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.