ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Specifier Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Northern Impact

Specifications Writer

San Diego, CA · On-site

CCS (Certified Construction Specifier), CDT (Construction Documents Technologist), LEED accreditation Please Note: Delays may be experienced if uploading portfolio pdf. Do not exit out of the page ...

NewBasis LLC

Specification Sales Engineer

Riverside, CA

$80K - $120K/yr

Candidate will maintain relationship(s) with specifier(s) long term to anticipate potential specification changes or new product requirements or advancements. The Specification Sales Engineer will ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSpecifier JobsSpecifier Jobs in California

Specifier information

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Several high-paying jobs can offer daily rates of $700 or more, including specialized contractors, freelance consultants, certain construction managers, and some skilled trades like electricians or plumbers with experience. These roles often require specific certifications, expertise, or working in high-demand environments, and pay can vary based on location, project scope, and experience.

What is a spec position?

A spec position, often called a specification role, involves creating detailed documents that outline project requirements, materials, and standards for construction, design, or manufacturing projects. Specifiers typically work with architects, engineers, and contractors, and may use tools like CAD software to develop precise specifications that ensure project compliance and quality.

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

To thrive as a Specifier, you need a solid background in architecture, engineering, or construction, with expertise in building codes, materials, and specification writing. Familiarity with specification software such as MasterSpec, as well as knowledge of BIM (Building Information Modeling) systems, is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate project documentation, regulatory compliance, and smooth coordination across project stakeholders.

What is the difference between Specifier vs Estimator?

AspectSpecifierEstimator
Primary RoleDetails specifications and materials for construction or manufacturing projectsPrepares cost estimates for projects based on scope and specifications
Required CredentialsKnowledge of materials, codes, and technical specificationsUnderstanding of project costs, budgeting, and quantity takeoffs
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, construction sites, manufacturing plantsConstruction sites, project offices, bidding environments
Industry UsageArchitectural, construction, manufacturing sectorsConstruction, engineering, and contracting firms

While both roles are integral to construction projects, a Specifier focuses on selecting and detailing materials and products, ensuring compliance with standards. An Estimator, on the other hand, concentrates on calculating project costs to secure bids and budgets. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and project workflows within the industry.

What are some typical challenges a Specifier faces when collaborating with architects and manufacturers?

A Specifier often acts as the bridge between architects, manufacturers, and contractors to ensure the correct products and materials are used in a project. One common challenge is aligning the technical requirements and aesthetic preferences of the architect with the availability, compliance, and budget constraints of manufacturers. Effective communication and up-to-date product knowledge are vital to navigate these complexities. Building strong relationships and staying current with industry standards can help Specifiers manage these challenges successfully.

What are Specifiers?

Specifiers are professionals, typically in the construction or architectural industry, who are responsible for selecting and specifying the materials, products, and systems to be used in building projects. They ensure that all specified materials meet the project’s technical, quality, and regulatory requirements. Specifiers play a key role in collaborating with architects, engineers, and suppliers to ensure that the final construction aligns with the design intent and industry standards. Their detailed specifications become part of the contract documents used by contractors during construction.

What are the 7 levels of the job title hierarchy?

In the context of a specifier role, the job title hierarchy typically includes entry-level, junior, mid-level, senior, lead, manager, and director levels. These levels reflect increasing responsibility, expertise, and scope of work, often requiring different skills and experience. Understanding this hierarchy helps in career progression and role expectations within the industry.

What are examples of job specialization?

Job specialization involves focusing on a specific area within a profession, such as a civil engineer specializing in structural design or a software developer focusing on cybersecurity. This allows professionals to develop expertise and often requires relevant certifications or training. Specialization can improve job performance and career advancement opportunities.
What are popular job titles related to Specifier jobs in California? For Specifier jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Specifier jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Specifier jobs in California are:
Specifier jobs near you
Infographic showing various Specifier job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.
Specifications Writer

Specifications Writer

Northern Impact

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Overview
Award-winning architecture firm that is reputably one of the best places to work in Los Angeles & San Diego, earning California's Design Firm of the Year, is seeking a Specifcations Writer to join either their growing Los Angeles or San Diego studio. (Keep in mind, this position allows fully remote working)
With over 30 years of practice, this 160-person-firm is nationally recognized in programming, planning + design for the healthcare, science & technology, higher education, K-12, and civic sectors. The firm's expertise includes transformative projects for schools of medicine and the health professions, advanced research and teaching laboratories, leading-edge museums and civic landmarks, tech-offices, and innovative clinical facilities on higher ed, healthcare, and urban campuses. The team is actively seeking talented Architects with a passion and expertise in science & technology project types.
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Specifications Writer to join a multi-disciplinary team in a full-time, in-house capacity. This role is integral to supporting complex institutional projects by developing and managing comprehensive architectural specifications that ensure quality, consistency, and technical accuracy across all project documentation. The successful candidate will contribute to projects of varying scale and complexity while maintaining the firm's high standards for technical excellence and documentation quality.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Team Collaboration: Partner closely with Project Managers and Project Architects to coordinate specification deliverables and effectively distribute workload across project teams
  • Project Specifications Development: Create, organize, and maintain detailed architectural specifications for complex institutional projects across healthcare, science and technology, higher education, and K-12 sectors, ensuring full compliance with project schedules, firm standards, and applicable codes
  • Technical Expertise: Provide authoritative guidance on building material and system selection, application, and sustainability considerations
  • Quality Assurance: Review and coordinate consultant specifications to ensure adherence to formatting standards, project manuals, and owner requirements
  • Standards Management: Continuously maintain and enhance firm master specifications by incorporating current codes, industry best practices, and emerging building technologies specific to institutional design
  • Construction Support: Assist with construction administration activities including addenda preparation, RFI responses, substitution request reviews, and product submittal evaluations
  • Knowledge Leadership: Serve as the primary technical resource and mentor to design teams, promoting excellence in specification development practices
  • Travel: Position may require occasional travel

Required Qualifications
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Architectural Technology, Construction Management, or related field
  • Experience: Minimum 7 years of dedicated experience developing architectural specifications for complex commercial and institutional projects within the AEC industry
  • Technical Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of national and local building codes and reference standards, with demonstrated expertise in the International Building Code (IBC) and regulatory requirements specific to California jurisdictions
  • Technology Proficiency: Familiarity with emerging technologies that support integrated practice, coordination, and efficient documentation processes
  • Communication Skills: Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication abilities with proven capacity to articulate technical concepts clearly and collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams
  • Analytical Abilities: Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret project objectives and translate them into well-organized, code-compliant, and technically precise specifications
  • Project Management: Demonstrated ability to manage multiple competing deadlines and priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment

Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous project experience in Higher Education, Science & Technology, Healthcare, or other Institutional sectors
  • Professional certifications: CCS (Certified Construction Specifier), CDT (Construction Documents Technologist), LEED accreditation

Please Note: Delays may be experienced if uploading portfolio pdf. Do not exit out of the page during upload. We look forward to receiving your application!

Apply