Specialist Technical Writing

L3Harris • Ashburn, VA

7d • 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 calls for advanced expertise in structured technical data authoring, interpretation of engineering and logistics information, and production of clear, accurate, compliant documentation. The writer works independently and may lead complex projects, ensuring consistency, standards compliance, and timely delivery.

The position is onsite in Ashburn, Virginia, on a 9/80 schedule: employees work nine days in each 14-day period, totaling 80 hours, with every other Friday off. Occasional after-hours or weekend support may be needed for escalations and on-call requirements. External candidates who currently hold an active U.S. security clearance are eligible for a $10,000 sign-on bonus.

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 maintaining S1000D technical manual content, including Data Modules, DMC structures, and Publication Modules.
• Experience authoring XML-based documentation with S1000D-compliant tools, such as Arbortext.
• Proficiency in Simplified Technical English (STE) and controlled-language implementation.
• Proficiency with Confluence, SharePoint for version control and document management, Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, schematics, wiring diagrams, parts lists, and other engineering and logistics data.
• Strong understanding of configuration management and the effect of engineering changes on documentation.
• Experience with S1000D-compliant authoring tools, content management systems (CSDB), and publication frameworks.
• Excellent written communication, meticulous attention to detail, and ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to organize complex technical information and author structured content across multiple documentation types.

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.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams, 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 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 technical information and validate content accuracy.
• Conduct detailed quality reviews for structure, formatting consistency, clarity, and compliance with S1000D, MIL-STD-24784, and controlled-language requirements.
• Support integration, organization, and maintenance of S1000D content in a Common Source Database (CSDB).
• Assist with developing and maintaining style guides, templates, workflows, and best practices for S1000D-based content production.
• Produce structured technical publications such as technical manuals, work packages, illustrated parts books, smart books, and system-level maintenance documentation.
• Interpret and 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.
• Manage complex technical information and structured content across multiple documentation types.

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 with an active U.S. security clearance

What This Job Offers

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