Pos Technical Writer

• X years equivalent work experience
• Degree in the field of English, Communications, or Journalism.

Preferred Experience:

• X years equivalent work experience.
• A background in technology is desirable.
• Hands-on technical writing and editing experience, with specific experience in documenting information technology software and systems.
• Knowledge of information gathering, planning, and organizing methods and principles.
• Experience with desktop publishing tools, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Publisher.
• Strong understanding of document formatting and presentation techniques.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
• Superior attention to detail.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills, with a focus on rapport-building, listening, and interviewing skills.
• Ability to conduct research into a wide range of computing issues as required.
• Ability to absorb and retain information quickly, specifically complex technical information.
• Ability to analyze target audience and to present ideas in user-friendly language.
• Good understanding of the organization's goals and objectives.
• Highly self-motivated and directed.
• Proven analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to effectively prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment.
• Exceptional customer service orientation.
• Experience working in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.
• Excellent writing and grammatical skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to present complex data in clear, concise text.
• Ability to meet deadlines and to work independently.
• Ability to edit and proofread work of colleagues.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.

Responsibilities:

Strategy & Planning

• Liaise with department heads and end users to define and identify business procedures and establish documentation needs for hardware and software.
• Analyze IT project requirements to determine types of documents needed.
• Collaborate with systems and development staff to collect and interpret technical information.
• Liaise with printers and graphic artists to plan layout, graphical elements, and formatting of documents. Ensure final documents are usable and of high quality.

Acquisition & Deployment

• Research, evaluate, and recommend new documentation tools and methods in support of documentation improvement efforts.

Operational Management

• Develop documentation project plans and timelines.
• Plan, design, research, write, and edit a range of documents, including user guides and manuals, technical specifications, training materials, user policies, and proposals, for both print and online media.
• Edit written documentation of development and other IT staff to create unified and consistent support documents.
• Establish, communicate, and maintain documentation standards, and provide training where required.
• Maintain currency and accuracy of all documentation.
• Write and edit technical documents including reference manuals and product manuals.
• Write and edit procedural documentation such as user guides and manuals.
• Determine the type of publication that will best serve the project requirements.
• Meet with engineers, programmers, and project managers to learn about specific products or processes.
• Research product samples to fully understand product.
• Assess the audience needs for whom the technical and procedural documentation is intended; adjust tone and technical terms used to meet those needs and to ensure understanding.
• Plan writing processes and set timelines and deadlines.
• Create or work with graphic designers to create diagrams, charts, and other visual aids to assist readers in understanding a product or process.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.