) technical information along with strong organizational ...

RFP Response Specialist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$78K - $104K/yr

... specifications. Extensive knowledge of the investments and the RFP process is preferred, as well as the ability to communicate formally in clear, concise writing. In addition to working with senior ...

Spec Lab Supervisor

East Alton, IL · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

The Spec Lab Supervisor will be responsible for oversight of the Spectrometer Lab located in the ... Ability to communicate (verbal and written) technical information along with strong organizational ...

Spec Lab Supervisor

East Alton, IL · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

The Spec Lab Supervisor will be responsible for oversight of the Spectrometer Lab located in the ... Ability to communicate (verbal and written) technical information along with strong organizational ...

Spec Lab Supervisor

East Alton, IL · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

The Spec Lab Supervisor will be responsible for oversight of the Spectrometer Lab located in the ... Ability to communicate (verbal and written) technical information along with strong organizational ...

Showing results 41-60

Specification Writer information

See Illinois salary details

$11

$23

$41

How much do specification writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for specification writer in Illinois is $23.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.93 and $27.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a specification writer?

Specification Writers are professionals who create detailed written instructions for construction projects, products, or systems. Their main responsibility is to outline the materials, standards, and workmanship required to complete a project according to design and regulatory guidelines. They often work closely with architects, engineers, and project managers to ensure that all aspects of a project are clearly defined and meet industry standards. Specification Writers play a critical role in reducing misunderstandings and ensuring that projects are completed as intended.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a specification writer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Specification Writer, you need strong written communication skills, a solid understanding of construction materials and processes, and typically a degree in architecture, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as MasterSpec, SpecLink, and CAD systems is often required. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with project teams are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure accurate, clear, and compliant documentation, which is vital for successful project execution and risk mitigation.

How does a specification writer typically collaborate with architects, engineers, and project managers during the design and construction process?

Specification Writers play a crucial role in ensuring that project requirements are clearly communicated and adhered to by collaborating closely with architects, engineers, and project managers. They participate in design meetings to gather detailed information, clarify technical requirements, and translate them into comprehensive written specifications. Throughout the project, they coordinate with various stakeholders to address questions and incorporate updates, ensuring consistency between drawings and specifications. This collaboration helps prevent misunderstandings and supports the successful completion of projects according to industry standards.

What is the difference between Specification Writer vs Technical Writer?

AspectSpecification WriterTechnical Writer
CredentialsRelevant technical certifications, industry-specific knowledgeWriting or communication degrees, technical background often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, engineering, construction industriesIT, software, scientific, and technical fields
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in industries requiring detailed technical specificationsUsed across various industries for user manuals, guides, and documentation

Specification Writers focus on creating detailed technical specifications for products or projects, often working closely with engineers and manufacturers. Technical Writers produce user manuals, guides, and documentation to help end-users understand products or systems. While both roles require strong technical writing skills, Specification Writers specialize in precise technical details, whereas Technical Writers focus on clarity and usability for a broader audience.

How do you become a specification writer?

To become a specification writer, typically one needs a background in a relevant field such as engineering, architecture, or construction, along with strong writing and technical skills. Many employers prefer candidates with experience in drafting specifications, familiarity with industry standards, and proficiency with tools like Microsoft Office or CAD software. Earning certifications such as the Certified Construction Document Technologist (CCDT) can also enhance job prospects.

Is a college degree generally required to be a specification writer?

A college degree is not strictly required to become a specification writer, but many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in fields such as engineering, architecture, or construction management. Strong writing skills, knowledge of industry standards, and familiarity with technical tools are also important for success in this role.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Specification Writer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Specification Writer job openings:

Infographic showing various Specification Writer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,955 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Executive Search Senior Associate, Healthcare and Life Sciences

Heidrick & Struggles

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Heidrick & Struggles is the world's foremost advisor on executive leadership, driving superior client performance through premier human capital leadership advisory services. For more than 70 years, we've delivered value for our clients by leveraging unrivaled expertise to help organizations discover and enable outstanding leaders and teams. Learn more atwww.heidrick.com

Job Description:

What We Do

Executive Search Senior Associates play a critical role in the execution of all facets of the executive recruiting lifecycle, from candidate identification to placement. Working closely with our expert Search Partners & Principals (Consultants), Senior Associates build upon their existing professional skills in a hands-on environment and continue to receive world class mentorship and professional development in an apprenticeship-style method. Our Senior Associates drive most aspects of the recruitment process, from developing the search strategy with the Consultant through managing its execution. Senior Associates also get exposure to business development activities. The search process includes working with clients to develop position specifications; interviewing, and assessing prospective candidates and building a pipeline of qualified candidates for active searches meeting the client's requirements; developing the candidate relationship; and candidate referencing. An integral part of a Senior Associate's role is assisting with client relationship management, sustaining relationships with senior executives and guiding candidates through their recruitment journey.

While learning the Search industry, Senior Associates invest significant time researching and learning about various industries, executive roles and functions, and do so in collaboration with colleagues across the globe. The Senior Associate role provides a great degree of visibility, significant responsibility and the opportunity for high impact with an excellent career track potential on a well-defined path.

Role Responsibilities

Research & Writing:

  • Developing position specification(s) and creating an effective search strategy in tandem with the Consultant.

  • Conducting industry specific and client company research, mapping the executive talent landscape to bring market insights to the Consultant/Client.

  • Assisting Consultants in preparing business development materials to present to prospective and current clients.

Internal and External Communication:

  • Contacting prospective candidates to elicit interest in client opportunities, obtaining referrals, and/or collecting market intelligence and feedback.

  • Conducting in-depth interviews to assess candidate qualifications and fit to position specifications.

  • Writing candidate assessments and presenting candidates to clients.

  • Managing candidate relationships throughout the entire life cycle of the search and keeping the Consultant abreast of candidate updates.

  • Contributing to client relationship management with the Consultant.

Living Our Values:

  • Partnering well across a multitude of stakeholders with the aim of developing productive and trusting relationships with colleagues across the firm.

  • Fostering an environment of collaboration; viewed as a team player.

  • Acting as a culture carrier; contributes to firm, practice and/or office initiatives.

  • Demonstrating self-awareness, humility, empathy, and open-mindedness in the workplace.

Ethics & Quality:

  • Maintaining the accuracy, quality, and integrity of all Search information in our various internal and external research tools.

  • Maintaining status reports and client ready reports for both internal and external presentation(s) to Consultant and Client.

  • Managing multiple concurrent projects and completing high quality deliverables on time.

  • Acting with the highest regard to professionalism, confidentiality, and ethics.

  • Succeeding and persisting through challenges, motivated to do the right thing.

Basic Role Qualifications

  • 4-6 years professional experience or a minimum of 3+ years of transferable recruiting experience.

  • An undergraduate BA/BS degree is required.

  • Exhibits skill and developing mastery of professional communications, displaying adeptness in writing, articulating, and delivering information with confidence and impact.

  • Exhibits a proven ability to collaborate with external clients and candidates, showcasing adeptness in influencing and fostering productive partnerships.

Preferred Role Qualifications

  • Prior experience in full life cycle recruiting in Executive Search, Contingent Search or In-House Talent Acquisition or other industry requiring applied sales and research skills strongly preferred.

  • Proven success simultaneously managing multiple projects and working across teams.

  • Experience targeting potential candidates and developing pitch materials.

  • Experience identifying market trends and researching information effectively through various channels.

  • Ability to analyze, organize and synthesize large volumes of information into insights.

  • Demonstrated skill in building and maintaining relationships with a diverse group of stakeholders.

  • Experience working with Salesforce or other CRM.

Pay Range Guidelines for this Position:

The salary range for this position is 100000 USD to 125000 USD. Compensation is based on several factors including but not limited to education, work experience and skills. In addition to your salary, Heidrick & Struggles offers discretionary bonuses (subject to eligibility requirements) and a comprehensive benefits package including: medical, dental, vision, disability leave, parental leave, paid time off and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). Note: we have a location based compensation structure; there may be a different range for candidates in other locations.

Heidrick & Struggles is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring qualified protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, age, sex, national origin, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, veteran or military status, or citizenship status.

Heidrick & Struggles is committed to providing reasonable accommodations and/or adjustments during our recruitment process. If you are selected for an interview and require an accommodation and/or adjustment, please inform your Talent Acquisition professional.