Technical Writer I

AeroVironment; Moorpark (CA); On-site; USD 57,000 - 86,000; Full time

Job summary

AeroVironment, Inc. is hiring an entry-level Technical Writer I to join the Technical Publications team in Moorpark, CA. You will document product use with engineers and managers, update templates, and assist with marketing and proposals.

Under supervision, you will develop documentation from manuals to white papers, coordinating with staff to ensure quality and timely delivery across several publication channels.

Qualifications

• AA degree in English or Technical Writing required.
• 0–2 years in aviation/defense or aerospace preferred.
• Familiar with HTML, XML or Markdown.
• Proficient in MS Word; knowledge of Excel/PowerPoint.
• Knowledge of FrameMaker, InDesign, Illustrator desirable.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate technical publication projects, integrating copy from multiple authors.
• Write, format, edit, and copyedit manuals, white papers, and marketing materials.
• Proofread and edit docs for grammar and style per established guidelines.
• Coordinate graphics/layout with designers and ensure template consistency.
• Maintain and update Word templates used across the organization.
• Assist with proposal activity including binding documents and reviews.
• Support deadlines and manage multiple projects under supervision.

Skills

Technical writing

Communication

HTML

XML

Markdown

Education

AA degree in English

AA degree in Technical Writing

Bachelor's degree preferred

Tools

MS Word

MS Excel

PowerPoint

Adobe FrameMaker

InDesign

Photoshop

Illustrator

Job description

Worker Type

Regular

Job Description

The Technical Writer I position is an entry-level position designed to introduce the candidate to the career field of technical writing. This person works with the Technical Publications team to produce high-quality documentation that extends from manuals to white papers to template creation. A Technical Writer I works collaboratively with a variety of engineers, product managers, and subject‑matter experts to document the intended use of the company's products. This person will be asked to update and maintain templates, assist with marketing and proposal materials, and coordinate tasks to properly update technical documentation. This entry-level position works under the supervision of a supervisor or manager.

Position Responsibilities

• Coordinates various technical publication projects, which may include incorporating copy from many authors into one publication
• Writes, formats, edits, proofreads, and copyedits a variety of documents, including technical manuals, white papers, and marketing materials
• Proofreads, reviews, and edits documentation for accurate use of grammar and content according to a pre‑established style guide and templates
• Coordinates the display of graphics, layout of pages, and pre‑print production with technical illustrator/graphic designer
• Works with existing templates and ensures documents meet established content and formatting standards
• Collaborates with technical staff and/or other writers in preparation of content for a variety of publications
• Supports projects through every step of the process, providing accuracy and quality control, and ensuring all publication deadlines are met
• Maintains working knowledge of company products; Works with supervisor to manage multiple projects
• Assists in creating and updating Word templates used throughout the organization
• May be asked to assist with proposal activity, including binding documents, printing tabs, and assisting with reviews
• Works on problems of limited scope. Follows standard practices & procedures in analyzing situations or data from which answers can be readily obtained
• Other duties as assigned

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)

• AA degree English, Technical Writing, Communication or equivalent disciplines is required or equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
• 0 - 2 years of experience in the field, preferably in the following industries: aviation, defense or aerospace
• Novice level of HTML, XML or Markdown coding
• Must be able to work under pressure and within strict deadlines
• Strong Mechanical and Technical aptitude.
• Proficiency in MS Word required. Intermediate knowledge of MS Excel and PowerPoint required. Basic knowledge of Adobe FrameMaker required. Knowledge of InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator desired
• Strong written and verbal communication skills required.
• Ability to interact with all levels of the organization
• Exemplary attention to detail and strong organizational skills; Superb grammar skills
• Knowledge of proofreader's symbols required.
• Understanding of Database structures and best practices.

Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies

• Bachelor's degree is preferred
• Familiarity with DoD/Govt. contracting and the aerospace industry helpful
• Knowledge of Adobe FrameMaker, Adobe Acrobat, Adobe PhotoShop, and Adobe Illustrator helpful
• Able to excel in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment, where small teams share a broad variety of duties
• Displays strong initiative and drive to accomplish goals and meet company objectives
• Takes ownership and responsibility for current and past work products
• Is committed to learning from mistakes and driven to improve and enhance performance of oneself, others, and the company
• Focuses on teamwork, collaboration and puts the success of the team above one's own interests

Physical Demands

• Ability to work in an office environment (Constant).
• Required to sit and stand for long periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (Frequent).

Clearance Level

No Clearance

Salary

The salary range for this role is: $56,500 - $86,250

AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills.

ITAR Requirement

This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations ("ITAR") and/or the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR"). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment's determination that it will be able to obtain an export lic