Heluna Health·Sacramento, California
The Senior Planning and Preparedness Technical Writer develops and maintains emergency plans, guidance documents, and training materials for the California Department of Public Health. This role involves collaborating with subject matter experts to synthesize complex data into clear, actionable content for diverse audiences.
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and Heluna Health seek a highly skilled Senior Planning and Preparedness Technical Writer to join our dynamic team. Under the direction of the PREB Chief, the Senior Planning and Preparedness Technical Writer is responsible for the development and maintenance of a variety of written materials, including CDPH emergency and continuity plans, response procedures, guidance documents, training materials, policies, reports, action plans, manuals, and supporting materials on complex public health topics. The position will also develop compelling materials that effectively convey complex information to diverse audiences, including policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the general public. The position will generate high-quality content, working both independently and collaboratively as part of a cross-functional team.
Must submit a resume with the application.
for this position is $145,000 - $165,000 annually depending upon experience and qualifications.
May be required to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays.
Essential functions
Conduct literature reviews.
Review and synthesize research/data and compile information into briefings, reports, guidance, policy, emergency and continuity plans, and other written documents, presentations, and slide decks.
Collaborate with subject matter experts in the development of guidance, policy, and emergency and continuity planning documents.
Determine the clearest and most logical way to present information so that it is easily understood by a broad audience.
Regular communication and collaboration with internal and external subject matter experts .
Review and/or copyedit content developed by other members of the team.
Create and deliver trainings and mentor other emergency response planning team members.
Job qualifications
Minimum of 5 years work experience in public health, healthcare.
Extensive experience writing complex technical documents such as guidance and policy documents, reports, action plans, descriptive manuals and guides.
Advanced knowledge of issues in public health, including science-based, technical, or emerging issues.
Advanced research and fact verification skills using available resources, publications and subject matter experts as needed.
Extensive experience developing presentations/slide decks.
Experience working with PowerPoint, Word, Excel, SmartSheet, or other visual platforms
Advanced written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to tailor documents and messages for a variety of stakeholders.
Advanced interpersonal communication skills, including active listening and effective collaboration skills.
Advanced judgement, analytical and decision-making skills and advanced diplomacy for navigating sensitive issues.
Discretion in handling confidential documents or issues.
This position is hybrid and must be available during normal Pacific Standard Time Zone working hours.
Must have functioning Wi-Fi and internet access in remote location.
It is the policy of Heluna Health to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants, without regard to age (40 and over), national origin or ancestry, race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, reproductive health decision making, physical or mental disability, medical condition (including cancer or a record or history of cancer), AIDS or HIV, genetic information or characteristics, veteran status or military service.
Candidates must have at least 5 years of experience in public health or healthcare and a Master's degree or higher in a related field. Strong technical writing, research, and communication skills are required to translate complex information for policymakers and the public.
Market context
In California, senior planning and preparedness technical writer roles are typically tied to public health, healthcare, and emergency readiness work, where clear documentation and policy-facing communication are in steady demand. Competition is often strongest for candidates who combine advanced education, 5+ years of relevant experience, and the ability to translate complex material for both policymakers and the public. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save research time, and tailor your application to show examples of technical writing, research, and cross-audience communication.