Technical Writer

Zocalo Recruiting

Technical Writer

Ann Arbor, MI
Full Time
Paid
  • Responsibilities

    Overview

    We are seeking an experienced Technical Writer to support our Hardware Engineering team in developing precise, standards-compliant documentation for complex physical products and systems. This role will work closely with electrical, mechanical, firmware, and manufacturing engineers to produce clear, structured, and technically accurate documentation across the product lifecycle.

    The ideal candidate understands engineering terminology, technical drawings, specifications, and manufacturing processes, and can translate highly technical content into organized, production-ready documentation.


    Responsibilities

    • Develop and maintain hardware documentation including:

      • Product specifications

      • Engineering design documentation

      • Test procedures and validation reports

      • Assembly instructions

      • Manufacturing work instructions

      • Compliance and regulatory documentation (UL, CE, FCC, etc.)

      • User manuals and service manuals

    • Interpret engineering drawings, schematics, PCB layouts, and mechanical CAD files

    • Collaborate with EE, ME, firmware, and manufacturing teams to gather technical content

    • Ensure documentation aligns with quality management systems (ISO 9001, ISO 13485, etc.)

    • Manage document version control and revision tracking

    • Support regulatory submissions and audits

    • Create diagrams, flowcharts, and technical illustrations as needed

    • Standardize documentation templates and formatting


    Qualifications

    • 3+ years of technical writing experience in hardware, electronics, or manufacturing environments

    • Experience documenting electrical, mechanical, or embedded systems

    • Ability to read and interpret:

      • Schematics

      • PCB layouts

      • Mechanical drawings

      • Bills of Materials (BOMs)

    • Familiarity with PLM systems and document control processes

    • Experience with documentation tools (Confluence, SharePoint, MadCap Flare, FrameMaker, etc.)

    • Strong understanding of version control and revision control processes

    • Excellent written communication and organizational skills


    Preferred Qualifications

    • Background in electrical or mechanical engineering

    • Experience supporting regulatory or compliance documentation

    • Familiarity with embedded firmware documentation

    • Experience in high-reliability industries (medical device, aerospace, industrial systems)

    • Knowledge of IPC standards or other hardware manufacturing standards


    Key Traits

    • Detail-oriented and process-driven

    • Comfortable working with engineers in highly technical environments

    • Able to manage evolving documentation in fast-paced hardware development cycles

    • Strong ownership mindset