JOB SUMMARY

ASI is seeking an experienced technical communicator to guide users of all backgrounds through the operation of complex unmanned vehicle systems. This consists mostly of software documentation but may also include physical installation and repair instructions.

That's the boring description. Now let me be clear: We're not writing manuals for toaster ovens. We're writing manuals for robotic vehicles of all shapes and sizes, from little security bots to 400-ton trucks.

What would an insider say about this job?

I could call it fast-paced. I could call it exciting and cutting-edge. What I would never call it is boring, and that's saying something for a technical communication job. But you have to be proactive, self-driven, and smart to do well here. You can't sit around waiting for someone to tell you what to do. You have to converse, collaborate, and think really hard. Pay attention to the details and keep track of everything. Be a writer, a listener, and a diplomat.

The person we're looking for has mastered the writing and editing skills for producing good technical content, and has a good working knowledge of content production, management, and strategy. They have a basic understanding of engineering processes and tools. They are capable of managing a tech comm team and taking ultimate responsibility for its output.

   ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Meets with the Product Manager to determine the documentation needs for the project.
• Researches how the product will be used.
• Takes digital pictures or screenshots and prepares illustrations of the product to be used in the documentation.
• Interacts with engineers, testers, and support personnel, gleaning knowledge of complex systems.
• Makes complex or difficult procedures easy to understand and follow, creating relevant illustrations. 
• Organizes information so users can find what they need when they need it.
• In addition to end-user documentation, also assists with engineering documents, reports, and other internal documents including legal and certification documents for product sign off.
• Helps improve documents by doing comprehensive editing for grammar and clarity.
• Reformats Word documents.
• Helps define and improve processes to make all ASI's documents accessible and keep them accurate. 
• Learns new software and picks up skills on the fly, particularly ASI's products and development tools. 
• Occasional travel is required.

ESSENTIAL EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE, JOB SKILLS

• Bachelor's degree in English, Journalism, Communication, or related field, or equivalent work experience
• Stays up-to-date with technical communication trends
• Six or more years of experience in professional/technical writing
• About 5% to 10% of the time travel will be required. 
• Excellent knowledge of English grammar and usage
• Writes clear, concise, and flawless procedures
• Deep knowledge of office software use and troubleshooting
• Experienced in writing/editing technical documentation such as APIs and ICDs
• Understanding of XML, HTML, CSS, and single-source publishing
• Learns new applications and systems quickly
• Experience in scripting and process/workflow automation
• Basic understanding of content lifecycle and strategy
• Creates or works with others to create professional-looking, helpful illustrations using a variety of methods