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Specification Writer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

M&J is seeking a Specification Writer to support the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA). This role is critical in ensuring that specifications for elevator and escalator projects ...

M&J is seeking a Specification Writer to support the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA). This role is critical in ensuring that specifications for elevator and escalator projects ...

M&J is seeking a Specification Writer to support the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA). This role is critical in ensuring that specifications for elevator and escalator projects ...

Specification Writer

Rockville, MD · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

M&J is seeking a Specification Writer to support the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA). This role is critical in ensuring that specifications for elevator and escalator projects ...

Parsons is looking for an amazingly talented Specification Writer to join our team! In this role you will support the production of specifications and coordinate the integration into the construction ...

Reviews drawings and other project information to write and edit specifications for projects and coordinates compliance with project requirements, institutional guidelines, HOK standards, technical ...

Specifications Writer

Washington, DC · On-site

$115 - $160/hr

Review, edit, and create technical specification sections. * Create the written requirements for the products, procedures, and standards for complex projects. * Develop relationships with product ...

Specifications Writer

Washington, DC · On-site

$115K - $160K/yr

Review, edit, and create technical specification sections. * Create the written requirements for the products, procedures, and standards for complex projects. * Develop relationships with product ...

Specifications Writer

Washington, DC · On-site

$115K - $160K/yr

Review, edit, and create technical specification sections. * Create the written requirements for the products, procedures, and standards for complex projects. * Develop relationships with product ...

Technical Writer/Editor

Vienna, VA · On-site

$82K - $102K/yr

... specifications, synopses, solicitations, and price negotiation memoranda. The Technical Writer/Editor assesses technical and business documents derived from attending meetings and develops processes ...

Technical Writer/Editor

Vienna, VA · On-site

$82 - $103/hr

... specifications, synopses, solicitations, and price negotiation memoranda. The Technical Writer/Editor assesses technical and business documents derived from attending meetings and develops processes ...

Sr Project Architect - Aviation + Transit

Washington, DC · On-site

$112K - $142K/yr

Works with Specification Writer to develop specifications and is responsible for coordination of drawings and specifications. Checks completed reports, plans, estimates and calculations for accuracy.

Project Architect

Washington, DC · On-site

$94K - $125K/yr

Works with Specification Writer to develop specifications and is responsible for coordination of drawings and specifications. * Checks completed reports, plans, estimates and calculations for ...

The technical writer is responsible for writing and editing technical documents for projects. This ... Study drawings, specifications, mockups, and product samples to integrate and delineate ...

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Specification Writer information

See Washington salary details

$13

$27

$48

How much do specification writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for specification writer in Washington is $27.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.96 and $31.59 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 a candidate needs a background in engineering, architecture, or a related field, along with strong writing and technical skills. Relevant experience in construction, manufacturing, or product development is often required, and familiarity with industry standards and specifications software can be beneficial.
Infographic showing various Specification Writer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,218 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Overview

M&J Engineering, D.P.C. (M&J) is a quality provider of multi-discipline consulting services with over 300 employees. Since its inception in 2004, M&J has grown into diversified provider of engineering, construction management, construction inspection, technology, and environmental services to a broad range of clients, including federal, state and city/local agencies, private owners, architects, engineers and contractors.

M&J Engineering is a leader in construction management and inspection, ITS, mechanical, electrical, wastewater, water supply, tunnel airport, port, marine/coastal, environmental engineering, and design-build services for both new infrastructure projects and renovations.

M&J bases its employment and personnel decisions on the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity, with the intent to further the Company's Affirmative Action commitment. M&J does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, citizenship status, employment status, veteran or military status, or any other category protected by law. Our Company vigorously pursues opportunities to recruit and develop job candidates who have the desire and potential for becoming qualified employees through our Affirmative Action Plan.

M&J is seeking a Specification Writer to support the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA). This role is critical in ensuring that specifications for elevator and escalator projects meet safety, reliability, and compliance standards. The Specification Writer will focus on developing, updating, and maintaining technical specifications, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and related documentation to support modernization and maintenance efforts.

Responsibilities
  • Provide updates to WMATA's existing elevator and escalator specifications as well as develop specifications to be used for future elevator and escalator replacements and modernization as required;
  • Work with ELES staff to create standard operating procedures (SOP)s for elevator and escalator modernization;
  • Create work plans for elevator and escalator modernization;
  • Develop a data-driven predictive maintenance program in collaboration with ELES staff;
  • Collaboration with the project team to support the drafting of written materials;
  • Collaboration with ELES staff to collect lessons learned and update WMATA's maintenance documentation for elevators and escalators;
  • Coordinate with WMATA personnel to accomplish tasks assigned;
  • Prepare list of materials needed, and action items needed to complete task;
  • Respond to WMATA question related to this scope;
  • Provide draft copies of all documents to relevant stakeholders prior to finalization;
  • Respond to WMATA comments regarding draft documents;
  • Attend all required meetings; and
  • Other duties as assigned by WMATA Task Manager.
Qualifications
  • A minimum of five (5) years of experience in technical writing for infrastructure planning and/orengineering projects;
  • Experience in technical writing for standards, rules, standard operating procedures (SOPs), andhandbooks;
  • Proficiency in Microsoft 365
  • Strong verbal, written, and electronic communication skills.
Benefits

M&J is a leader in providing quality engineering consulting services to a diverse and exciting client base.  We attract experienced professionals who understand proactive client service, safety, risk management and loss prevention practices, quality control, teamwork, and the development of younger staff.  We seek employees who enjoy their work, desire continuous improvement, and want to contribute to the vision and growth of a quality, employee-owned, professional firm. To all full-time employees we provide a comprehensive package of benefits, including medical, dental and eye insurance, 401(k) retirement plan, life insurance, etc. Salary will depend on experience and credentials.

Employment Type: OTHER