Technical Author – Defence & Engineering Sector
Location - Cheltenham | Hybrid working available
Full-time | Permanent
Salary - £40,000 - £46,000 + excellent benefits
Clearance – MOD DV and eligible for enhanced clearance (eDV)
A growing defence and engineering consultancy is seeking a skilled Technical Author to join its expanding technical documentation team. This is a key opportunity to contribute to the development of high-quality publications that support some of the UK’s most advanced military and commercial systems.
The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in technical writing, excellent communication skills, and a detail-oriented mindset. This role is well suited to someone with a background in engineering, defence, or aerospace who enjoys turning complex technical information into clear, user-friendly content.
Main Responsibilities
As a Technical Author, your duties will include:
- Writing and maintaining technical documentation across military and commercial domains.
- Translating complex engineering data into accessible and compliant documentation.
- Working closely with subject matter experts to gather, clarify, and validate technical content.
- Managing multiple documentation projects within agreed timescales and budgets.
- Creating documentation in line with relevant industry and MoD standards (e.g. S1000D, S2000M).
- Producing and editing illustrations and diagrams using CAD or illustration tools.
- Applying structured authoring techniques and maintaining consistency across documents.
- Liaising with clients to ensure specifications and expectations are met.
About You
We’re looking for a motivated individual with the following:
Essential:
- Proven experience as a Technical Author, ideally in defence, aerospace, or engineering.
- Ability to communicate complex technical content clearly and concisely.
- Strong planning, organisation, and time management skills.
- High attention to detail and a methodical approach.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Visio, Project).
- Experience working with structured authoring and documentation standards.
- Knowledge of MoD documentation formats, including AESPs, APs, and BRs.
- Experience creating or editing technical illustrations and integrating visual content.
Desirable:
- Qualification in Engineering, Technical Communication, or a related field.
- Familiarity with ASD Simplified Technical English (STE).
- Working knowledge of illustration tools (e.g. Adobe Illustrator, IsoDraw, CorelDRAW).
- Understanding of defence environments and technical equipment lifecycle support.
Additional Requirements
- Willingness to undergo Enhanced Developed Vetting (eDV) may be required for certain projects.
- Some travel to client sites may be necessary, depending on project requirements.
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