Software Documentation Specialist
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 9, 2026. First seen by Alion on Oct 8, 2026. Forge Nano scores B on the Alion truth index.
Position Summary
Forge Nano is seeking a detail-oriented and technically skilled Software Documentation Specialist to support the development, testing, documentation, and commissioning of automation, logic, and safety systems for semiconductor Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) production supervisory control software. Reporting to the Senior Engineer, this role will work closely with software developers, equipment engineers, and cross-functional teams to create and maintain high-quality technical documentation that supports the operation, maintenance, and adoption of Forge Nano’s advanced manufacturing technologies.
The ideal candidate possesses strong technical writing experience, a passion for learning complex software systems, and the ability to translate technical concepts into clear, user-friendly documentation. This individual will play a critical role in developing operator, technician, engineer, and administrator documentation while supporting software validation, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement activities.
Responsibilities
Technical Documentation & Knowledge Management
- Learn and operate Forge Nano’s Windows-based semiconductor equipment Human Machine Interface (HMI).
- Develop a working understanding of equipment hardware, subsystems, software functionality, and process workflows.
- Observe and perform operational procedures to accurately document software and hardware interactions.
- Develop and maintain comprehensive user documentation for operators, technicians, engineers, and system administrators.
- Create user manuals, operating procedures, workflow documentation, installation guides, and troubleshooting materials.
- Capture screenshots, workflow diagrams, configuration procedures, and technical references for inclusion in documentation packages.
- Produce release notes and maintain revision-controlled documentation in accordance with company standards.
- Ensure technical documentation remains accurate, current, and aligned with software releases and system updates.
Software Validation & Testing Support
- Execute manual test cases to validate documented procedures and software functionality.
- Verify software behavior and operational workflows through observation, system testing, and collaboration with engineering teams.
- Identify undocumented features, usability concerns, workflow gaps, and potential documentation improvements.
- Troubleshoot inconsistencies between system behavior and documented procedures.
- Document testing observations, findings, and recommendations for corrective actions.
- Support software release activities by validating documentation accuracy prior to deployment.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Collaborate closely with software developers, controls engineers, equipment engineers, and subject matter experts to gather technical information.
- Participate in design reviews, software reviews, and project meetings to ensure documentation requirements are met.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives related to software usability, user experience, and technical communication.
- Assist with the development and maintenance of internal knowledge bases and user training materials.
- Contribute to the standardization of documentation practices across engineering and manufacturing teams.
The following responsibilities represent the primary duties of this role and are not intended to be an exhaustive list.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Industrial Automation, Electrical Engineering, Technical Communication, or a related technical discipline, or equivalent practical experience.
- 3+ years of technical writing experience supporting software, industrial systems, automation equipment, or related technologies.
- Experience with Windows desktop applications and software-based user interfaces.
- Experience creating software user manuals, operating guides, and technical documentation.
- Strong software testing, troubleshooting, and analytical skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational capabilities.
- Ability to understand and communicate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
Preferred Qualifications & Experience
- Ability to read and understand C#/.NET source code to verify application behavior and document software functionality.
- Experience using Visual Studio for code navigation, debugging, and software analysis.
- Familiarity with WPF and Windows desktop application architectures.
- Experience in semiconductor manufacturing, industrial automation, equipment control systems, or related technical environments.
- Knowledge of software version control systems such as Git, Azure DevOps, or equivalent platforms.
- Experience supporting factory automation, robotics, or advanced manufacturing systems.
- Familiarity with technical change management and revision-controlled documentation processes.
Work Environment
This is an on-site position operating within office, laboratory, and semiconductor equipment manufacturing environments. Required personal protective equipment (PPE) may include safety glasses, protective gloves, steel-toe footwear, lab coat, and other safety equipment as required by operational areas. Strict adherence to company policies, operating procedures, safety protocols, and site requirements is mandatory.
Physical Requirements
This position requires frequent standing, walking, reaching, and use of hands to operate computer systems, equipment, and documentation tools. The employee must regularly communicate with team members and stakeholders across engineering, manufacturing, and operational functions. Occasional work near moving mechanical equipment may be required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role. The noise level within manufacturing and operational environments is generally moderate.
Travel
Up to 15% travel may be required to support customer site activities, system startups, software deployments, training, maintenance activities, and other business needs.
Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $90,000.00 - $95,000.00 annually. The salary range for this exempt position will be determined based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, skills, and alignment with internal equity among current employees.
Benefits Offered:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Life and Disability Insurance
- Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
- FSA and HSA Programs
- 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match
- Paid Time Off (PTO) & Floating Holidays
- Paid Company Holidays
- Paid Parental Leave
Forge Nano Inc. is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.