Technical Writer

As a Technical Writer at Bowhead, you will develop and maintain a variety of technical documents for the Expeditionary Warfare – Small Arms Division. Your main responsibilities will include creating diagrams and graphics to improve user understanding, editing and reviewing drafts for clarity and adherence to specifications, and collaborating with subject matter experts to ensure the accuracy and consistency of the technical content.

To qualify for the Technical Writer position at Bowhead, candidates should have at least a Bachelor's or Associate’s degree alongside eight to ten years of experience in proofreading and editing technical documentation. Ideal candidates will also have a deep knowledge of Department of Defense processes and possess expert skills in Microsoft Office applications. A Master's degree and military experience are preferred.

A successful Technical Writer at Bowhead must possess strong writing and editing skills, with proficiency in Microsoft Office tools like Word and Excel. Excellent communication skills are crucial for liaising with team members and stakeholders, while the ability to work independently as well as within a team is vital. Candidates should also be familiar with military supply chain processes.

The working environment for a Technical Writer at Bowhead is collaborative and team-oriented, with opportunities to participate in project meetings and validation events. Writers will interact regularly with subject matter experts and various personnel while engaging in tasks that may require physical activity, such as lifting and standing for extended periods.

Yes, a security clearance at the Secret level is required for the Technical Writer position at Bowhead. Applicants who already hold a Secret clearance are strongly encouraged to apply. U.S. Citizenship is mandatory for obtaining this clearance.

When describing your technical writing experience, focus on specific projects where you developed or edited documentation that adhered to guidelines. Highlight your collaboration with SMEs and your familiarity with military processes that pertain to the content you worked on, showing your ability to align with Bowhead's requirements.

To ensure accuracy and clarity, I always cross-reference technical data with subject matter experts and utilize checklists for consistency. I also implement revision cycles where peer feedback is encouraged, allowing me to refine documents for clarity and conciseness before final submissions.

I once worked on a complex technical manual under a tight deadline. I managed the challenge by prioritizing key sections, setting milestones, and collaborating closely with SMEs to gather necessary information efficiently. By keeping open lines of communication, we addressed issues quickly, ultimately delivering a comprehensive manual on time.

I primarily use Microsoft Word and Excel for technical writing due to their robust formatting and editing capabilities. Additionally, I often use diagramming tools like Visio for creating visuals, as they help communicate complex information effectively and enhance user understanding.

I regularly attend workshops, webinars, and review industry publications focused on technical writing standards and government specifications. I also maintain a network of industry professionals to exchange information and best practices, ensuring my knowledge remains current and compliant.

My editing process includes initial drafts followed by detailed reviews for structure, clarity, and adherence to guidelines. I employ a combination of self-editing as well as peer reviews which allow additional perspectives that can enhance the document's quality before it's finalized.

I view feedback as an opportunity for growth. I listen actively, ask clarifying questions if needed, and incorporate suggestions into my writing. Constructive criticism helps me refine my work, and I always strive to learn from each review process.

In a recent project, I set up regular check-in meetings with SMEs to ensure alignment on document objectives. I prepared questions in advance while also sharing sections of the draft for their input, which fostered an open dialogue and allowed me to gather accurate, relevant information for the project.

I prioritize tasks based on urgency and complexity, breaking larger projects into manageable parts. By creating a timeline and setting specific milestones, I can efficiently allocate my time to ensure timely completion, remaining adaptable should new priorities arise.

Technical writing is crucial in the military sector as it ensures that protocols, instructions, and technical information are clearly communicated. Accurate documentation enhances operational effectiveness, supports training, and ensures safety by providing users with the information they need to perform their duties correctly.