Technical Writer I - IV *Security Clearance Required*

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. is a leading defense technology company focused on unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology, leveraging proven, cutting-edge methodologies to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks.

Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems (KUAS), a division of Kratos Defense, specializes in developing, delivering, integrating, and supporting high-performance, cost-effective, jet-powered Unmanned Aerial Systems (Targets and Tactical). As a mid-tier defense contractor, KUAS delivers agile and innovative aircraft solutions to the US military and global allies. Our track record in jet-powered subscale targets establishes us as a trusted provider of affordable defense capabilities.

At KUAS, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth, fostering a supportive and dynamic workplace that encourages creativity and professional development while respecting personal and family lives.

About the role

Creates, develops, plans, writes, and edits technical documentation and manuals for customers that describe KUAS products and their usage. Responsibilities include proofing, verification and validation, and preparation of training materials in accordance with contractual requirements.

Responsibilities

• Technical Writer I:
  • Generates documentation per contractual data requirements for projects affecting multiple systems, involving several suppliers/teaming partners, with infrequent customer interface.
  • Manages effort and time within provided budget and schedule; reports project status periodically.
  • Plans and executes projects with attention to detail, utilizing understanding of government contractual requirements (e.g., Data Item Descriptions in CDRL).
  • Interprets technical source data (e.g., interviews with technicians and engineers) into written assembly procedures, illustrations, and descriptions.
  • Prepares formal, controlled technical documentation (e.g., user manuals, technical orders, training materials, flight manuals) in customer-requested formats.
  • Prepares and presents documentation review material for technical interchange meetings with suppliers and customers.
  • Supports business development efforts, including quotes, proposals, and sales.
  • Coordinates and conducts verification and validation activities for technical documentation.
  • Develops and complies with standardized templates and formats for documentation, presentations, and training materials.
  • Adheres to established QMS procedures and tracks time spent on jobs electronically.
• Technical Writer II:
  • Performs all duties of Technical Writer I.
  • Generates documentation for complex projects with frequent customer interface.
  • Conducts customer training and orientation on technical documentation.
  • Acts as a key proposal lead for written technical volumes.
  • Directs assignments of Technical Illustrators and lower-level Technical Writers to ensure compliance and professionalism.
  • Mentors and trains lower-level Technical Writers.
• Technical Writer III:
  • Performs all duties of Technical Writer II under minimal supervision.
  • Provides leadership for the technical writing team by assigning tasks, mentoring, and making key departmental decisions.
  • Maintains knowledge of all technical writers' assignments and reports high-level status to management.
  • Assists with interviewing, hiring, and onboarding new team members.
  • Tracks work quality of lower-level technical writers to ensure excellence.
  • Researches new tools and methods to improve department efficiency and quality.
  • Trains writers, engineers, and management on required tools/software.
• Technical Writer IV:
  • Performs all duties of Technical Writer III.
  • Acts as Lead Technical Writer for complex projects, providing technical and programmatic oversight.
  • Leads the team’s effort and time management within budget and schedule.
  • Reports progress in meeting customer requirements periodically.
  • Provides inputs for bid and proposal efforts.
  • Mentors Level I-III Technical Writers.
  • Supports complex requests from leadership and presents results to the executive team.

Requirements

• Technical Writer I:
  • AA degree in a related field or equivalent combination of education and experience (2 years directly related).
  • Experience in development and maintenance of U.S. military maintenance and operations documentation.
  • Ability to maintain sensitive and confidential information per government standards.
  • Familiarity with Military Standards and Specifications (e.g., MIL-STD-38784, MIL-DTL-23618, MIL-STD-3001).
  • Proficiency with desktop publishing tools (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Enovia DMU Navigator, DWG Editor, Catia, AutoCAD, Arbortext, and/or Framemaker).
  • Strong communication skills and attention to detail.
  • U.S. security clearance at the appropriate level (requires U.S. Citizenship).
• Technical Writer II:
  • Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent combination of education and experience (5 years directly related, preferably in aerospace).
  • Understanding of Military Standards and Specifications for technical manuals.
  • Working knowledge of desktop publishing tools.
• Technical Writer III:
  • Bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field or equivalent combination of education and experience (8 years directly related, preferably in aerospace).
  • Ability to make decisions impacting the Technical Publications team.
  • Public speaking and exceptional one-on-one communication skills.
• Technical Writer IV:
  • Bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field or equivalent combination of education and experience (10 years directly related, preferably in aerospace).
  • Works under minimal supervision; performs advanced, complex work.
  • Frequent outside contacts as liaison with engineering and customers.

Work Environment

• Primarily office or manufacturing environment.
• May work infrequently at manufacturing plants or UAV maintenance/launch facilities.
• May work extended hours or weekends.
• May be required to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Work on/around subscale target/UAV aircraft and ground support equipment.

Travel

0-5% travel may be required between KUAS locations.

Pay

$80,000 - $120,000 annually.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance Coverage
• Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
• Paid Time-Off (PTO) and Holidays
• Education Reimbursement