City of Austin
Technical Writer
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About This Position
Job Description:
Technical Writer
Purpose:
Under general supervision performs tasks in developing, writing and editing user manuals for equipment or software, system documentation, technical proposals, training manuals, or other technical materials.
Duties, Functions and Responsibilities:
Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.
- Consults with subject matter experts to establish technical specifications and to determine subject material to be developed for publication.
- Interviews personnel and read journals and other materials to become familiar with product technologies and production methods.
- Observes production and developmental activities and other material to become familiar with product technologies and production methods.
- Organizes material and completes writing assignments according to standards regarding order, clarity, conciseness, style and terminology.
- Studies drawings, specifications, mockups, and product samples to integrate and delineate technology, operating procedure and production sequence.
- Edits, standardizes, or makes changes to material prepared.
- Selects photographs, drawings, sketches, diagrams and charts to illustrate written materials.
- Arranges for typing, duplication and distribution of material.
- Maintains records and files of work and revisions.
Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:
None.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.
- Knowledge of English grammar and punctuation.
- Knowledge of methods of literary research.
- Knowledge of printing and production of technical materials.
- Skill in oral and written communication.
- Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
- Skill in using computers and related software applications.
- Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
- Skill in planning and organizing.
- Ability to interpret blueprints, technical reports and specifications.
- Ability to proofread or edit technical materials.
- Ability to organize materials into formats suitable for printing.
- Ability to maintain good working relationships with other city employees and the public.
Minimum Qualifications:
Graduation with a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in a field related to Journalism, Communications, Business Administration, plus one (1) year experience in developing, writing or editing materials of a technical nature.
Experience may substitute for education up to the maximum of four (4) years.
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Licenses and Certifications Required:
None
Preferred Qualifications
- Advanced knowledge of English grammar and punctuation.
- Experience working in a public safety environment.
- Experience juggling multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.
- Organizational skills.
- Skills related to customer service.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
- Advanced skills using Microsoft Office applications.
- Ability to travel to more than one work location.
Notes to Candidate:
The Technical Writer works in the Office of the Fire Chief drafting correspondence, reports, marketing materials, and other documents. The primary contribution of this position is the ability to quickly compose written materials and knowledge about grammar and punctuation when editing other people’s writing.
Salary Range: $57,970.00 - $70,720.00 annually
Days and Hours: Monday – Friday. 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Hours may vary due to operational needs.
Telework: In-Office position with NO telework options.
When completing the City of Austin employment application:
A detailed, complete City of Austin application is required for the position to help us better evaluate your qualifications. For each of your positions, please describe your specific experience as it relates to the minimum and preferred qualifications. Please be thorough in completing the employment application and list all experience that is relevant to this position, including your supervisory and/or leadership experience, if applicable. This is the criteria that will be used to select candidates for interview, and the starting salary will be based on overall relevant experience.
This position may allow for a resume or cover letter to be included but relevant entries on your employment application will primarily be considered for interview qualification and compensation purposes.
If you are selected to interview:
If you are identified as a top candidate, verification of your education, to include High School graduation or GED, undergraduate and/or graduate degrees, will be required.
Benefits:
Working with the City of Austin provides a number of health and welfare benefits such as low-cost medical, dental, vision, paid leave time, a highly competitive retirement plan, training opportunities, and more. Please click HERE for more information.
Additional Information:
Assessment(s) may be administered as part of this recruitment.
Important Note to Applicants:
Please be aware that the Job Posting Close Date reflects the final day to apply, but the posting will close at 11:59 PM the day before the date listed. All application steps, including attachments and submission, must be fully completed before that time.
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JOIN THE CITY OF AUSTIN TEAM
At the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer—we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. As we strive to fulfill our commitment as public servants, it is important that we ground our efforts in a set of guiding principles – Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity – that anchor our delivery of services that significantly impact the lives of Austinites. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward-thinking organization that values every employee.
What Makes the City of Austin Special?
- Make a Difference: Join a team driving meaningful change in one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation.
- Value and Innovation: Work in an environment where employees are valued, and innovation thrives.
- Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.
- Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.
- Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.
- Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support.
- Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.
- Modern Workspaces: Work in innovative and sustainable environments that foster collaboration and inspiration.
By joining us, you become part of a community that values its people and is committed to making Austin the most thriving and resilient city in the country.
EEO Statement for City of Austin:
The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual's AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk.
City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call (512) 974-3210 or Texas Relay by dialing 7-1-1.
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