Technical Writer - Senior or Principal Level (2026-130) (WA, Kirkland)

Astronics Advanced Electronic Systems (AES) is seeking a Senior or Principal Level Technical Writer to join our Engineering Services Team in Redmond, WA. This is a hybrid/on-site position offering the flexibility to work from home two or three days per week.

If you are passionate about making an impact with a forward-thinking company that stays at the forefront of the latest technologies in the aircraft industry-and has been recognized as one of Washington's Best Places to Work for 16 consecutive years - please read on!

Candidates local to the greater Seattle/Kirkland, WA area are highly desired. Relocation support is not available for this position.

Astronics AES is an industry leading manufacturer of aircraft electrical power systems, including power generation and distribution. Our markets include commercial transport aircraft such as Boeing and Airbus, business aircraft, rotorcraft, and military platforms. We are the world's leading manufacturer of in-seat power systems for laptops and other electronic devices with the EmPower product line. We are also the world's leading innovator of electronic circuit breakers and power distribution systems for business aircraft with the CorePower product line.

JOB SUMMARY

The Technical Writer works in the Engineering Services department to support all product lines at Astronics AES. The Technical Communications team transforms complex technical concepts into clear, concise, and accurate content for the intended audience in the required format. We write Component Maintenance Manuals (CMMs), Service Bulletins (SBs), Service Information Letters (SILs), user manuals, and other customer-facing documents to support new and sustaining products.

KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Write and edit technical content in Simplified Technical English (STE) for hardware and software products.

• Research and translate technical information into content for nontechnical and technical users.

• Use and enforce established standards for documentation, including internal department guidelines and customer/compliance requirements.

• Produce deliverables that conform to established standards for documentation.

• Review work of others for completeness, accuracy, and adherence to established standards.

• Self-directed and capable of managing projects with little oversight; recognizes when to proactively engage support to ensure accuracy and quality.

• Conduct interviews with various subject matter experts (SMEs) to gather content for deliverables.

• Actively participate in staff meetings and in internal department initiatives.

• Provide direction to more junior team members or coordinate the work of others (Principal level).

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Technical Communications, Human-Centered Design Engineering, English, or similar

Experience:

• Senior Technical Writer: Demonstrates competency. Typically, 5+ years of direct experience in the duties, responsibilities, and skills associated with this role.
• Principal Technical Writer: Demonstrates high aptitude. Typically, 12+ years of direct experience in the duties, responsibilities, competencies and skills associated with this role.

Competencies:

• Technical Learning: Picks up on technical things quickly, can learn new skills and knowledge; is good at learning new industry, company, product, or technical knowledge.
• Communicating with Management and Peers: Has excellent written and oral communication skills. Has well-developed interpersonal skills for collaborating with the team and other internal customers. Has a strong focus on customer satisfaction.
• Attention to Detail: Is careful about technical accuracy and thorough in completing work tasks according to department guidelines. Can balance a high level of attention to detail with high productivity.
• Perseverance: Can maintain the energy and drive needed to complete multiple projects with different priorities, on schedule.
• Dealing with Ambiguity: Can effectively cope with change; can shift gears comfortably; can decide and act without having the total picture; isn't upset when things are up in the air; doesn't have to finish things before moving on; can comfortably handle risk and uncertainty.
• Time Management: Able to work independently and as part of a team. Exercises good judgement regarding when to seek guidance or input from peers or manager.

Technical Skills:

• Experience writing content that complies with ATA100, iSpec2200, or S1000D specifications for an Aerospace company a plus
• Knowledge of markup languages, such as DITA, HTML, or CSS are a plus
• Microsoft Office suite software
• Desktop publishing software (Adobe FrameMaker)
• Graphics software (Adobe Creative Cloud), a plus

EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

• This position may involve access to items subject to U.S. export-control laws. Employment is contingent upon the employee's authorization to access such items under applicable law. The company does not guarantee, and is under no obligation to seek, such authorization.
• Employment contingent on passing a pre-employment background check and drug test including screening for cannabis use.

COMPENSATION

• Sr. Technical Writer: $79,293 - $118,940 per year (midpoint: $99,117)
• Principal Technical Writer: $102,687 - $154,031 per year (midpoint: $128,359)
• Eligible for quarterly profit-sharing bonus.

Actual salary offered depends on factors such as experience in comparable roles, skill set, training, education, certifications, other qualifications, market conditions, and business needs. It is uncommon for candidates to be hired at or near the top of the range.

COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS PACKAGE

• Health & Well-Being: Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance, plus optional critical illness, accident, and hospital indemnity coverage.
• Financial Security: 401(k) plan and Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
• Work-Life Balance: Flexible hybrid work arrangements for eligible positions, Employee Assistance Program, and a culture that supports balance.
• Generous PTO: Starting at 120 hours annually, plus 12 paid holidays per year.