Technical Writer

Automatic Data Processing, Inc.; Ankeny (IA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Automatic Data Processing, Inc. seeks a Technical Writer to create clear, compliant manuals for U.S. and international product launches. You will work with Engineering, Product Management, Compliance, and Supply Chain to translate complex product information into user-friendly documentation.

You will draft templates, maintain style guides, and coordinate reviews, ensuring timely handoffs to production. Proficiency in Adobe InDesign and strong communication are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Technical Communication, Engineering, English, Journalism, Communications, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• 0 to 2 years of experience in technical writing, business analysis, or related role.
• Advanced proficiency in Adobe InDesign preferred.
• Experience drafting structured documentation such as requirements, SOPs, or technical specifications.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and ask effective questions to clarify assignments and requirements.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate cross-functionally in the creation and revision of user manuals for U.S. and international product launches.
• Write, edit, proofread, and finalize technical documentation in electronic and print-ready formats.
• Manage layout, formatting, and production of manuals using Adobe Creative Cloud InDesign or similar document layout software.
• Draft and maintain documentation templates, formatting standards, and style guides to ensure consistency and brand alignment.
• Coordinate manual review cycles, incorporate revisions, and track documentation through final approval.
• Facilitate documentation handoffs to the Supply Chain team and support the production approval process.

Skills

Cross-functional

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Tools

Adobe InDesign

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Technical Writer

2 days ago Requisition ID: 1359

Role Clarity

The Technical Writer plays a key role in bringing products to market by creating clear, accurate, and user-friendly documentation for U.S. and international launches. In partnership with Engineering, Product Management, Compliance, and Supply Chain, this role translates complex product information into compliant, well-structured manuals and supporting materials.

Essential Job Functions

• Collaborate cross-functionally in the creation and revision of user manuals for U.S. and international product launches.
• Write, edit, proofread, and finalize technical documentation in electronic and print-ready formats.
• Manage layout, formatting, and production of manuals using Adobe Creative Cloud InDesign or similar document layout software.
• Draft and maintain documentation templates, formatting standards, and style guides to ensure consistency and brand alignment.
• Coordinate manual review cycles, incorporate revisions, and track documentation through final approval.
• Facilitate documentation handoffs to the Supply Chain team and support the production approval process.

Product Requirements & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Engineering/Compliance and Product Management to gather and document product requirements.
• Assist in drafting and refining Product Requirement Documents (PRDs) and feature specifications.
• Create process flow diagrams, operating procedures, implementation plans, and product change documentation.
• Organize and facilitate requirements-gathering sessions and documentation review meetings.
• Support Product Management in documenting feature updates and engineering change requests to ensure clarity and cross-functional alignment.

Regulatory Compliance & Global Support

• Align with partners internally to ensure manuals meet U.S., EU, and other international regulatory requirements, including CE standards, safety warnings, and labeling standards.
• Coordinate translation and localization efforts for international markets.

Documentation Systems & Process Management

• Maintain a centralized electronic documentation library and document control processes.
• Continuously improve documentation workflows, standards, and version control practices.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education and/or Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Technical Communication, Engineering, English, Journalism, Communications, or related field, or equivalent experience
• 0 to 2 years of experience in technical writing, business analysis, or related role.
• Advanced proficiency in Adobe InDesign preferred.
• Experience drafting structured documentation such as requirements, SOPs, or technical specifications.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and ask effective questions to clarify assignments and requirements.

Bonus Skills and Abilities

• Experience working cross-functionally with project management, engineering and product teams.
• Experience in consumer durables, or mechanical products preferred.
• Familiarity with international regulatory documentation (CE marking, EU directives, safety standards) preferred.
• General woodworking knowledge or experience is a plus, but not required.