Technical Writer-Editor II

Position Summary

The Technical Writer-Editor II is responsible for the research, generation, and comprehensive editorial refinement of a wide range of materials, including magazine features, technical reports, and system documentation. This role serves as a critical bridge between technical experts and diverse audiences, transforming raw data, engineering jargon, and complex research into clear, authoritative, and accessible content. The Writer-Editor manages the full document lifecycle—from initial outline and subject matter interviews to final production—ensuring all materials meet the highest standards of accuracy, stylistic quality, and Federal compliance.

Responsibilities

• Research and write original content for magazines, newsletters, user manuals, and research documents.
• Collaborate closely with engineers, developers, and technical staff to distill complex concepts into concise narratives, feature articles, and guest editorials.
• Provide comprehensive editorial support across all production stages for both print and electronic formats, including substantive editing, rephrasing, and rewriting to improve logical flow, coherency, and organizational structure while correcting errors in grammar, spelling, and format.
• Verify technical accuracy by drawing information from existing materials, conducting interviews, and attending conferences.
• Perform rigorous fact-checking, reference checking, and data verification to ensure all schematics and tables are seamlessly integrated with the text.
• Ensure all content adheres to the GPO Style Manual and the Chicago Manual of Style.
• Maintain strict compliance with Section 508 accessibility requirements and manage all necessary copyright and permission clearances.
• Work independently to manage the full lifecycle of a document or article.
• Implement quality assurance protocols and version control, often navigating multiple edit cycles with various stakeholders to reach final publication.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Technical Writing, English, Communications, Journalism, or a related scientific/technical field.
• Minimum of 5–10 years of professional experience in technical writing, editing, and publishing.
• Demonstrated expertise in applying major style guides (GPO and Chicago) and ensuring Section 508 compliance.
• Experience in the transportation sector, particularly highway and surface transportation research, is highly preferred.