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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 ...

SAIC

Senior Technical Writer

Hampton, VA

$80K - $120K/yr

This position requires a demonstrated/thorough understanding and application of technical writing, and configuration management principals and processes. The successful candidate must be effective at ...

SAIC

Senior Technical Writer

Hampton, VA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

This position requires a demonstrated/thorough understanding and application of technical writing, and configuration management principals and processes. The successful candidate must be effective at ...

TTC, Inc.

Senior Technical Writer

Hampton, VA

This position requires a demonstrated/thorough understanding and application of technical writing, and configuration management principals and processes. The successful candidate must be effective at ...

SAIC

Senior Technical Writer

Hampton, VA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

This position requires a demonstrated/thorough understanding and application of technical writing, and configuration management principals and processes. The successful candidate must be effective at ...

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 ...

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 ...

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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 Aug 11, 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.

How much does a principal technical writer make?

A principal technical writer typically earns between $90,000 and $140,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often have advanced skills in documentation tools and may lead teams or projects, which can influence compensation.
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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 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $183,769 per year, or $88.4 per hour.

Technical Writers

Leader Communications Inc

Alexandria, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

LCI is seeking dedicated Technical Writers to support a long-term contract with the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). These roles are critical in maintaining the hardware and software infrastructure that powers the USPTO’s mission. We are looking for professionals who combine technical troubleshooting expertise with elite customer service skills. Roles range from Senior-level Technical Writers to management-level Principal Technical Writers.

Individual must be able to attain and maintain a valid U.S. Government Public Trust security clearance.

Duties & Responsibilities

  • Assist with developing comprehensive documentation that is in alignment with organizational standards.
  • Translate complex information into simple, polished, and engaging content.
  • Produce user-friendly content that meets the needs of the target audience, turning insights into language that sets users up for success.
  • Evaluate current content and develop innovative approaches for improvement.
  • Research, outline, write and edit new and existing content, working with various departments to understand project requirements.
  • Independently gather information from subject matter experts to develop, organize and write procedure manuals, technical specifications and document processes.
  • Oversee assignments, assist in technical/administrative planning, and perform in a supervisory or management capacity as required.


This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by this employee. He or she will be required to follow any other instructions and to perform any other duties requested by his or her supervisor

Education & Experience Requirements

  • Possess a bachelor’s degree in Technical Writing, journalism or another relevant technical field.
  • Must have a minimum of 4 years industry experience as an effective technical writer.
  • Education Equivalency: As a substitute, 4 years’ industry experience as an effective technical writer. Education Equivalency experience is in addition to the minimum experience.
  • Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and time management skills.
  • Experience working with subject matter experts (SMEs) and businesses leads to understand their requirements and presenting creative concepts.
  • Highly organized with ability to successfully run multiple projects simultaneously and work independently with little supervision.
  • Ability to successfully obtain and maintain a Tier 1 Investigation (Low Risk).


Skill & Certification Requirements

  • Possess excellent communication skills (e.g., excellent written and verbal communication skills acquired via customer service work).
  • Personnel must possess administrative and project management skills.
  • Microsoft Project Professional
  • Microsoft SharePoint
  • Ability to establish professional rapport, active listening, and the ability to explain complex technical matters to non-
  • technical personnel.
  • Ability to produce accurate, clear, and straightforward documentation.
  • Skilled in Microsoft Project Professional.
  • Skilled in Microsoft SharePoint for version control and repository management.
  • Ability to uphold USPTO interests and influence others by making valid, relevant points in a professional manner.
  • Must be able to see things from the customer’s perspective and maintain a high standard of customer service.
  • LCI is an Equal Opportunity Employer/ Veterans/ Disabled

If you are an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and need a reasonable accommodation to apply to a position please contact HR by phone at (405) 622-2200 or by email at hr@lcibest.com.