Technical Writer Job at Potomac Institute for Policy Studies in Arlington

Overview

About the Potomac Institute for Policy Studies

The Potomac Institute for Policy Studies is an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit Science & Technology (S&T) policy research institute located in Arlington, VA. The Institute identifies and leads discussions on key S&T and national security issues facing our society, providing an academic forum for the study of related policy issues. We convene experts to tackle science, technology, and national security challenges and translate research into actionable policy at the intersection of business and government.

Technical Writer Role

As a part-time Technical Writer, you will turn complex research and data into clear, compelling documentation. You will work closely with researchers, engineers, and program managers to produce briefs, proposals, reports, and client deliverables that uphold our rigorous standards.

We are seeking a part-time Technical Writer to collaborate with management, subject matter experts, and staff including researchers, engineers/scientists and program managers to develop and enhance documentation including technical briefs, internal documents, proposals and client deliverables. The Technical Writer must be able to create clear, concise, and accurate documentation that effectively communicates complex technical information. The Technical Writer will play an important role in the Institute’s success.

Technical Writer must be able to cultivate good relationships with management, subject matter experts, and staff including researchers, engineers/scientists and program managers. Interviews and discussions with these staff are key to gathering information and understanding what they are trying to accomplish. What story do they want to tell? Why is it important? Who is their audience?

Job Description

• The Technical Writer will collaborate with the Institute staff and consultants to develop and enhance documentation for internal and external clients that is clear, concise, and accurate.
• The role will both compose new documentation and edit the work of others, ensuring high standards for readability, grammar, and context.
• The key to success in this role is the ability to synthesize complex data into easy-to-follow high quality proposals, reports, and documents.
• Ensure clarity, accuracy, and consistency across all documents.
• Coordinate the display of graphics and tables.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher, preferably in S&T field.
• 5 years of technical writing experience in S&T services.
• Proven track record working with PHD-level researchers and engineers.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Strong organizational skills and ability to work in a fast-paced team environment and juggle conflicting priorities

Citizenship & Security Clearance

Must be a US citizen and be eligible for a security clearance.

Compensation & Work Location

• Consultant rate: $40–$75 per hour
• Employee salary: $60,000–$100,000 (pro-rated for part-time)
• Preferred residence in the Washington, DC metro area
• Flexible remote work options
• Prefer residence in Washington, DC Metro area

Equal Opportunity

Potomac Institute for Policy Studies is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

• All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.