Technical Writer, Level 3

Under the direction of the Engineering Documentation Manager, the Technical Writer shall perform a variety of functions associated with the production of technical documents and materials within deadlines set by supervisor. Job duties include:

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Write technical documents such as product and assembly manuals in clear and concise language. Manuals include text on assembly, operation and maintenance as well as checklists, pictures and illustrations of equipment. Information also may include sketches, specifications, articles and drawings. May revise articles, bulletins and manuals, or may create new materials from scratch. Ability to write in reader appropriate terms and specific details.
• Create manuals and other documents in Valtir format, importing charts, graphs, photos and drawings as required. Ability to capture and manipulate CAD drawing images for use in these documents. Follow Valtir procedures for generating documents.
• Perform independent product research for document creation. This includes communicating with design and production support engineers, drafters, technicians, marketing and legal to acquire necessary information to prepare detailed original manuals.
• Create .pdf files for printing per vendor standards. Distribute in a timely manner following proper procedures.
• Perform hands-on technical work (i.e., helping with or observing the assembly of a new product) on a periodic basis, for the purpose of acquiring “real world” knowledge that will be used to create accurate documents.

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Perform other duties and assignments as directed by manager.

QUALIFICATIONS

• College degree (B.S. or B.A.) with an emphasis in a technical field, OR five (5) years’ experience as a technical writer.
• Fluent in InDesign (preferred), MS Word or PageMaker as well as Adobe Acrobat.
• Ability to create written documents describing technical products from scratch at a high level.
• High level of technical & mechanical understanding.
• Advanced knowledge of importing drawings, charts, graphs & photos.
• Advanced ability to read and understand rough drafts & working with engineers to finalize documents.
• Additional computer skills required: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Visio), Adobe PDF Acrobat
• Intermediate Knowledge of CAD programs, preferably Autodesk Inventor and AutoCAD, for creating views, exploded assemblies and graphics a plus.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

The person in this position must be able to remain in a stationary position 75% of the time and constantly operate a computer and other office machinery such as a copier or computer printer. They must have the ability to occasionally move about inside the office and shop area to work with others. They must also be able to move file boxes and other equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Majority of work will be performed in a climate-controlled office setting at a computer workstation. The Technical Writer may be periodically required to observe or assist in the assembly of products, or complete technical audits outside in all types of weather to aid in creating documents. Work is conducted most often in close coordination with other departments within Valtir in a Team effort with positive collaboration.

Pay Range: $27.67-$41.50/hr