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Senior Technical Writer

Onto Innovation
Full-time
On-site
United States
✍️ Copywriting & Content Writing

πŸ“Œ Core Information

πŸ”Ή Job Title: Senior Technical Writer

πŸ”Ή Company: Onto Innovation

πŸ”Ή Location: United States

πŸ”Ή Job Type: On-site

πŸ”Ή Category: ✍️ Copywriting & Content Writing

πŸ”Ή Date Posted: April 2, 2025

πŸ”Ή Experience Level: 5-10 years

πŸ”Ή Remote Status: Not specified

πŸ“Œ Essential Job Details

πŸš€ Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

  • Establishing Best Known Methods (BKMs) and processes for end-users.
  • Capturing, transcribing, and drafting end-user documentation for optomechanical setups and tests.
  • Collaborating with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to capture and draft content.
  • Reporting on key deliverables and statuses for projects and programs.

ASSUMPTION: This role will likely involve frequent collaboration in a high-tech environment where precision and in-depth knowledge of semiconductor manufacturing are critical. Adaptability and excellent communication abilities are presumably crucial to manage the dynamic work context effectively.

πŸ“‹ Key Responsibilities

βœ… Establish Best Known Methods (BKMs) and processes for end-users.

βœ… Capture, transcribe, and draft end-user documentation covering component-level and system-level optomechanical setups, tests, and assembly work.

βœ… Report on key deliverables and statuses for projects and programs.

βœ… Balance multiple, simultaneous, high-priority projects.

βœ… Work with the Production Manufacturing group and work schedules/shifts.

βœ… Collaborate with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to capture and draft content.

βœ… Work in clean room attire/PPE and clean room environments standing for extended periods of time.

ASSUMPTION: The responsibilities imply a strong focus on technical documentation and collaboration across departments. The role may require a willingness to work in specialized environments like clean rooms, necessitating understanding of clean room protocols.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Not specified

Experience: 5-10 years of relevant experience

Required Skills:

  • MS Office (Word/PowerPoint/Excel/Visio)
  • Adobe FrameMaker
  • Photoshop (or similar photo editing software)
  • Strong verbal and written communication with audiences of varying technical backgrounds and expertise
  • Meticulous attention to detail in documentation development
  • Experience in all phases of documentation development from initial concept to final publication
  • Self-guided research skills
  • Experience with writing user guide documentation for optomechanical and/or similar systems

Preferred Skills:

  • Familiarity with SolidWorks models (and/or similar CAD and EPDM software)
  • SolidWorks Composer
  • XML editing/formatting for forms and web publication standards
  • MS Visual Basic for creating scripts and macros (MS Word/Excel)
  • Experience creating documentation with Manufacturing Execution System (MES) software for high volume production environments

ASSUMPTION: Strong emphasis on technical writing skills suggests a focus on precise communication and adaptability in technological documentation settings. Familiarity with advanced tools implies the need for candidates with technical proficiency and problem-solving abilities.

πŸ’° Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Not specified, but industry standards suggest competitive salaries aligned with senior roles in technical writing for semiconductor companies.

Benefits:

  • Health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • PTO (Paid Time Off)
  • 401K plan with employer match
  • Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP)
  • Health & wellness initiatives

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, on-site

ASSUMPTION: Compensation likely competitive, typical of senior technical roles in the semiconductor industry, with generous benefits that may aid in employee retention and satisfaction.

πŸ“Œ Applicant Insights

πŸ” Company Context

Industry: Semiconductor Manufacturing - A critical sector focusing on high-tech electronics and technological advancements.

Company Size: 1,001-5,000 employees, indicating a midsize company with significant global reach and resources.

Founded: 2019, denoting a relatively young, dynamic organization in the industry.

Company Description:

  • Leader in process control within the semiconductor industry
  • Known for a comprehensive technology portfolio including 3D metrology and factory analytics
  • Supports customer innovation and efficiency

Company Specialties:

  • Process control technology
  • Advanced semiconductor packaging
  • Factory analytics systems

Company Website: http://www.ontoinnovation.com

ASSUMPTION: The company’s focus on cutting-edge technology and innovation suggests a culture of progressivity and rapid adaptation, which may present numerous learning and growth opportunities for employees.

πŸ“Š Role Analysis

Career Level: Senior level, requiring substantial experience and expertise in technical writing and documentation within high-tech settings.

Reporting Structure: Likely reports directly to the department lead or manager responsible for documentation and product support.

Work Arrangement: On-site, with possible interactions across various functions requiring presence at designated locations.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Exposure to advanced semiconductor technologies
  • Potential to work cross-departmentally with subject matter experts
  • Opportunities for leadership in documentation projects or process improvement

ASSUMPTION: The position offers professional growth and the chance to contribute to innovations in the semiconductor industry, requiring proactive learning and collaboration.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: Likely a modern setup catering to technical functions and equipped with current technologies and equipment.

Office Location(s): Various U.S. locations, with prominent offices in Wilmington, Massachusetts; and Milpitas, California among others, providing geographical flexibility.

Geographic Context:

  • Located within key technology hubs across the United States
  • Offers a diverse range of location-specific benefits and cultural experiences
  • Access to major transport links and facilities suited to a global business environment

Work Schedule: Standard work hours with potential needs for flexibility to meet project timelines and collaboration across time zones.

ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be prepared to work in an advanced technology-driven environment offering innovation and inclusion, enhanced by strategic geographic locations.

πŸ’Ό Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

  • Submit application through company website or job portal
  • Initial phone interview to discuss experience and qualifications
  • Technical assessment to evaluate writing and documentation skills
  • On-site or video interview with the team and hiring manager
  • Final decision and offer

Key Assessment Areas:

  • Technical writing proficiency
  • Problem-solving and adaptability
  • Collaboration and communication skills

Application Tips:

  • Highlight relevant experience with technical writing in semiconductor or similar industries
  • Showcase any work samples or portfolios related to technical documentation
  • Prepare for scenario-based questions assessing technical problem-solving

ATS Keywords: Technical writer, documentation development, semiconductor, optomechanical, MS Office, Adobe FrameMaker, SolidWorks

ASSUMPTION: The application and interview process are structured to assess both technical expertise and cultural fit, with significant emphasis on demonstrated past work in documentation.

πŸ› οΈ Tools & Technologies

  • MS Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Visio)
  • Adobe FrameMaker
  • Photoshop or similar photo editing software
  • SolidWorks and SolidWorks Composer
  • XML editing tools
  • MS Visual Basic for script and macro creation
  • Manufacturing Execution System (MES) software

ASSUMPTION: Proficiency in using specific software is critical, indicating a technical depth in handling documentation tasks related to sophisticated optomechanical systems and processes.

πŸ‘” Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

  • Innovation and excellence in technology and processes
  • Commitment to quality and customer satisfaction
  • Collaboration across diverse teams and locations

Work Style:

  • Detail-oriented and precise
  • Proactive and self-directed in handling tasks
  • Collaborative in a cross-functional team environment

Self-Assessment Questions:

  • How do you adapt documentation strategies to evolving technologies?
  • What is your approach to maintaining accuracy under tight deadlines?
  • How do you handle technical feedback from Subject Matter Experts?

ASSUMPTION: The role necessitates a cultural alignment with the company’s forward-thinking and quality-driven ethos. Candidates should perceive themselves as integral participants in technological advancements.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

  • Navigating complex technical information and terminology
  • Maintaining precision and consistency across diverse documentation projects
  • Collaborating with subject matter experts from varied disciplines
  • Adhering to strict publishing timelines while ensuring readiness and accuracy

ASSUMPTION: Challenges primarily revolve around complexity and accuracy in documentation within a high-tech, rapidly changing environment.

πŸ“ˆ Similar Roles Comparison

  • Roles at other semiconductor companies might have similar requirements but vary in their technical focus areas and tool usage.
  • Positions in other high-tech industries may offer less emphasis on clean room documentation requirements.
  • Similar roles often require the same level of technical expertise and attention to detail, along with a strong collaborative spirit.

ASSUMPTION: This role stands out due to its specific focus on semiconductor processes, requiring expertise in optomechanical systems and clean room conditions.

πŸ“ Sample Projects

  • Developing comprehensive user manuals for optomechanical systems used in semiconductor manufacturing.
  • Creating step-by-step documentation for equipment setup and testing to optimize manufacturing processes.
  • Collaborating with teams to produce documentation aligning with new product rollouts or updates.

ASSUMPTION: Typical projects will likely involve substantial cross-functional teamwork and meticulous documentation efforts, enhancing operational efficiencies.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

  • Can you describe a typical day for someone in this role?
  • How do you support ongoing professional development for your technical writers?
  • What are the success metrics for this position?
  • How does this role contribute to the company’s strategic objectives?
  • Can you elaborate on the team dynamics and work environment in the documentation department?

ASSUMPTION: The questions suggest a pragmatic approach to understanding the role’s contribution to corporate goals, team integration, and personal growth opportunities.

πŸ“Œ Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

  • Submit your application through the company's careers page
  • Prepare and upload a portfolio showcasing previous technical writing projects
  • Tailor your resume to highlight relevant skills and experiences
  • Highlight any experience with semiconductor industry practices
  • Follow up with a thank you email after interviews

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.