Become a Technical Writer-Editor with the Bureau of Reclamation
Are you a wordsmith with an eye for engineering and environmental science? The Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) is seeking a dedicated Technical Writer-Editor to join our Technical Service Center in Lakewood, Colorado. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the nation’s infrastructure and water management mission.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will perform high-level editing and strategic planning for complex documents. Key duties include:
- Collaborating with subject matter experts to translate technical data into accessible formats.
- Drafting and editing NEPA documents, including EIS and EA reports.
- Managing production schedules for standard operating procedures and engineering reports.
- Advising teams on best practices for technical communication.
Core Competencies Comparison
| Competency | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Management | Leading document lifecycles and meeting deadlines. |
| Technical Competence | Understanding engineering/environmental concepts. |
| Teamwork | Negotiating complex reviews with diverse stakeholders. |
| Writing | Producing clear, compliant, and accurate reports. |
Requirements
Qualified applicants must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-09 level. You must show a clear ability to analyze technical information and present it in a readable format for various audiences, including Congress and the public.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $83,265 to $108,251. Beyond the salary, federal employees enjoy comprehensive benefits, including:
- Health insurance plans.
- Flexible retirement options.
- Generous leave policies.
- Professional growth opportunities.
Application Tips
- Focus on the Resume: Keep it to exactly two pages. Ensure it highlights your technical writing specific tasks.
- Documentation is Key: If you are a current federal employee, ensure your SF-50 clearly shows your grade and tenure.
- Assessments: Do not skip the online assessment; it is a critical part of your evaluation.
If you are ready to use your editing skills to make a real-world difference, apply to join the Bureau of Reclamation today. Help us deliver clarity in a complex world.
Why This Technical Writer-Editor Job Matters
Shape the future of water management through clear, impactful communication as a Technical Writer-Editor for the Bureau of Reclamation.
Technical Writer-Editor Job Overview
The Bureau of Reclamation, within the Department of the Interior, is seeking a skilled Technical Writer-Editor to join the Technical Service Center in Lakewood, Colorado. In this role, you will be instrumental in bridging the gap between complex engineering, environmental, and scientific data and the public stakeholders who rely on it. You will lead documentation projects, collaborate with interdisciplinary experts, and ensure that vital agency reports, safety plans, and environmental assessments meet the highest standards of clarity, consistency, and regulatory compliance.
Requirements for Technical Writer-Editor
- Must be a U.S. citizen or national.
- Completion of a 1-year probationary or 2-year trial period.
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Must pass an E-Verify employment check.
- Must possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-09 level.
- Must meet specific education requirements: 15 semester hours in an appropriate scientific, technical, or social science field, including one course above the introductory level.
- Submission of a concise 2-page resume adhering to strict formatting guidelines.
Preferred Qualifications for Technical Writer-Editor
- Proven experience developing and publishing NEPA documents, such as Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) and Environmental Assessments (EA).
- Background in drafting Safety of Dams reports, feasibility studies, and emergency action plans.
- Demonstrated ability to lead interdisciplinary teams in the creation and scheduling of technical publications.
- Experience in conflict resolution and negotiation regarding sensitive or controversial technical information.
- Advanced education, including a Ph.D. or 3 full years of graduate-level coursework.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal employee health and insurance programs
- ✓Retirement planning and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) options
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Telework opportunities with supervisory approval
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives based on agency needs
💡 How to Apply Technical Writer-Editor Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Technical Writer-Editor Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement details carefully.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed 2 pages, clearly detailing hours worked per week and relevant grade-level experience.
- Complete all required online questionnaires and assessments.
- Gather supporting documents, including your most recent performance appraisal and applicable SF-50 forms.
- Submit your complete application via the USAJOBS portal before the closing date.
- Monitor your status through your USAJOBS account.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly mentions full-time or part-time status with the number of hours worked per week to avoid disqualification.
- Do not include personal photographs or Adobe portfolio files.
- Ensure your font size is at least 10-point with 0.5-inch margins for your resume.
- If claiming education, submit official transcripts if requested; unofficial copies are acceptable for initial application.
- Double-check your SF-50 forms to ensure they show tenure and grade level correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit a resume longer than 2 pages?
No, the announcement strictly mandates a 2-page limit. Any resume exceeding this length will not be considered.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework with supervisor approval.
What happens if I don't submit my performance appraisal?
Failure to submit required documents, including your most recent performance appraisal, will result in an incomplete application and loss of consideration.
Is relocation covered?
*A: Relocation incentives are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and are not guaranteed.*
Can I update my application?
*A: Yes, you can edit your application via the USAJOBS portal until the announcement closing date.*
Job from Bureau Of Reclamation
The Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Reclamation serves the American public by managing, developing, and protecting water resources. We pride ourselves on sound environmental and economic stewardship. Working at our Technical Service Center means you are at the heart of the technical decisions that shape the future of the Western United States.