At a Glance
- Tasks: Create and refine technical documentation for high-tech products while collaborating with diverse teams.
- Company: Join Oxford Instruments, a leader in micro- and nano-structure engineering solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible work options, private healthcare, 25 days leave, and a subsidised on-site canteen.
- Other info: Opportunity to work on exciting projects in the semiconductor and scientific sectors.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team that values innovation and customer satisfaction in cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Requires a technical authoring qualification and three years of relevant experience.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are excited to announce an exciting job opportunity at our Severn Beach, Bristol location! We are looking for a talented Technical Author to join our dynamic and rapidly growing global team on a permanent basis. In this role, you will create and refine highly technical documentation, prioritising content validation and review. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional written and verbal communication abilities and will collaborate effectively across various departments with diverse stakeholders. At Oxford Instruments, our commitment to our customers is paramount; this position is pivotal in ensuring the quality, accuracy, and timeliness needed to exceed our customers’ expectations.
What You'll Do:
- Publish customer manuals:Use Framemaker and Flare to create bespoke customer manuals from existing content.
- Develop new documentation:Develop clear and concise documentation that meets users' needs.
- Validate technical details:Work with engineers and technicians to ensure the technical detail is correct through observation and hands‑on testing in our lab.
- Review written content:Peer review content written by other members of the team.
- Edit CAD drawings:Edit drawings and other images used throughout the documentation.
- Answer product queries:Work with engineers and managers to answer technical queries.
- Follow internal procedures:Apply our document version control and branching procedures.
- Health and Safety:Uphold the company's health, safety, and environmental protection standards.
- Be part of Team:Be part of a collaborative and inclusive work environment that values and empowers you to contribute your unique skills and perspectives.
- Minimum three days per week on site.
What We Offer:
- Comprehensive authoring experience:Be part of the lifecycle of documentation from analysis to publishing, using modern authoring tools.
- Wide range of projects:Work on a range of short and long term projects for different user groups.
- Collaborative environment:Join a team of supportive professionals focused on our customers' experience.
- Professional growth:Opportunities for continuous learning and development.
What We're Looking For:
- Technical Expertise:Proficiency in various software development tools and languages.
- Problem‑Solving Skills:Ability to tackle challenges head‑on and find effective solutions.
- Customer Focus:Strong written and verbal communication skills to understand and meet customer needs.
- Self management:Ability to deliver content that meets agreed objectives and timescales.
- Team Player:Collaborative mindset to work effectively with colleagues and clients.
- Commitment to Safety:Adherence to health, safety, and environmental protection standards.
Education/Experience:
- A recognised technical authoring qualification (ISTC, NVQ, Diploma, etc.) or equivalent experience.
- Minimum experience of two years in a technical author role.
- Proficiency in using authoring software such as MadCap Flare, Framemaker or Adobe Acrobat.
- Experience in writing procedures for the operation and maintenance of technical products.
- Ideally, experience in either the semiconductor, electro‑mechanical or scientific sector.
- Experience in CAD software is helpful.
- Experience in using Simplified Technical English is helpful.
- Familiarity with document control procedures such as branching, versioning and document review cycles.
Professional Skills/ Abilities:
- Excellent technical writing and proofreading skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Good technical comprehension with the ability to summarise technical detail appropriately for the audience.
- Meticulous attention to detail.
- Good time management skills with the ability to deliver to deadlines.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Personal Qualities:
- A professional manner in all interactions.
- A problem‑solving approach, remaining calm under pressure.
- A good team player able to demonstrate emotional intelligence and an appreciation of other people's skills, abilities and experiences.
- Able and willing to travel on occasions.
At Oxford Instruments Plasma Technology, we provide tools for the engineering of micro‑ and nano‑structures, with customers using our process solutions to research and produce materials and semiconductors vital for everything from medical devices and diagnostics, to electric cars and quantum computers.
In addition to a competitive starting salary, Oxford Instruments also offers structured career development opportunities, an excellent work‑life balance, private healthcare, a share incentive plan, 25 days annual leave, half‑days on Fridays, a defined contribution Group Personal Pension Plan, the convenience of our on‑site canteen, where you can enjoy fresh, hot meals prepared daily with a varied menu and delicious options to choose from all at subsidised prices, and a flexible benefits package that you can tailor to your requirements.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and would ask you to get in touch if you are concerned about any barriers you feel you may be facing in your application process with us.
Technical Author in Bristol employer: Oxford Instruments
Oxford Instruments is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Severn Beach, Bristol, where collaboration and innovation thrive. With a strong focus on professional growth, employees benefit from ongoing training and development opportunities, alongside a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package that supports work-life balance. Join us to be part of a team that values your contributions and fosters a culture of excellence in technical documentation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Technical Author in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific technical writing tools mentioned in the job description, such as MadCap Flare and Adobe Acrobat. Having hands-on experience with these applications will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your readiness to hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with professionals in the semiconductor or scientific instrumentation fields through networking events or online forums. This can provide you with insights into industry standards and expectations, which will be invaluable during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in detail, especially any projects where you collaborated with engineers or subject-matter experts. Highlighting your ability to communicate complex information clearly will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in technical writing and documentation. Being knowledgeable about current best practices will show your commitment to continuous improvement and your passion for the field.
We think you need these skills to ace Technical Author in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your technical writing experience and relevant qualifications. Emphasise your familiarity with tools like MadCap Flare and Adobe Acrobat, as well as any experience in the semiconductor or scientific sectors.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention specific examples of your previous work that demonstrate your ability to produce clear and concise technical documentation, and how you have collaborated with engineers and other stakeholders.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Include a section in your application that outlines your technical skills, such as document review cycles, proofreading, and your understanding of manufacturing processes. This will help the hiring team see your fit for the role at a glance.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents to ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors. Attention to detail is crucial for a Technical Author, so make sure your application reflects this quality.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford Instruments
✨Showcase Your Technical Writing Skills
Prepare samples of your previous technical documentation to demonstrate your writing capabilities. Be ready to discuss the processes you followed to create these documents and how you ensured accuracy and clarity.
✨Understand the Company’s Products
Research Oxford Instruments and their product range thoroughly. Familiarise yourself with their technology and applications, as this will help you answer questions more effectively and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Prepare for Collaboration Questions
Since the role involves working with various stakeholders, be prepared to discuss your experience collaborating with engineers, sales, and marketing teams. Think of specific examples where you successfully navigated cross-departmental communication.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
Highlight your proofreading and peer review skills during the interview. You might be asked to critique a piece of technical writing, so practice identifying errors and suggesting improvements to showcase your meticulous nature.