Urban Design Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

ZGF is seeking an Architectural/Construction Specifications Writer to join our team in our Portland, OR, office with at least 10 years of experience. Each day we ideate, collaborate, and create, supported by a culturally diverse group of architectural professionals. Our team thrives on multi-disciplinary engagement while practicing at the intersection of architecture, interiors, and urban design and are distinguished by our creative and intellectual curiosity. 

This role is expected to work on-site Monday through Thursday, with remote work optional on Fridays.   

As a Specifications Writer, you will… 

• Be a part of a larger specifications team, and offer mentorship and support to design teams and other Specifiers.
• Be a well-rounded strategic thinker with an integrated approach to design and technical project resolution. 
• Bring a proven track-record of success with complex, multi-phase projects. 
• Participate in setting direction for the execution of project goals and objectives, definition of scope, selection of items for investigation, and development of novel concepts and methods. 
• Edit and maintain project specifications per established procedures and industry standards, including MasterFormat and SectionFormat. 
• Review, edit, and create technical specification sections. 
• Create the written requirements for the products, procedures, and standards for complex projects. 
• Develop relationships with product representatives. 
• Assist staff in conducting product research. 
• Assist with ongoing editing and revisions of ZGF template specifications. 
• Occasionally assist with other project administration duties including responding to RFIs or submittals. 
• Seek engagement and collaboration at all levels, including the internal and external design team, toward design solutions. 
• Be energized to create something new every day and eager to collaborate in a team. 
• Participate in the effective performance of the project team regarding project quality, schedule, and budget. 
• Be calm under pressure and be able to prioritize tasks across multiple projects or assignments. 

Qualifications: 

• Professional architecture degree preferred, or related degree considered. 

• Architectural license preferred. 

• Minimum of 10 years’ experience. 

• Experience in Construction Administration for large-scale and technically complex projects. 

• CSI CDT or CCS certificate preferred, though not required. 

• Experience with template specification platforms (such as RIB SpecLink Cloud or MasterSpec/Specpoint), client standards, and Owner specification section templates, including Division 00 and 01 sections.

• Proficient, if not an expert, in Microsoft Suite and Bluebeam Studio.

• Familiarity with knowledge management and building information management systems, including Revit. 

• Experience with LEED and/or other sustainable certification systems required. 

• Experience specifying both interiors and exteriors. 
• Autonomous worker with ability to be an effective collaborator and contributor to a geographically dispersed project team. 
• Strong communicator: Must be articulate with strong oral and written communication abilities to support a collaborative and fast-paced teamwork environment. Must have excellent spelling, grammatical and typing skills. 

Base Salary Range 

$111,000/yr - $150,000/yr depending on experience 

Benefits 

ZGF Employees Enjoy Medical, Dental and Vision coverage with a generous employer contribution, HSA with employer contribution, 401k with employer match, 4 weeks of PTO and 10 paid holidays per year, paid parental and family leave programs. 

Apply With:  

• Cover letter 

• Resume 

• Work samples 

We know that great projects take more than a design team to become a reality. Studies show that women and people from underrepresented groups are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every qualification. We encourage you to apply even if you don’t check every box. Your skills and experiences may be exactly what we need. 

ZGF Architects is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. As an equal opportunity employer, we celebrate the unique qualities and perspectives that each individual brings to our team. We encourage applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities to apply. Regardless of age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law, we are excited to consider qualified candidates. 

If you're ready to contribute to meaningful work, we invite you to submit your cover letter and resume online. 

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