Materials Specifications & FF&E specialist

Job Description

Role Summary The Materials Specifications & FF&E Specialist is responsible for developing, coordinating, and controlling all specifications, materials, finishes, and workmanship standards.

This role ensures that design intent, quality standards, constructability, cost control, and long-term performance are fully aligned across all disciplines.

The position acts as the single technical authority for materials and specifications from concept through handover.

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Key Responsibilities

1.⁠ ⁠Technical Specifications

• Prepare and manage full technical specifications for:
• Architectural finishes
• Joinery & FF&E
• Specialist works (facades, waterproofing, acoustic systems, lighting, smart systems)
• Ensure specifications are:
• Clear, enforceable, and construction-ready
• Aligned with drawings, BOQs, and contracts
• Compliant with local and international standards

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2.⁠ ⁠Materials & Finishes Management

• Define and approve:
• Materials
• Finishes
• Performance criteria
• Mock-ups and samples
• Build and maintain:
• Material schedules
• Finishes schedules
• Approved vendor lists
• Evaluate materials for:
• Durability
• Maintenance
• Lifecycle cost
• Climate suitability
• Availability and lead times

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3.⁠ ⁠Quality & Compliance

• Establish and enforce:
• Quality benchmarks
• Installation standards
• Testing and inspection requirements
• Participate in:
• Factory visits
• Mock-up reviews
• Site inspections
• Resolve technical conflicts between:
• Design intent
• Construction feasibility
• Budget constraints

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5.⁠ ⁠Coordination & Stakeholder Management

• Coordinate with:
• Architects
• Interior designers
• Structural & MEP consultants
• Contractors & subcontractors
• Procurement and QS teams
• Act as the technical reference point for:
• RFIs
• Value engineering proposals
• Material substitutions

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Deliverables

• Full technical specification manuals
• Material & finishes schedules
• Sample boards and mock-up approvals
• Technical review reports
• Fit-out quality standards guide
• Approved alternatives and substitutions log

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Required Qualifications & Experience

• Degree in:
• Architecture
• Civil Engineering
• Construction Management
• Interior Architecture (senior level)
• 8–15 years experience in:
• Construction
• Luxury fit-out
• Hospitality / high-end residential
• Proven experience with:
• Turnkey projects
• Specification writing
• Materials sourcing
• On-site technical decision-making

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Key Skills

• Deep knowledge of:
• Construction materials
• Finishes systems
• Installation methodologies
• Strong technical writing ability
• High attention to detail
• Strong coordination and authority on site
• Commercial awareness (cost vs quality)