Senior Technical Writer (Defense/Automotive industry)

Position Description:

This role involves creating and revising complex technical documentation that supports the marketing, operation, repair, and maintenance of company products. Responsibilities include:

• Ensuring documents conform to company and government standards, specifications, and language usage principles.
• Using state-of-the-art publishing software technology to create product descriptions, operating procedures, fault isolation, maintenance/repair procedures, illustrated parts breakdowns (IPB), and other technical documentation.
• Consulting with engineering staff to create and revise documentation, and analyzing engineering drawings and technical data to translate them into understandable content.
• Evaluating illustrations/graphics and determining how best to incorporate them into documentation, as well as requesting creation/changes to illustrations.
• Assisting with time and cost estimates for projects and inputting into the overall design of technical documentation (format and style).
• Keeping up-to-date with industry trends, practices, and applications.
• Ensuring compliance with safety objectives and policies.

Skills Required:

• Working knowledge of hydraulics, mechanics, electronics, and system operations to write technical documentation.
• Proficiency in publication software and ability to translate engineering designs into clear, understandable language.
• Ability to write technical documentation for limited scope and complexity.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work with cross-functional team members.
• Attention to detail and command of the English language.
• Experience with XML Authoring Tools (e.g., Arbortext Epic Editor, Oxygen Software).
• Proficiency with MS Office Tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint; Access a plus).
• Proficiency in Adobe Acrobat Professional for illustration markups or similar PDF markup tools.
• Experience in mechanical, electrical, or operator technical writing, preferably in the defense industry.
• Customer interaction/customer service skills (some roles involve direct customer interface).
• Ability to work with a diverse team in multiple physical locations.
• Basic understanding of interactive electronic technical manual functionality and markup languages (preferred).
• Familiarity with military and commercial standards.

Skills Preferred:

• Experience in validation/verification, on-vehicle experience a plus.
• Experience with Content Management Systems (CMS) is a plus.

Experience Required:

• Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant technical discipline or equivalent combination of education and experience, plus 2 additional years of relevant experience.

Experience Preferred:

• Experience in the defense industry.
• Experience in the automotive industry.

Education Required:

• Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant technical discipline or an equivalent combination of education and experience, plus 2 additional years of relevant experience.