Technical Writer

Downer Professional Services; Canberra; On-site; AUD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare discounts

Retail discounts

Veteran support programs

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

A leading consulting firm in Canberra is seeking a Technical Writer to develop and maintain Defence-compliant documentation for CJC16 projects. The ideal candidate will possess Defence-standard documentation capabilities and collaborate effectively with System Managers and technical SMEs. This role requires a strong work ethic and commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes. Join us in safeguarding Australia's future by contributing to critical Defence projects with a focus on professional development and inclusive work culture.

Qualifications

• Current Negative Vetting 1 security clearance required.
• Ability to develop and maintain documentation that meets Defence templates.
• Strong collaboration with System Managers and SMEs.

Responsibilities

• Develop, review and maintain Defence-compliant documentation.
• Produce operational and technical documentation ensuring accuracy.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to maintain governance compliance.

Skills

Defence-standard documentation capability

Collaboration with technical SMEs

High-level analytical skills

Records and configuration management discipline

Excellent communication and editing skills

Job description

Join our Downer Professional Services team and play a key role in delivering complex defence and national security projects that safeguard Australia’s future.

Downer Professional Services comprises of three business units our Technical, Advisory, and Capability consulting practice, and Team Downer, which partners with CASG and NSSG as a major service provider to Defence. Together, we are a multi-disciplinary advisory and delivery partner of choice for clients across Defence and National Security.

We currently have an opportunity for a Technical Writer in Canberra to work on CJC16 projects.

What You’ll Do

This role offers a broad scope, with key role responsibilities including:

• Develop, review and maintain Defence‑compliant documentation and process artefacts supporting CJC16 deployed ICT delivery assurance and governance.
• Produce and validate operational, technical and moderation/editing documentation, ensuring accuracy, readability and alignment with Defence standards and templates.
• Support System Managers by documenting functional specifications, baseline capability definitions, briefs, minutes and formal correspondence for in‑service products.
• Build deep product understanding to ensure documentation accurately reflects requirements, while maintaining the CJC16 sustainment master records list and broader records‑management structure.
• Collaborate with SMEs and stakeholders to update artefacts, coordinate reviews and maintain governance compliance, ensuring all documentation remains current and fit for purpose.

What You’ll Bring

• Strong Defence‑standard documentation capability, able to develop, review and maintain operational, technical and governance artefacts that meet strict Defence templates and writing requirements.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with technical SMEs and System Managers, supporting the creation of functional specifications, baseline capability definitions and formal Defence correspondence.
• High‑level analytical and comprehension skills, enabling deep understanding of in‑service products to ensure documentation accurately reflects system behaviour, requirements and sustainment needs.
• Strong records and configuration management discipline, maintaining the CJC16 sustainment master records list and contributing to a robust records‑management structure.
• Excellent communication, editing and coordination skills, producing high‑quality documentation, moderation/editing packs, and supporting governance, assurance and decision‑making processes across CJC16

Due to the nature of the work, you are required to currently hold and maintain a minimum Negative Vetting 1 or higher Security clearance as required by the Commonwealth. In some instances, compliance with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) requirements may also be an inherent requirement.

More than anything, you’ll bring a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes for our clients.

Why Downer Professional Services

At Downer Professional Services, we’re not just a workplace - we’re a business dedicated to contributing to the shaping of the future of defence in Australia. As the country’s only sovereign prime, we’re committed to making a real difference in protecting Australia’s interests.

What is means to belong at Downer Professional Services

• Meaningful work: Help to deliver critical Defence projects that protect Australia and shape its future.
• Professional development: Access career mapping, accelerated learning programs, and shared learning through our Communities of Practice.
• Great perks: Enjoy discounts on healthcare, retail, vehicles, and more through Perks@Downer.
• Veteran support: Benefit from initiatives like up to 20 days of Reservist Leave to stay connected post-service.

You want your work to matter and so do we. With over 26,000 people across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific, our team is made up of individuals with unique perspectives, backgrounds, and ideas.

We know that diversity makes us stronger and we actively celebrate it through our commitment to inclusion and belonging.

We’re committed to building a team that reflects the diverse communities we serve and we welcome people of all ages, genders, sexual orientations, cultures, abilities, and lived experiences. We especially encourage applications from those whose voices have traditionally been underrepresented in our industry, including women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, Māori and Pasifika Peoples, veterans, people with disability, and neurodivergent individuals. Even if your experience doesn’t align perfectly with this role, we’d still like to hear from you. If it feels like the right fit, apply - potential counts, and so do you.

As a WORK180 Endorsed Employer, we support flexibility that works for your life, inclusive leadership that values your voice, and equitable access to opportunity so you can do your best work and bring your whole self to it.

If you need support or adjustments through the recruitment process, just let us know, we’re here to help you put your best foot forward.