Technical Writer

Austal; Western Australia; Hybrid; AUD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Austal Defence Australia (ADA) is seeking an ILS Technical Writer to develop and maintain technical publications supporting complex defence systems. You will create high-quality documentation and IETPs, applying S1000D standards and IPS frameworks within a defence environment.

You will collaborate with engineering, supply support and training teams, manage publication lifecycles, and ensure accuracy and compliance across documents and graphics.

Qualifications

• Diploma or Advanced Diploma in Technical Writing or related discipline or equivalent industry experience.
• Bachelor qualification in Engineering, Technical Communication or related discipline.
• Experience developing technical documentation within defence, maritime or engineering environments.
• Knowledge of S1000D specifications and CSDB systems.
• Strong technical writing and stakeholder engagement skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop, author and maintain technical publications for operation, maintenance and training.
• Produce and manage Interactive Electronic Technical Publications (IETPs).
• Apply S1000D standards, business rules and CSDB practices.
• Collaborate with engineering, supply support, training teams and subject matter experts.
• Conduct quality assurance reviews for technical accuracy and compliance.
• Manage publication lifecycle activities and configuration control.

Skills

Technical writing

Stakeholder engagement

Communication skills

Quality assurance

Publication lifecycle

IETP content

Education

Diploma/Advanced Diploma in Technical Writing or related

Bachelor qualification in Engineering or Technical Communication

Tools

CSDB systems

S1000D specifications

Job description

As the ILS Technical Writer for Austal Defence Australia (ADA), you'll be responsible for developing and maintaining technical publications that support the operation, maintenance and sustainment of complex defence systems. Working closely with engineering, supply support, training teams and operators, you'll create high-quality technical documentation and Interactive Electronic Technical Publications (IETPs) that contribute to operational readiness and long-term asset support.

This is an excellent opportunity for a technical writer or publications specialist to apply their expertise within a complex defence environment while working with industry standards such as S1000D and Integrated Product Support (IPS) frameworks.

About Austal

Austal isAustralia’s global shipbuilder, Defence prime contractor; and maritime technology partner of choice. We design, construct, and support defence and commercial vessels for the world’s leading operators with operations spanning Australia, the USA, Philippines, and Vietnam.

Under the Strategic Shipbuilding Agreement, Austal is leading a new era of continuous naval shipbuilding in Western Australia. We’re driving innovation, supporting sovereign capability, and creating long-term opportunities for Australian industry and workers.

This is your opportunity to contribute to projects of national significance. The maritime is now.

What’s Involved

• Develop, author and maintain technical publications, including operator, maintenance and training documentation.
• Produce and manage Interactive Electronic Technical Publications (IETPs).
• Apply S1000D standards, business rules and CSDB practices.
• Collaborate with engineering, supply support, training teams and subject matter experts.
• Conduct quality assurance reviews to ensure technical accuracy and compliance.
• Manage configuration control, technical data updates and publication lifecycle activities.

You’ll Need

• Diploma or Advanced Diploma in Technical Writing, Engineering, Information Management or a related discipline, or equivalent industry experience.
• Eligibility for a Defence Security Clearance (Australian Citizenship required).
• Experience developing technical documentation within defence, maritime or engineering environments.
• Knowledge of S1000D specifications, structured authoring and CSDB systems.
• Strong technical writing, stakeholder engagement and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple deliverables while maintaining quality and accuracy.
• Experience within naval, shipbuilding, land systems or defence programs.
• Familiarity with Defence standards and frameworks.
• Knowledge of other S-Series IPS specifications.
• Experience integrating graphics, animations or interactive content within publications.
• Understanding of human factors and usability principles.
• Bachelor qualification in Engineering, Technical Communication or a related discipline

Why Join Us?

• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• A supportive and dynamic work environment.
• Opportunities for career advancement within our growing organisation.

At Austal we are committed to providing a safe and inclusive work environment for all. We believe that achieving greater diversity will enhance our operations and as such we actively encourage Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders, people of all backgrounds, ages, sexual orientation, and those with Disability to apply. Veterans are also encouraged to apply.

Salary

Optional 9 day fortnight | Career Growth