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Associate Technical Writer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

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... technical writing (experience drafting SOPs, protocols, reports, etc) Education Required BS Degree in Biological Sciences, Chemical/Biomedical Engineering, Life Sciences or related discipline.

Technical Designer III

Seattle, WA · On-site

$39.34 - $55.07/hr

Associate degree in Computer Aided Drafting & Design. * 4+ years of experience in aerospace ... Strong written and verbal communication skills. Preferred Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in ...

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Associate Technical Writer information

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$15

$44

$75

How much do associate technical writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate technical writer in Seattle, WA is $44.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.84 and $53.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate technical writer?

Associate Technical Writers are entry-level professionals who create and edit technical documentation, such as user manuals, how-to guides, and product instructions. They work closely with subject matter experts to understand complex information and present it in a clear, accessible way for end users. Typically, they are responsible for drafting, formatting, and updating documentation under the guidance of senior technical writers. This role often serves as a starting point for a career in technical writing, offering opportunities to gain experience with various writing tools and documentation standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate technical writer?

To thrive as an Associate Technical Writer, you need strong writing, editing, and research skills, typically supported by a degree in English, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with documentation tools like Microsoft Word, Adobe FrameMaker, and content management systems is often required, along with a basic understanding of technical concepts. Attention to detail, adaptability, and clear communication are standout soft skills for collaborating with subject matter experts and delivering user-friendly documentation. These skills ensure technical information is accurately conveyed, easily understood, and effectively supports end users and organizational goals.

What are some common challenges faced by associate technical writers in their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Associate Technical Writers often face challenges such as understanding complex technical concepts, adapting to different documentation tools, and aligning with the preferred style guidelines of their organization. To overcome these, it's helpful to proactively seek clarification from subject matter experts, participate in internal training on tools and processes, and regularly review existing documentation for style reference. Building strong communication skills and being open to feedback are key to growing and succeeding in this role.

What is the difference between Associate Technical Writer vs Technical Writer?

AspectAssociate Technical WriterTechnical Writer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in English, Communications, or related field; some certificationsBachelor's degree often required; certifications like STC are a plus
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, collaborative teams, often in tech or engineering firmsMore experienced, independent projects, broader industry applications
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in tech, software, engineering sectors for entry rolesUsed across industries for professional documentation and manuals

The Associate Technical Writer typically holds an entry-level position with foundational skills, focusing on learning and supporting documentation tasks. The Technical Writer is more experienced, handling complex documentation independently. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and are common in tech and engineering industries, but the Technical Writer usually has more responsibility and expertise.

Are associate technical writers still in demand?

Associate technical writers are still in demand as companies seek clear, concise documentation for products and services. The role often requires skills in writing, editing, and familiarity with tools like Markdown or XML, and demand is expected to grow with increasing technology adoption across industries.

How do I become an associate technical writer with no experience?

To become an associate technical writer with no experience, focus on developing strong writing and communication skills, often through completing a relevant degree or certification in technical communication, English, or a related field. Gaining familiarity with tools like Markdown, HTML, or content management systems, and creating a portfolio of sample documentation can also improve your chances of entry-level employment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Technical Writer jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Technical Writer jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Associate Technical Writer jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Associate Technical Writer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Technical Writer job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,180 per year, or $44.3 per hour.

Mfg Operations Associate Director - Biologics, Drug Substance

Vertex Pharmaceuticals

Seattle, WA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Vertex Pharmaceuticals rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Job Description
General Summary:
The Associate Director, Technical Services is accountable for the technical execution of biologics drug substance manufacturing at external manufacturing partners.
This role is responsible for ensuring processes are executed as intended and delivering reliable supply. The Associate Director serves as the technical leader for manufacturing execution, driving performance, standardization, and rapid issue resolution across programs and CDMOs.
The Associate Director, Technical Services role is a key member of Vertex's External Manufacturing Organization (ExM), providing support, strategic insights and enterprise thinking to the Biopharmaceutical Sciences and Manufacturing Operations organization (BSMO).
The Associate Director, Technical Services is accountable for the technical execution of biologics drug substance manufacturing at external manufacturing partners. This role is responsible for ensuring processes are executed as intended and delivering reliable supply. The Associate Director serves as the technical leader for manufacturing execution, driving performance, standardization, and rapid issue resolution across programs and CDMOs.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Provide technical leadership for drug substance manufacturing campaigns at external partners, serving as the senior technical decision-maker during active operations to ensure consistent, compliant, on-time execution and strong campaign readiness
  • Oversee triage, resolution, and documentation of execution-related deviations, ensuring rapid containment to protect product quality and supply
  • Lead cross-functional coordination across MSAT, Quality, and manufacturing teams, escalating and framing complex issues as needed
  • Own process operability and execution robustness at the manufacturing site, including batch record clarity and usability
  • Drive improvements in yield, cycle time, right-first-time performance, and overall manufacturing reliability
  • Lead campaign readiness, including implementation of CAPAs and process updates
  • Serve as the senior technical interface during manufacturing operations, providing day-to-day guidance and driving communication, responsiveness, and accountability at the site level during campaigns
  • Oversee real-time monitoring of batch and campaign performance, identifying risks, process drift, or execution gaps and drive timely technical interventions as needed to maintain schedule adherence, quality, and supply reliability
  • Escalate complex or non-routine issues requiring deeper process understanding to MSAT, ensuring clear technical framing and efficient handoff
  • Oversee implementation of approved process and operational changes, ensuring effective execution and expected performance outcomes
  • Build and strengthen Technical Services capability within biologics, including defining ways of working and developing technical staff
  • Drive a culture of accountability, urgency, and operational rigor

Knowledge and Skills:
  • Deep understanding of biologics drug substance manufacturing processes and cGMP operations
  • Strong experience with real-time manufacturing support, including batch execution, deviation management, and troubleshooting
  • Ability to identify and resolve technical issues quickly in a live manufacturing environment
  • Working knowledge of batch records, investigations, change control, and quality systems
  • Proven ability to operate effectively in a matrixed environment, coordinating across MSAT, Quality, and manufacturing teams
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to drive clear decisions under time-sensitive conditions
  • Demonstrated focus on execution, accountability, and operational rigor
  • Strong technical background in aseptic manufacturing operations.
  • Solid project management skills and experience managing complex projects.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills: ability to expresses oneself clearly and concisely, by adjusting style, language and/or terminology as appropriate for the audience.
  • Strong leadership and an innate ability to collaborate and build relationships is critical.
  • Ability to work calmly and make sound decisions in a fast-moving environment of uncertainty and change
  • Flexibility to work shift hours required to cover critical process steps
  • Ability to travel, national and international, up to 30%

Education and Experience:
  • BS/BA degree in Biological Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or related discipline; advanced degree preferred
  • Requires 10+ years of experience in biologics manufacturing, MSAT, or external manufacturing
  • Demonstrated experience supporting or leading manufacturing execution at a site or external partner
  • Experience with deviation management, investigations, and real-time technical troubleshooting in a cGMP environment
  • Prior experience working with external manufacturing partners strongly preferred
  • Previous leadership experience, including leading technical teams or cross-functional initiatives, preferred
  • Requires progressive experience in a management/leadership role in the biotechnology/ pharmaceutical industry with a focus on external manufacturing and commercial operations
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders and present insights to all levels of senior stakeholders
  • Demonstrated continuous improvement mindset, driving efficiencies, process improvements across diverse initiative

Pay Range:
$160,000 - $240,000
Disclosure Statement:
The range provided is based on what we believe is a reasonable estimate for the base salary pay range for this job at the time of posting. This role is eligible for an annual bonus and annual equity awards. Some roles may also be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirements. Actual base salary pay will be based on a number of factors, including skills, competencies, experience, and other job-related factors permitted by law.
At Vertex, our Total Rewards offerings also include inclusive market-leading benefits to meet our employees wherever they are in their career, financial, family and wellbeing journey while providing flexibility and resources to support their growth and aspirations. From medical, dental and vision benefits to generous paid time off (including a week-long company shutdown in the Summer and the Winter), educational assistance programs including student loan repayment, a generous commuting subsidy, matching charitable donations, 401(k) and so much more.
Flex Designation:
Hybrid-Eligible Or On-Site Eligible
Flex Eligibility Status:
In this Hybrid-Eligible role, you can choose to be designated as:
1. Hybrid: work remotely up to two days per week; or select
2. On-Site: work five days per week on-site with ad hoc flexibility.
Note: The Flex status for this position is subject to Vertex's Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time.
#LI-Hybrid
Company Information
Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation.
Vertex is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vertex is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. Vertex will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.
Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should make a request to the recruiter or hiring manager, or contact Talent Acquisition at ApplicationAssistance@vrtx.com

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