Senior Technical Writer

Company Overview
Performance Drone Works (PDW) builds technologies for the warfighter, by the warfighter. Born out of the Drone Racing League, our roots are competitive, our mindset is tactical, and our mission is clear: deliver purpose-built unmanned systems to those who serve. We are not here to sell vapor; we build and ship real capabilities for real missions.

Now, we're entering a new phase of growth and are looking for an experienced Senior Technical Writer to lead the development, structure, and lifecycle management of technical documentation supporting complex defense systems. You will shape documentation standards, drive quality, and partner closely with engineering teams to ensure accuracy, usability, and compliance.

This position is ideal for a senior-level technical writer who thrives in structured authoring environments and understands how documentation supports mission-critical systems.

What You'll Do

• Lead the planning, authoring, editing, and maintenance of user manuals, maintenance guides, installation procedures, and system documentation.
• Support documentation across product releases, ensuring accuracy, version control, and traceability.
• Partner closely with engineering teams in Agile environments to gather, validate, and clarify technical information.
• Develop and improve documentation standards, templates, style guides, and terminology consistency.
• Manage documentation workflows using Git-based version control and structured authoring tools.
• Review and process change requests to ensure consistency across deliverables.
• Ensure documentation complies with applicable regulatory and defense standards (MIL STD, ITAR, CUI, etc.).
• Contribute to peer reviews and guide junior writers/illustrators as needed.
• Recommend process improvements, including automation, workflow optimization, and publication standards.
• Maintain document repositories in SharePoint or similar systems to ensure integrity and compliance.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in English, Communications, Journalism, or a related field with at least 10 years of professional technical writing experience; or a Master's degree in a related field with at least 5 years of professional technical writing experience.
• Demonstrated experience developing technical documentation for software, hardware, or mechatronics.
• Experience managing documentation across multiple releases with change control discipline.
• Strong experience in structured authoring environments (AsciiDoc, XML, Markdown, or similar).
• Proficiency with Git-based workflows (GitLab or similar) and modern documentation build systems.
• Experience working directly with engineering teams in Agile environments (JIRA or similar).
• Ability to interpret complex technical information (software, mechanical, or electrical systems).
• Exceptional editing skills with strong attention to clarity, consistency, and accuracy.
• Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance.

Preferred

• Experience supporting DoD, Aerospace, or Defense contractor programs.
• Familiarity with MIL-STD-40051, MIL-STD-38784, or related logistics/documentation standards.
• Experience working with controlled technical data (ITAR, CUI, classified environments).
• Experience with Arbortext Editor or IADS/IETM environments.
• Experience establishing documentation standards or mentoring junior writers.
• Working knowledge of SharePoint document management.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, and move about regularly throughout the day, and lift/carry up to 25 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment, including computers, printers, and phones. Must be physically capable of walking between the office and production areas and attending events or meetings off-site as needed.

Work Environment

This position typically operates in a standard office and manufacturing environment. This role requires the use of standard office equipment and may require occasional local travel to recruiting events. This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments. May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment. This is a fast-paced work environment that requires cross-departmental collaboration and both independent and team-based responsibilities. Standard work hours for this position are 8:30 am-5:00 pm CT with occasional overtime as operational needs demand.

Benefits

PDW values our team, and we offer a compensation package reflective of your experience and capabilities. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company.
• Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation.
• On-site gym at our Huntsville, AL location.
• Employer provided life insurance.
• Robust Employee Assistant Program (EAP).
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.

EEO Statement

PDW is an equal opportunity employer that upholds all federal and state non-discrimination laws. We ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation for employment for all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.