Technical Publications Writer – Defence Publications

Technical Publications Writer – Defence Publications (DEF(AUST)5629B/C)

Clearance Required:
Current or Reinstatable AGSVA Baseline (minimum), NV-1 preferred.

Work Arrangement:
Primarily WFH / Some Onsite Work (with Design Engineering and Project Staff)

Engagement:
Initially Casual with the opportunity to become Permanent.

We are seeking a skilled and meticulous Technical Publications Writer to join our expanding Technical Publications team, supporting a broad range of defence and aerospace documentation initiatives. This role requires a deep understanding of the DEF(AUST)5629B and 5629C standards, as well as strong technical writing skills to produce clear, accurate, and user-focused technical manuals.

The successful candidate will work closely with illustrators, engineers, and subject matter experts to develop comprehensive and compliant technical publications that meet defence requirements and enhance the end-user's understanding of complex equipment and systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, edit, and maintain technical manuals in accordance with DEF(AUST)5629B/C and project-specific requirements.

• Interpret engineering data, drawings, schematics, and technical inputs to create structured, user-oriented content.

• Work collaboratively with technical illustrators to ensure text and visuals align for clarity and compliance.

• Remotely engage with cross-functional project teams, including engineering, ILS, and client representatives.

• Apply quality assurance processes to ensure consistency, compliance, and version control across documentation.

• Support documentation reviews, updates, and validation processes throughout the product lifecycle.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Demonstrated experience authoring defence-related publications compliant with DEF(AUST)5629B/C standards.

• Proficiency in technical writing and structured authoring tools such as FrameMaker, or XML, or equivalent.

• Solid understanding of engineering principles, technical terminology, and documentation hierarchies.

• Excellent written communication skills with a focus on clarity, accuracy, and compliance.

• Ability to manage documentation tasks independently and as part of a distributed team.

• AGSVA Baseline Security Clearance (essential); NV-1 clearance (highly regarded).

• Familiarity with Australian Defence documentation protocols and ILS integration.

Desirable Skills

• Experience working with content management systems (CMS) and structured data formats (e.g., S1000D, XML).

• Knowledge of Defence capability lifecycle, logistics support documentation, and MIL-STD guidelines.

• Background in technical editing, document formatting, and publication design.

Life at Horsell:

Join a company where people are the priority, supported by an inclusive and supportive culture. At Horsell, we value each team member and offer a variety of benefits to ensure not only professional development but also personal well-being:

• Flexible Work Policy: Various working arrangements to support work-life balance.

• Professional Development: Strong focus on growth with a professional development fund of $5,000.

• Additional Leave Benefits: Enjoy extra privileges such as an additional day off on your birthday.

• Defence Reserves Leave: Paid leave, as applicable.

• Social Events for All Employees: Biennial events for the whole team (including one that is family-friendly) and monthly catered social gatherings by Horsell.

• Annual Performance Bonus: Be eligible for an annual bonus that reflects your alignment with our company values.

• Early Wage Access: Financial flexibility with access to up to 50% of your earned salary before payday, up to a maximum of $1,000 per week, through our Early Wage Access.

• And much more, just ask

Work Environment

This is a primarily Work From Home position, offering autonomy and flexibility, with some client facing time necessary to liaise with Design Engineering and Project Staff to gather information, support technical briefings, validations, and review sessions.

About Us:

Founded in 2007, Horsell is a fully Australian-owned, family and veteran-operated professional services firm. We specialise in making better procurement decisions primarily for the Defence sector, offering specialised training, enlightening consulting services, and innovative technological applications. We engage with both buyers and sellers, ensuring transparency and simplicity in all our processes.