Technical Writer
About the role
We’re looking for a Technical Writer who wants more than a documentation role—someone who will embed directly with our Secure Network Systems (SNS) engineering team, helping shape how complex systems are understood, delivered, and maintained.
- Turn complex hardware, software, and network concepts into clear, user-friendly documentation
- Create and maintain guides like installation manuals, system architecture docs, and data flow diagrams
- Collaborate directly with engineers, program managers, and cross-functional teams
- Help shape documentation standards and improve how we share knowledge across teams
- Work with modern tools and platforms (Agile workflows, wikis, repositories, and more)
- Enable engineering teams to deliver faster and more efficiently through clear, high-quality documentation
- Translate complex systems (networking, security, hardware/software) into accessible, actionable content
- Serve as a trusted partner to engineers and program managers
Career Growth
- Grow into a documentation lead or strategist
- Build expertise in secure communications and advanced networking systems
- Mentor other writers and shape documentation best practices
- Expand influence across programs and engineering organizations
Responsibilities
- Create and maintain technical documentation, including:
- Installation, operation, and maintenance manuals
- Security configurations and plans
- System architecture and interface documentation
- Data flow diagrams and technical deliverables
- Collaborate closely with engineers and program teams to gather, interpret, and validate technical information
- Lead documentation efforts across multiple projects within the Secure Network Systems (SNS) organization
- Establish and enforce documentation standards aligned with industry frameworks (DoD, NIST, ISO)
- Manage and organize content across documentation tools and repositories (e.g., wikis, SharePoint, version-controlled systems)
- Support Agile development environments and evolving technical requirements
This is an embedded role. You’ll work directly within engineering teams—building context quickly, establishing trust, and playing a key role in how work gets delivered.
Why This Role Is Unique
- Mission impact – Your work supports secure communications used in real-world, high-stakes environments
- Embedded collaboration – Work directly within engineering teams, not as a detached service organization
- Ownership & Influence – Lead documentation strategy and execution for key programs
- Cross-functional exposure – Collaborate with engineers, architects, and program leaders
- Portfolio-building & Variety – Create documentation you’ll be proud to show, ranging a broad variety of content types and subjects
Requirements
- Current Security Clearance
- Willingness to work onsite in Carlsbad and collaborate across teams
- Experience creating technical documentation for software, hardware, or networked systems
- Strong curiosity and the ability to understand and communicate complex technical concepts
- Excellent writing, interviewing, and analytical skills
- Ability to collaborate effectively with engineering and program teams
- Strong ability to work independently and maintain deadlines
- Extensive experience with Microsoft Office tools (including Visio)
- Experience with Adobe tools (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
- U.S. citizenship (required for this role)
Tools & Environment
You’ll work in a modern, collaborative environment using:
- Documentation repositories and platforms (AI, GitHub, Confluence, SharePoint, Wikis)
- Creative software from Adobe, MadCap, Microsoft 365, SolidWorks, and others
- Version control and content management tools
- Agile workflows and cross-functional collaboration
- Engineering artifacts such as schematics, architecture diagrams, and interface documents
Skills
Bonus Points if You Have
- Experience with networking, cybersecurity, or system architecture
- Familiarity with DoD, NIST, or ISO documentation standards
- Experience working in Agile environments
- Familiarity with tools such as:
- Confluence, SharePoint, or wiki platforms
- Version control systems (e.g., Oricle Agile, Perforce)
- Exposure to CAD tools, diagrams, or visual storytelling
- Experience with technical diagrams and structured documentation formats
What Makes You Stand Out
- You enjoy learning how systems work — not just documenting them
- You’re comfortable talking to engineers and translating their expertise into something clear
- You care about good documentation, not just getting the job done
Pay
Salary range $82,000.00 - $129,500.00 / annually. For specific work locations within San Jose, the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, the base pay range for this role is $102,000.00- $153,000.00/ annually.
At Viasat, we consider many factors when it comes to compensation, including the scope of the position as well as your background and experience. Base pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Additional cash or stock incentives may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered.
Benefits
Learn more about Viasat’s comprehensive benefit offerings that are focused on your holistic health and wellness at https://careers.viasat.com/benefits.