ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Principal Technical Writer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

STR

Principal Technical Staff

Arlington, VA · On-site

The Principal Technical Staff role focuses on leading the development of advanced algorithm and ... flow, proposal writing • Excellent interpersonal and communications skills • Successful ...

AT&T

Principal Technical Consulting Eng

Chantilly, VA · Hybrid

$143K - $215K/yr

Our Principal Technical Consultant earns between $174,100 - $261,100. Not to mention all the other amazing rewards that working at AT&T offers. Individual starting salary within this range may depend ...

BLN24

Scientific Technical Writer/Editor

Mclean, VA · On-site

Job Title:  Scientific Technical Writer/Editor Position Overview: BLN24 has an exciting ... Conduct interviews with researchers, Principal Investigators, program managers, and stakeholders to ...

BLN24

Scientific Technical Writer/Editor

Mclean, VA · On-site

Scientific Technical Writer/Editor Position Overview: BLN24 has an exciting opportunity for a ... Conduct interviews with researchers, Principal Investigators, program managers, and stakeholders to ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPrincipal Technical Writer JobsPrincipal Technical Writer Jobs in Virginia

Principal Technical Writer information

See Virginia salary details

$10.9K

$184.9K

How much do principal technical writer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal technical writer in Virginia is $183,769.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $183,400.00 and $183,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal technical writer?

A Principal Technical Writer is a senior-level professional responsible for creating, managing, and improving technical documentation. They collaborate with engineers, product managers, and other stakeholders to develop user manuals, API documentation, and knowledge bases. In addition to writing, they often set documentation standards, mentor junior writers, and contribute to content strategy. Their work ensures technical information is clear, concise, and accessible for both internal and external users.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal technical writer?

To thrive as a Principal Technical Writer, you typically need advanced expertise in technical communication, a strong grasp of complex technical concepts, and a bachelor's degree in English, Communications, Computer Science, or a related field. Proficiency with industry-standard authoring tools (such as Adobe FrameMaker, MadCap Flare, and XML-based content management systems) and relevant certifications (like Certified Professional Technical Communicator) is highly beneficial. Leadership ability, collaboration, and excellent project management and communication skills are key soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for producing clear, accurate documentation while guiding teams and collaborating across departments to meet organizational goals.

What are the main challenges principal technical writers face, and how are they typically addressed within organizations?

Principal Technical Writers often face the challenge of communicating highly complex technical information to diverse audiences, including both technical and non-technical stakeholders. To address this, they collaborate closely with engineers, subject matter experts, and product managers to ensure accuracy and clarity in documentation. Organizations usually support Principal Technical Writers with access to advanced tools, ongoing training, and opportunities to participate in product development cycles early on. Effective teamwork, regular knowledge sharing, and established review processes also help in overcoming these unique challenges and ensuring documentation meets high standards. If you enjoy solving complex communication problems in a dynamic, team-oriented environment, this role offers both significant impact and professional satisfaction.

Are principal technical writers still in demand?

Principal technical writers are still in demand as organizations require clear, comprehensive documentation for complex products and systems. They often need strong writing skills, technical knowledge, and experience with tools like XML, Markdown, or content management systems, making their expertise valuable across industries such as technology, engineering, and healthcare.

What are popular job titles related to Principal Technical Writer jobs in Virginia?

For Principal Technical Writer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Principal Technical Writer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Principal Technical Writer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Principal Technical Writer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Principal Technical Writer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Principal Technical Writer jobs in VA?

For Principal Technical Writer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Principal Technical Writer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Technical Writer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $183,769 per year, or $88.4 per hour.

Principal Technical Staff

STR

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Systemstechnologyresearch is a growing technology company specializing in advanced research and development for defense, intelligence, and national security. The Principal Technical Staff role focuses on leading the development of advanced algorithm and software solutions for the Intelligence Community and Department of Defense, managing all program phases from marketing to contract execution.
Responsibilities:
• Leading continued development of relevant technology products
• Leading a portfolio of research and development programs
• Delivering advanced algorithm and software solutions for the Intelligence Community and Department of Defense
• Managing all program phases, from marketing and business capture to all phases of contract execution
• Working closely with Government customers, support organizations, and transition partners to ensure the success of each program
Qualifications:
Required:
• Active Top Secret Clearance Required with SCI eligibility, for which U.S citizenship is needed by the U.S government
• MS with at least 15 years of experience, and/or PhD with at least 8 years of experience (or equivalent experience) in a scientific field such as applied math, physics, electrical engineering, computer science, or data science
• Experience in managing large technical projects, Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) definition, and resource management
• Experience spanning all project phases, from ideation to technology research and product development
• Experience in new business development, initial outreach, capture flow, proposal writing
• Excellent interpersonal and communications skills
• Successful experience in leading and managing multi-discipline teams and mentoring less experienced staff
• Strong presentation and organizational skills
Preferred:
• Experience working with Space Systems and intelligence products
• Working knowledge of DoD and IC missions and acquisition processes
• Technical breadth and a demonstrated ability to simultaneously manage multiple, technically diverse programs and teams
• Entrepreneurial spirit and eager to engage in technical marketing and business development
Company:
STR is built on people & technology platforms tackling tough problems in cybersecurity, distributed sensing & artificial. Founded in 2010, the company is headquartered in Woburn, USA, with a team of 501-1000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

Apply