Staff Technical Writer, X-BAT

X-BAT Technical Writer / Editor

Shield AI is seeking an experienced X-BAT Technical Writer / Editor to support the development, integration, and operational lifecycle of next-generation autonomous aircraft systems. This role is embedded within engineering and flight test environments and is responsible for translating highly complex aerospace, avionics, and autonomy systems into precise, usable technical documentation.
The ideal candidate brings deep experience working alongside engineers and subject matter experts to produce clear, structured documentation across all program phases, from early design and system development through initial flight testing and sustained mission operations. This position will directly support X-BAT platform documentation, including operator manuals, maintenance procedures, system descriptions, and mission support materials.
What you'll do:
Partner closely with aerospace, software, and systems engineers to develop accurate, high-fidelity technical documentation for advanced aircraft systems
Manage multiple documentation efforts across development, flight test, and operational phases in a fast-paced, iterative environment
Translate complex engineering concepts, including avionics, autonomy, and mission systems, into clear, structured guidance for operators, maintainers, and internal teams
Review and edit technical content for accuracy, clarity, consistency, and adherence to program standards
Research and interpret engineering artifacts such as system architectures, design specifications, interface control documents, software descriptions, and test procedures
Aggregate and synthesize technical inputs from cross-functional teams, including flight test, hardware, software, and operations
Develop and maintain technical manuals, including aircraft operating procedures, maintenance manuals, troubleshooting guides, training materials, and mission documentation
Ensure documentation aligns with evolving system configurations and reflects real-world operational use cases
Create and manage supporting visuals such as system diagrams, workflows, illustrations, and annotated graphics
Identify gaps, inconsistencies, or missing technical information and proactively drive resolution with engineering teams
Maintain documentation standards, templates, and version control across a growing body of technical publications
Support rapid updates to documentation based on flight test results, system changes, and operational feedback
Fulfill additional responsibilities as required in support of X-BAT program objectives
Required qualifications:
5–10 years of technical writing/editing experience, preferably in aerospace, defense, or complex engineering systems
Bachelor's degree in Technical Writing, Engineering, English, or a related field
Demonstrated experience developing and maintaining technical manuals for aircraft systems, complex hardware/software platforms, or similar domains
Proven ability to work directly with engineers and subject matter experts to extract and document technical information
Strong understanding of structured documentation practices and lifecycle documentation management
Exceptional writing, editing, and organizational skills with a focus on clarity and precision
Ability to distill complex system behavior into concise, user-focused documentation
High attention to detail and consistency across large documentation sets
Self-sufficient, proactive work style with the ability to manage competing priorities under tight timelines
Ability to identify missing, ambiguous, or conflicting technical information
Comfortable working across distributed teams and time zones
Interest in working in a fast-moving, non-traditional defense and aerospace environment
Preferred qualifications:
Experience with advanced aircraft systems, UAVs, autonomy, avionics, or mission systems documentation
Familiarity with DoD technical manual standards and specifications (e.g., MIL-STD, S1000D, or service-specific formats)
Experience using MadCap Flare or similar structured authoring tools
Background in flight test documentation or operational procedure development
Defense industry or aerospace program experience
Master's degree in English, Technical Communication, or a related discipline
Project management experience supporting complex technical programs
Experience leveraging AI-assisted tools to enhance documentation workflows
$110,000 - $160,000 a year
Full-time regular employee offer package: Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
Temporary employee offer package: Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.