Senior Software Documentation Specialist

AIR is seeking aSenior Software Documentation Specialist to play a critical leadership role in developing, delivering, and maintaining comprehensive documentation for the FEWS NET Learning and Data Hub, a key component of the Famine Early Warning Systems Network (FEWS NET) project. FEWS NET provides early warning and evidence-based analysis on food insecurity to support global humanitarian response.

This position is responsible for designing and managing a robust documentation ecosystem that supports the usability, transparency, and adoption of FEWS NET's data platforms and tools. The Specialist will lead the creation of accessible, user-centered technical content, coordinate with cross-functional teams, and ensure the long-term sustainability of documentation systems and help platforms.

Success in this role requires advanced technical writing expertise, a deep understanding of data systems and user experience, and the ability to translate complex technical processes into clear, actionable guidance for a variety of audiences.

This position has the flexibility to work remote from anywhere in the United States or from any of AIR'sU.S. office locations. This does not include U.S. territories.

Established in 1946, with headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, AIR is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit institution that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance to solve some of the most urgent challenges in the U.S. and around the world. We advance evidence in the areas of education, health, the workforce, human services, and international development to create a better, more equitable world.

Responsibilities

Documentation Strategy & Development

• Lead the design, development, and maintenance of high-quality documentation for FEWS NET data platforms, including operational procedures, metadata standards, and user guidance.
• Establish and enforce documentation standards, templates, and workflows to ensure consistency, clarity, and accessibility across all materials.
• Translate complex technical concepts into clear, concise content tailored to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Oversee external consultants and translation vendors to support surge documentation needs and multilingual content delivery.

User Support & Training

• Collaborate with the Technical Communications Specialist and Customer Success Manager to develop multimedia training resources (e.g., video tutorials, interactive guides, FAQs).
• Provide expert-level support to internal and external users in navigating and applying documentation.
• Contribute to the design and delivery of user training sessions and onboarding materials.

Systems Oversight & Stakeholder Engagement

• Monitor and maintain the health and functionality of documentation platforms and help systems (e.g., Google Sites, Mayan, or similar).
• Serve as a key liaison between technical teams, data users, and project leadership to ensure documentation reflects evolving system capabilities and user needs.
• Contribute to strategic planning and continuous improvement of documentation and knowledge management practices.

Qualifications

Education, Knowledge, and Experience:

• Master's degree in knowledge management, computer science, data analytics, international development, communications, or a related field.
• Minimum of7-10 years of progressive experiencein technical writing, software documentation, or knowledge management, preferably in data-driven or international development contexts.
• Demonstrated experience leading documentation strategy and managing complex documentation systems.
• Familiarity with USAID-funded projects or government contracting environments is a plus but not required.

Skills:

• Advanced technical writing and editing skills, with a strong portfolio of documentation for software, data platforms, or analytical tools.
• Proficiency with documentation tools and markup languages (e.g., Markdown, Sphinx, Git-based workflows).
• Experience with content management systems and help platforms (e.g., Google Sites, Mayan, Confluence).Strong project management and stakeholder coordination skills.
• Ability to communicate complex technical information in a user-friendly, accessible manner.
• Experience developing multimedia content (e.g., video tutorials, interactive guides) is desirable but not required.
• Knowledge of international development, humanitarian data systems, or food security is a strong asset.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis. Employment-based visa sponsorship (including H-1B sponsorship) is not available for this position. Depending on project work, qualified candidates may need to meet certain residency requirements.

American Institutes for Research is an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.

AIR adheres to strict child safeguarding principles. All selected candidates will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles and will therefore undergo reference and background checks.

AIR maintains a drug-free work environment.

ACCESSIBILITY NOTICE:If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process due to a physical or mental disability, please send an email to Taliba Boone attboone@air.orgor call 202.403.500

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