What are the responsibilities and job description for the Technical Writer - CONTRACT POSITION position at Southwest Airlines Pilots Association?
POSITION SUMMARY
The Technical Writer is a contract role responsible for designing, writing, editing, and managing documentation across multiple functional areas, including policies and procedures, governance documents, operational playbooks, technical guides, and executive communications. This position works cross-functionally with leadership, subject matter experts (SMEs), and administrative teams to ensure documentation is clear, accurate, consistent, and aligned with SWAPA’s strategic objectives, compliance requirements, and operational practices.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Technical Documentation & Content Development
- Develop, write, edit, and maintain designated policies, standard operating procedures, project charters, solution concepts and solution requirements documentation for SWAPA departments and committees
- Translate complex business, departmental, and operational concepts into clear, concise, and user-friendly written materials, complete with appropriate diagramming for data flows, workflows, cross-functional workflows, and procedural processes
- Create and maintain templates, style guides, and documentation standards to ensure consistency
- Partner with SMEs to gather, validate, and document processes, workflows, and requirements
- Manage version control and document lifecycle processes within document management systems
- Ensure alignment between documentation and current practices, identifying and closing gaps where necessary
- Assist PMO Manager in designing and maintaining a library of governance, procedural, and technical content
Process Mapping & Organizational Alignment
- Document and map business processes, workflows, and service delivery models (e.g., RACI/SRACI frameworks, service catalogs)
- Support organizational initiatives by documenting new programs, systems, and operational changes
- Collaborate with leadership to align documentation with SWAPA’s strategic plan and operational priorities
- Assist in the development of training materials, onboarding documentation, and internal knowledge base resources
- Analyze existing documentation to recommend improvements for clarity, usability, and efficiency
Governance, Compliance & Quality Assurance
- Work with relevant departments to ensure documentation meets applicable legal, regulatory, and contractual requirements
- Support audit readiness by maintaining accurate and complete documentation records
- Establish documentation review cycles and quality assurance processes
- Maintain confidentiality and integrity of sensitive organizational information
- Assist in documenting controls, compliance procedures, and internal governance frameworks
Cross-Functional Collaboration & Communication
- Facilitate meetings and working sessions with stakeholders to define documentation requirements
- Provide editorial review and quality control for materials prepared by other departments
- Support communication efforts by drafting internal announcements, guides, and reference materials
- Coordinate with Administration and EPMO functions on documentation tied to projects and initiatives
EDUCATION & QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in Technical Writing, English, Communications, Business Administration, or related field is preferred but not required
- Five (5) to eight (8) years of applicable experience in technical writing, business writing, or documentation management
- Demonstrated experience writing policies, procedures, and business process documentation in a professional environment
- Experience working with executive leadership and subject matter experts
- Exceptional writing, editing, and proofreading skills with strong attention to detail
- Ability to synthesize complex information into clear, structured, and concise documentation
- Experience with document management systems (e.g., SharePoint, OneDrive) and version control practices
- Master-level skills in Microsoft 365 Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, SharePoint)
- Expert-level diagramming skills with Microsoft Visio (preferred tool) or other compatible tools
- Familiarity with process mapping tools, frameworks (e.g., RACI), and workflow documentation practices
- Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple deliverables simultaneously
- Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities and deadlines
- Discretion and professionalism when handling confidential or sensitive information
- Experience in labor organizations, professional associations, or regulated environments is a plus