1

Contract Technical Writer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Technical Writer

Washington, DC ยท On-site +1

$50 - $80/hr

As a Contract Technical Writer, you will report to a Solutions Architect on Virtru's Standards team. Virtru actively contributes to the development of international data-centric security standards ...

New

Technical Writer

Fort George G Meade, MD ยท On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Minimum of eight (8) years of experience as a Technical Writer in programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity. * Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline from an accredited ...

New

The County would prefer a resource that is local to the DC Metro Area. 4) Contract staff will ... Demonstrated experience and knowledge in technical document writing projects, 5+ Years.

Technical Writer

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Technical Writer Gromelski and Associates, Inc. (GAI) partners with prime contractors to provide ... Contract Terms: 40 hours/week, onsite Start Date: Immediate Salary Range: $70,000 - $90,000 ...

... and contracts of similar scope โ€ข Demonstratable understanding of basic concepts (to include basic grammar concepts), responsible for writing technical copy for various types of documents โ€ข ...

At least 5 years of technical writing experience preparing software and engineering-related documents, reports, user manuals, installation guides, training materials, Contract Data Requirements List ...

At least 5 years of technical writing experience preparing software and engineering-related documents, reports, user manuals, installation guides, training materials, Contract Data Requirements List ...

Eight (8) years of experience as a Technical Writer in programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity is required. Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline from an accredited ...

Technical Writer Location: 445 12th Street SW, Washington, D.C. Duration: 12 Months General ... developing the contract deliverables in accordance with the contract. The contractor shall ...

Technical Writer

Fort George G Meade, MD ยท On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

Eight (8) years of experience as a Technical Writer in programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity is required. Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline from an accredited ...

Technical Writer

Annapolis Junction, MD ยท On-site

$80K - $135K/yr

Six (6) years of experience in Technical Writing or projects and contracts of similar scope Skills: * Demonstratable understanding of basic concepts (to include basic grammar concepts), responsible ...

Ensure documentation accuracy, consistency, and compliance with contract and organizational ... Technical Writing or Technical Communication certification * ITIL Foundation * CompTIA Security+ CE ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Contract Technical Writer information

See Washington salary details

$112.7K

$124.6K

$134.2K

How much do contract technical writer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract technical writer in Washington is $124,585.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,900.00 and $130,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract technical writer?

Contract technical writers are professionals hired on a temporary or project basis to create, edit, and manage technical documentation for organizations. They often work independently or through staffing agencies, producing materials such as user manuals, guides, software documentation, and standard operating procedures. Unlike full-time employees, contract technical writers typically work for a set period or until the completion of specific projects, offering flexibility for both the writer and the employer. Their expertise helps businesses clearly communicate complex information to users, clients, or internal teams.

What does a contract technical writer do?

Contract technical writers compose journal articles, instruction manuals, textbooks, and other documents with complex, technical information that needs to be explained in an easy-to-understand way. Unlike staff writers, contract technical writers are freelancers that work on a short- or long-term contract basis. In this role, you determine the scope of each writing project from your client, then collaborate with product designers and developers to understand what you are writing about. Once you gather the required information, you write and organize the document based on your target audience, adding photographs, drawings, charts, and diagrams as needed. Your documents are proofread and edited before they are published.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract technical writer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Technical Writer, you need strong writing, editing, and research skills, usually supported by a relevant degree or experience in technical communication. Familiarity with documentation tools like Microsoft Word, Adobe FrameMaker, MadCap Flare, and content management systems is typically required. Excellent attention to detail, time management, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly are vital soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure the creation of accurate, user-friendly documentation that meets project deadlines and client expectations.

What are some common challenges faced by contract technical writers, and how can they be managed?

Contract technical writers often encounter challenges such as quickly adapting to new industries or technologies, working with limited project background, and managing communication with multiple stakeholders. To navigate these, it's important to ask targeted questions early, establish clear project expectations, and utilize available documentation and subject matter experts efficiently. Strong organizational skills and proactive communication are essential to delivering high-quality work within tight deadlines commonly found in contract roles.

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

AspectContract Technical WriterTechnical Writer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in English, Communications, or related field; certifications like STC are a plusSame as Contract Technical Writer, often with similar certifications
Work EnvironmentProject-based, often remote or on-site for specific clientsFull-time employment, may be remote or in-office
Employer & IndustryFreelance or consulting firms, tech companies, manufacturingCorporations, publishers, tech firms, government agencies
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched for project-based or freelance rolesTypically sought as full-time positions

The main difference between a Contract Technical Writer and a Technical Writer lies in employment type and work setup. Contract Technical Writers work on a project basis, often freelance or temporary, while Technical Writers are usually full-time employees. Both roles require similar skills, credentials, and industry experience, but their work arrangements differ significantly.

Are contract technical writers still in demand?

Contract technical writers are still in demand as companies seek skilled professionals to create clear documentation for products and services. The role often requires proficiency with tools like Markdown or XML and the ability to adapt to various industries, making it a flexible and valuable position in technical communication.

What are the most commonly searched types of Technical Writer jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Technical Writer jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Technical Writer jobs in Washington?

For Contract Technical Writer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Contract Technical Writer jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Contract Technical Writer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Technical Writer jobs in WA?

For Contract Technical Writer jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Contract Technical Writer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,585 per year, or $59.9 per hour.

Technical Writer

Virtru

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site, Remote

$50 - $80/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Compensation: $50-80/hour

Hours: 10-20 hours/week

Team & Position Details:ย 

As a Contract Technical Writer, you will report to a Solutions Architect on Virtru's Standards team. Virtru actively contributes to the development of international data-centric security standards across US, NATO, and FVEY bodies. This role accelerates our standards document production and ensures Virtru's contributions meet the rigor and formatting conventions of multinational standards organizations. Your writing will directly shape how allied nations protect and share sensitive data.

As a Technical Writer, your responsibilities will include:

  • Draft and refine technical prose for international cryptographic key management and data security standards, ensuring compliance with NATO and allied publication conventions (e.g., ADatP, ACP formatting).
  • Document interoperability test plans, results, and technical findings for bilateral partner engagements and multinational exercises.
  • Prepare technical white papers, position papers, and briefing materials supporting government research partnerships and standards body meetings.
  • Translate engineering feedback and subject matter expert input into publication-ready, standards-quality language.
  • Support preparation of written contributions for recurring virtual and in-person standards writing sessions.
  • Prepare test scenario descriptions and technical reports for multinational interoperability exercises.
  • Draft response documents for standards community review and comment periods.
  • Assist in producing reference documents that unify Virtru's technical positions across multiple standards engagement tracks into a coherent narrative.

Skills that will help you thrive in this role:

  • Demonstrated experience writing or editing technical standards, specifications, or policy documents for government or multinational organizations.
  • Strong command of precise, unambiguous technical prose - the kind found in RFCs, STANAGs, or MIL-STDs.
  • Ability to work from engineering notes, meeting recordings, and SME interviews to produce publication-ready drafts.

Nice to haves:

  • Experience with NATO standards processes (STANAGs, ADatPs, Allied publications) or Five Eyes/CCEB publication conventions (ACPs).
  • Background in cybersecurity, zero trust architecture, or cross-domain solutions.
  • Familiarity with cryptographic concepts, key management, and/or data security at a conceptual level.
  • Active or recently held US security clearance (Secret or above).

Virtruvian qualities that will set you up for success:

  • Thinking outside of the box to respectfully challenge your teammates and managers in the pursuit of excellence
  • Strong sense of urgency with an action-oriented mindset
  • Able to collaborate and adapt to shifting priorities as business needs evolve
  • Comfortable with asynchronous communication including slack, email, zoom, etc.

Perks & Benefits:

At Virtru, we believe people do their best work when their wellbeing is put first. This is why we make your wellbeing our priority with a thoughtful and holistic program that encompasses Occupational, Mental, Social, Physical, and Environmental Wellness by offering benefits such as...

  • A Flexible PTO policy - we strongly encourage you to take time off (in addition to 14 holidays) to ensure that you are getting the proper time needed to unplug and recharge.ย 
  • A $1,500 annual Learning & Development Stipend focused on providing you the resources to continually learn and professionally grow.
  • Frequent company-sponsored team celebrations that provide ample opportunities to connect with teammates and be social!
  • Access to an Employee Assistance Program
  • Access to Headspace, a mental health app tailored to your specific needs.
  • A flat 3% contribution to your retirement account
  • A high degree of flexibility - Have an appointment, errand, or family emergency to take care of? Hop to it! We give you the time and space to take care of you and your own first.

In addition to wellbeing, Virtru places a strong emphasis on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Our DB&I Council is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace and making the psychological safety of each and every one of our teammates a top priority.ย 

Additional perks include:ย 

  • Competitive compensation
  • Generous parental, medical, and bereavement policies
  • Uncapped commissions for Sales roles
  • 401K contribution and stock options
  • Full medical, dental, and vision benefits
  • New Hire Swag and IT Welcome boxes
  • Structured semi-annual 360 performance reviews

Virtru is committed to building an inclusive environment for people of all backgrounds and everyone is encouraged to apply. Virtru is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, disability, national origin, protected veteran status, age, or any other status protected by applicable national, federal, state, or local law.