Warfighter Systems - Senior Technical Writer
Job description
About the role
This Senior Technical Writer position is responsible for producing high-fidelity documentation that directly supports warfighters in the deployment and operation of Anduril defense systems. The role owns the end-to-end documentation lifecycle for critical programs, ensuring that complex technical information is translated into clear, actionable procedures for front-line operators. You will act as a primary liaison between deep engineering subject matter experts and the users in the field, safeguarding mission success through precise and reliable content. The position requires a high degree of ownership over the documentation product quality, reflecting Anduril's world-class standards for government-facing deliverables. You will shape the narrative around how these systems function, ensuring consistency and accuracy across all product lines. This role is integral to the company's Mission Success pillar, supporting not just current initiatives but the long-term operational readiness documented in Programs of Record. You will influence the direction of documentation strategy by defining data requirements and authoring content in standardized military specifications.
Key facts
Location: USA
Engagement: Full-time.
Compensation: $146,000 to $194,000 USD base salary.
Team: Mission Success, a cross-functional group supporting all Anduril products.
Years: 7+ of demonstrated experience.
Degree: Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
Visa: Must be eligible for Secret and higher security clearance (US).
Re
location: Ability to relocate, if not already local, to be onsite in Costa Mesa, CA is required.
What you'll do
Analyze complex engineering documentation and system architectures to extract precise technical details necessary for authoring data requirements for Programs of Record.
Author technical content in Mil-Std-40051-E XML format, demonstrating mastery of structured authoring principles and migrating documentation workflows toward the Rapid Author environment.
Evaluate and prioritize documentation workflows and processes to ensure critical program milestones are met and the overall documentation roadmap is de-risked.
Interpret dense technical schematics, manuals, and specifications to create accurate procedural guides, operator manuals, and task-oriented instructions.
Collaborate directly with engineering and operations stakeholders to gather source material, clarify ambiguities, and validate the technical accuracy of all documentation outputs.
Develop and implement documentation standards and training materials that enable other team members to contribute high-quality content to the product framework.
Communicate documentation risks, schedule impacts, and resource needs clearly to stakeholders, ensuring alignment and timely delivery of contract commitments.
Optimize the user experience of technical documentation by focusing on clarity, precision, and usability for front-line operators in high-stakes environments.
Strengthen the team's content infrastructure by creating reusable content modules and establishing best practices that improve the efficiency of the documentation lifecycle.
Support the transition of new defense systems into production by crafting the operational narratives that define how the system is used in the field.
Maintain rigorous version control and document lineage, ensuring all content changes are traceable and meet strict defense sector compliance requirements.
Apply a structured editing methodology to ruthlessly refine prose for clarity, conciseness, and adherence to strict technical style guides under tight deadlines.
Requirements
7+ years of experience producing XML-based technical documentation, primarily within the defense sector.
Capacity to read and interpret complex engineering documentation is required.
Proven ability to build content against MIL-STD-40051, typically using tools such as RTX Eagle.
Strong written and verbal communication skills focused on technical subject matter.
Ability to work independently while managing competing priorities and strict deadlines with rigorous project management.
A passion for producing precise documentation and optimizing user experience.
Eligibility for Secret and higher security clearance (US) is mandatory.
Willingness to relocate, or already being local, for onsite work in Costa Mesa, CA is required.
Nice to have
Technical writing in defense contexts often involves standards such as S1000D and MIL-STD-40051.
Defense software and hardware documentation relies on precise, unambiguous language and strict review cycles.
Tools like XML authoring environments and content management systems are central to the workflow.
Clear communication with engineering, product, and account teams is essential to meet contract deliverables.
Practical notes
This role may require travel.
The team operates under strict defense and national security constraints.
Typical interview steps
Content hiring usually starts with a writing test or portfolio review. Candidates may be asked to rewrite a passage, outline an article, or draft a landing page. Editing skill is tested as often as original writing. Clear structure and attention to detail matter. Interviewers often assign a timed writing test. Following the brief exactly and editing ruthlessly are the two habits that score highest.
Good to know
Technical writing in defense contexts often involves standards such as S1000D and MIL-STD-40051.
Defense software and hardware documentation relies on precise, unambiguous language and strict review cycles.
Tools like XML authoring environments and content management systems are central to the workflow.
Clear communication with engineering, product, and account teams is essential to meet contract deliverables.
Career growth
Content careers grow from writer to senior writer, editor, and content lead roles. Some people specialize in search, technical writing, or brand voice. Proving measurable impact, such as traffic or conversion lift, drives progression. Content careers reward a visible portfolio and proven business results. Writers who understand their company's product and audience grow fastest.