Technical Writer

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionCompany DescriptionThe Center for Applied Linguistics (CAL) is a nonprofit organization promoting access, equity and mutual understanding for linguistically and culturally diverse people around the world.CAL’s mission is to promote learning and cultural understanding by serving as a trusted source for research, resources, and policy analysis. Through its work, CAL seeks solutions to issues involving and culture as they relate to access and equity in education and society around the globe.CAL is located in Washington, D.C. For this position, the employee may choose to work in their combination of in person at the D.C. office in a hoteling capacity, or remotely (up to 100% remote). CAL does not compensate or reimburse candidates for relocation expenses. This position is not open to candidates residing in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Texas, California, or the U.S. Territories.Job DescriptionThe Technical Writer reports to the Test Assembly Manager and works collaboratively across functional teams to ensure that documents produced by CAL program staff meet the highest expectations for clarity and usability. This role is critical in ensuring that CAL’s reports and documentation adhere to the highest standards for usability and WCAG compliance, supporting accessibility and inclusivity. The Technical Writer prepares and reviews materials for high-stakes assessments of English proficiency, writes alt text for graphics for said assessments, and ensures that the alt text meets specialized programmatic requirements. The Technical Writer reviews technical reports and, in collaboration with subject matter experts, writes alt text for images and technical graphs in said reports. This position also supports best practices in documentation management, ensuring that editing workflows and style guides are current and adapted for various formats. Additionally, the Technical Writer coordinates the fact-checking process for custom test content, ensuring accuracy and integrity.Essential DutiesCollaborate with program staff to understand requirements of various projectsProvide support in identifying and troubleshooting technical issues related to document accessibility, and recommend solutions for WCAG compliancePrepare formatting for tables and figures for reports that align to WCAG requirementsContribute to updates and enhancements of CAL’s style guide and documentation standards, integrating best practices and emerging standards for accessibilityContribute to enhancements of computer-based assessment packages for accessibility purposes and participate in quality control reviewsCopyedit high-stakes test materials and technical reports and review for alignment to Chicago Manual of Style as well as in-house style guides and other conventionsDraft and review alt text for assessment graphicsDraft and review alt text for statistical graphs and figures within reportsPrepare audio recording scripts in alignment with style guide and other conventionsPrepare and review procedural documentsCoordinate fact checking of assessment materialsQualificationsThe Technical Writer must have:A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in technical writing, English, communications, or other relevant fieldAt least two years of experience as a proven technical writer in the context of technical, educational, or accessibility-focused documentationExperience with WCAG and other accessibility guidelinesAn ideal candidate for the Technical Writer position also has:Experience with standardized educational assessmentsExperience with individuals with low-incidence disabilities, such as deaf/hard of hearing and/or blind/low vision populationsFamiliarity with statistical or psychometric reportingKnowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesThe Technical Writer must be able to:Work independently with minimal support/supervisionWork collaboratively across functional teamsAdapt to competing and changing prioritiesPrioritize tasks appropriately, meet deadlines, and work well within a teamExercise independent judgment using trustworthy resources to obtain resultsClosely attend to details without losing sight of the bigger pictureEffectively coordinate work in a remote environmentExpertise with the Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Acrobat ProfessionalThe ideal candidate for the Technical Writer role has:Strong oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills, with demonstrated skill as an editor and proofreaderExcellent organization, planning, and time management skillsAnalytical and problem-solving skillsDeep understanding of the Chicago Manual of Style and internal style guides and the and ability to apply them consistently in documentsFamiliarity with accessibility software/tools and augmentative and alternative communication devicesPHYSICAL DEMANDSThe physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to effectively communicate. The employee may be required to sit or stand in a stationary position for more than 50% of the time. This position constantly operates a computer and other office productivity equipment. CAL adheres to ADA compliance and guidelines as a common practice.Additional InformationMinimum Compensation: $59,500This job description summarizes the main duties of the job. It neither prescribes nor restricts the exact tasks that may be assigned to carry out these duties. This document should not be construed in any way to represent a contract of employment. Management reserves the right to review and revise this document at any time.AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT STATEMENTThe Center for Applied Linguistics (CAL) provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to , , , , , , , , , or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, CAL complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.CAL expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on , , , , , or expression, , , genetic information, , or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of CAL employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge. #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2025-09-25