Technical Writer

Abbott Laboratories; Madison (WI); On-site; USD 61,000 - 123,000; Full time

Job summary

Abbott Laboratories in Madison, WI is seeking an experienced Technical Writer to produce and revise documentation for instruments, automation, SOPs, study protocols, and training materials.

You will partner with SMEs across regulatory, quality, R&D, and operations to create clear, accurate content. The role requires strong English writing skills, detail orientation, and ability to work in a regulated environment with strict documentation controls. Travel up to 10% may be required.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or higher in a related field or high school diploma with 2+ years of relevant experience.
• 3+ years of technical writing in engineering, biotech, or software.
• Experience in a regulated document control environment.
• Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office applications and document formatting.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with SMEs to create and evolve technical documentation.
• Write, revise, and edit procedures, SOPs, study protocols, and reports.
• Manage project schedules and meet deadlines.
• Reconcile SME comments to ensure accuracy and usability.
• Create graphics/illustrations to support written content.
• Ensure documents meet quality standards and reader comprehension.
• Travel up to 10% between Abbott locations.

Skills

Technical writing

Document control

MS Office

Regulatory compliance

English proficiency

Education

Associate degree (Biotech/Engineering/Technical Communications)

High school + 2+ years experience

Tools

Microsoft Word

PowerPoint

Excel

Job description

Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals and branded generic medicines. Our 122,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries.

The Opportunity

The Technical Writer is responsible for creating and modifying technical documents related to instruments and automation such as service procedures, user and service manuals, and training materials. The Technical Writer is also responsible for creating and modifying technical documents related to test platforms and products, such as standard operating procedures (SOPs), study protocols, reports, and customer notifications. This role will compose clear technical documentation to explain complex information in a coherent and concise manner, partnering with subject matter experts to ensure accuracy of process descriptions.

What You’ll Work On

Include but are not limited to the following:

• Engaging with internal departments as a consultant and supporting document creation/evolution.
• Engaging with internal departments and seeking to understand their documentation gaps and needs.
• Creating, adapting, and following project schedules and deadlines.
• Leading effective pre-review of draft documents with subject matter experts (SMEs) and reconciling comments to ensure accuracy and usability.
• Writing, revising, editing, and organizing technical information to aid users in performing a complex process without prior knowledge.
• Partnering with cross-functional SME representatives from Technical Services, Regulatory Affairs, Quality, Systems Development, Operations, Research & Development (R&D), Abbott Laboratories, Metrology, Instrument Production, Sustaining Engineering, and others as required to obtain an in-depth understanding of the product, the audience, and the documentation requirements.
• Working collaboratively with document users and SMEs and owning the creation and evolution of applicable documentation.
• Determining the clearest and most logical way to present information and instructions for greatest reader comprehension.
• Creating and/or applying graphics and illustrations to support written content, increase users’ understanding, elaborate on, or complement technical writing.
• Producing high-quality documentation that meets applicable standards and is appropriate for the intended audience.
• Writing, revising, editing, or updating instructions, technical information, and frequently asked questions as necessary.
• Remaining current on product developments and document requirements.
• Ability to deliver high quality documentation with attention to detail.
• Ability to quickly grasp complex technical concepts and make them easily understandable in text and images.
• Ability to write in explanatory and procedural styles for multiple audiences.
• Excellent written skills in English.
• Strong time management skills including prioritization.
• Excellent organizational skills including aptitude in multi-tasking.
• Strong verbal communication and ability to collaborate cross functionally.
• Uphold company mission and values through accountability, innovation, integrity, quality, and teamwork.
• Ability to act with an inclusion mindset and model these behaviors for the organization.
• Support and comply with the company’s Quality Management System policies and procedures.
• Ability to maintain regular and reliable attendance.
• Ability to work designated schedule.
• Ability to lift up to 10 pounds for approximately 5% of a typical working day.
• Ability to work on a mobile device, tablet, or in front of a computer screen and/or perform typing for approximately 90% of a typical working day.
• Ability to comply with any applicable personal protective equipment requirements.
• Ability and means to travel between Abbott locations.
• Ability to travel 10% of working time away from work location; may include overnight/weekend travel.

Required Qualifications

• Associate degree in Biotechnology, Engineering, Technical Communications, or related field; or high school degree/general education diploma and 2+ years of relevant experience in lieu of degree.
• 3+ years of technical writing experience in an engineering, biotechnology, or software field.
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative and drive work effectively to completion.
• Professional experience working within a regulated document control environment.
• Basic computer skills to include Internet navigation and email usage.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Professional applications to include Word styles, PowerPoint, Excel macros and pivot tables.
• Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship.
• Demonstrated ability to perform the Essential Duties of the position with or without accommodation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional working experience in an equipment/hardware technical writing position.
• Experience in a GMP and/or ISO 13485 environment.
• Knowledge of ISO 17025:2005 and/or 21CFR Part 820 requirements related to inspection, measuring, and test equipment.
• Hands on experience servicing laboratory equipment.

The base pay for this position is $61,300.00 - $122,700.00. In specific locations, the pay range may vary from the range posted.