Specialist Technical Writing

L3Harris Technologies • Ashburn, VA

9d • $73,000 - $135,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Specialist Technical Writer develops, organizes, and maintains high-quality technical documentation in accordance with S1000D, MIL-STD-24784, and program-specific requirements. The role requires advanced expertise in structured technical data authoring, interpreting engineering and logistics information, and producing clear, accurate, standards-compliant documentation. The writer works independently and may lead complex projects, ensuring consistency, adherence to standards, and timely delivery. The position is onsite in Ashburn, Virginia, on a 9/80 schedule: employees work nine out of every 14 days, totaling 80 hours, and have every other Friday off. Occasional after-hours or weekend support may be required based on escalations and on-call requirements. A $10,000 sign-on bonus is offered to external candidates who currently hold an active U.S. security clearance.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and at least 6 years of relevant experience, or a graduate degree and at least 4 years of related experience; in lieu of a degree, at least 10 years of related experience.
• Active U.S. Secret security clearance.
• Extensive experience developing and managing technical manual content in accordance with S1000D and MIL-STD-24784.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, schematics, parts lists, and technical information from subject matter experts.
• Experience creating XML-based documentation with S1000D-compliant authoring tools such as Arbortext.
• Proficiency in Simplified Technical English (STE) and controlled-language implementation.
• Experience producing structured technical publications such as technical manuals, work packages, illustrated parts books, smart books, and system-level maintenance documentation.
• Strong understanding of configuration management and the effect of engineering changes on documentation accuracy and applicability.
• Hands-on experience with S1000D-compliant authoring tools, content management systems (CSDB), and publication frameworks.
• Proficiency in Confluence, SharePoint for version control and document management, Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Excellent written communication, meticulous attention to detail, and ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in English, Information Systems, Communications, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Experience working with a Common Source Database (CSDB).
• Familiarity with SCORM, ATA iSpec 2200, or other structured documentation standards.
• Knowledge of aerospace or defense platforms, maintenance procedures, or technical systems.
• Experience with illustration tools such as IsoDraw or Illustrator for updating technical graphics.
• Hands-on experience authoring and managing documentation in S1000D.
• Proficiency with XML and S1000D-compliant authoring tools.
• Strong understanding of technical publications, structured documentation, and configuration management.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, and system data.
• Excellent written communication, attention to detail, and organizational skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop, update, and manage technical manual content in accordance with S1000D, including Data Modules, DMC structures, and Publication Modules, and with MIL-STD-24784 requirements.
• Interpret engineering drawings, schematics, parts lists, and technical input from subject matter experts.
• Create and maintain XML-based documentation using S1000D-compliant authoring tools such as Arbortext.
• Ensure documentation complies with industry standards, customer requirements, style guides, and project formatting rules.
• Collaborate with the Manager of Technical Writing and engineering, quality, logistics, and project teams to gather information and validate content accuracy.
• Review documentation for structure, formatting consistency, clarity, and compliance with applicable standards and controlled-language requirements.
• Support integration, organization, and maintenance of S1000D content within a Common Source Database (CSDB).
• Assist in developing and maintaining style guides, templates, workflows, and best practices for S1000D content production.
• Organize and author structured content across documentation types, including technical manuals, work packages, illustrated parts books, smart books, and system-level maintenance documentation.
• Analyze engineering data, including system schematics, wiring diagrams, parts lists, provisioning data, and performance specifications.
• Apply configuration management principles and account for engineering changes to maintain documentation accuracy and applicability.
• Work independently and may serve as lead writer for complex projects, delivering work on time.
• Provide occasional after-hours or weekend support based on escalations and on-call requirements.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Disability insurance
• 401(k) match
• Flexible spending accounts
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Education assistance
• Parental leave
• Paid time off
• Company-paid holidays
• $10,000 sign-on bonus for eligible external candidates who currently hold an active U.S. Security Clearance

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior