Performance Drone Works (PDW) builds technologies for the warfighter, by the warfighter. Born out of the Drone Racing League, our roots are competitive, our mindset is tactical, and our mission is clear: deliver purpose-built unmanned systems to those who serve. We are not here to sell vapor; we build and ship real capabilities for real missions. 

Now, we’re entering a new phase of growth and are looking for a Technical Writer to support the development and maintenance of technical documentation for complex defense systems. In this role, you will work closely with engineering teams to create clear, accurate, and structured documentation that supports system operation, maintenance, and deployment.

This position is ideal for a detail-oriented writer comfortable working in structured authoring environments and contributing to documentation efforts in a collaborative engineering setting.

What You’ll Do

• Create, edit, and maintain user manuals, maintenance guides, installation procedures, and system documentation.
• Support documentation updates across product releases, ensuring accuracy and version consistency.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to gather and clarify technical information.
• Follow established documentation standards, templates, and style guides.
• Manage documentation using structured authoring tools (AsciiDoc, XML, Markdown).
• Use Git-based version control systems (GitLab) to track changes and maintain content.
• Review and implement documentation change requests.
• Ensure documentation meets applicable regulatory and defense standards (ITAR, CUI, etc.).
• Participate in peer reviews to improve clarity, usability, and technical accuracy.
• Maintain documents within SharePoint or similar repositories.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in English, Communications, Journalism, or a related field with at least 3–5 years of professional technical writing experience; or a Master’s degree with at least 2–3 years of experience.
• Experience developing technical documentation for software, hardware, or mechanical/electrical systems.
• Familiarity with structured authoring environments (AsciiDoc, XML, Markdown).
• Experience using Git-based workflows (GitLab).
• Experience working with engineering teams to gather technical information.
• Ability to understand and document complex technical concepts.
• Strong editing and organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance.

Preferred

• Experience working with controlled technical data (ITAR, CUI).
• Exposure to tools such as Arbortext or IETM environments.
• Familiarity with SharePoint or document management systems.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, and move about regularly throughout the day, and lift/carry up to 25 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment, including computers, printers, and phones. Must be physically capable of walking between the office and production areas and attending events or meetings off-site as needed.

Work Environment

This position typically operates in a standard office and manufacturing environment. This role requires the use of standard office equipment and may require occasional local travel to recruiting events. This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments. May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment. This is a fast-paced work environment that requires cross-departmental collaboration and both independent and team-based responsibilities. Standard work hours for this position are 8:30 am-5:00 pm CT with occasional overtime as operational needs demand.

Benefits

PDW values our team, and we offer a compensation package reflective of your experience and capabilities. Benefits include: 

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company.
• Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation.
• On-site gym at our Huntsville, AL location.
• Employer provided life insurance.
• Robust Employee Assistant Program (EAP).
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options. 

EEO Statement

PDW is an equal opportunity employer that upholds all federal and state non-discrimination laws. We ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation for employment for all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.