Jim Emerson
**** ******* *******, # ****, ******** KS 66047
************@*****.***, 785-***-****
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-emerson-036b203/
Experience
Senior Technical Writer
Education
Pre-Dissertation Courses, Philosophy of Mathematics, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS
MA Philosophy of Science, San Jose State University San Jose, CA
BA History, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA
Employment Overview
I provided expert documentation services (onsite and remotely) to:
PayPal
Clinical Reference Laboratory
Mastercard
Walmart App Store
ADP
Barclays Bank
Oracle
Illumina
Amazon Games Division
Abbott Vascular
GD Nassco
BioSoft Integrators
Saalex Solutions
Alere Abbott
Essential Data
ResMed
ICW Group
Alere
DexCom
SAIC
Sony Electronics
Asurion
HP/EDS/USDA
Juniper Networks
eBay
Tumbleweed
Cisco Systems
Microsoft Corp.
Goldbelt, Inc.
Technical Writing Experience
As a Senior Technical Writer and Editor, I created:
Developer guides, user manuals, training materials, quick start sheets, FAQ, online tutorials, help, standard operating procedures, security protocols, UI content, web and wiki page designs
Software descriptions (APIs, SDKs, Restful APIs, XML, JavaScript, Json, YAML, HTML, SOAP, etc.)
API Developer Portal walk-throughs, application platform portal descriptions
Database descriptions (SQL Server, Oracle, PL/SQL, DB2 tables, objects, indexing)
Cloud hosted application code explanations (service, game, etc.)
Biotech/Biomed manufacturing documents, standards, and procedures
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) guides
Authorization (OAuth 2.0) and authentication instructions
Financial, insurance, and game development system guides
Software as Service (SaaS), Infrastructure as Service (IaaS), and Platform as Service (PaaS) docs
Tools, Applications, Skills Experience
Postman, GraphQL, SQL Server Management, ServiceNow, VMWare, GitHub and Git, Visual Studio Code, MS Azure, Miro, Atom, AmazonWorkspaces (AWS) and Console, Azure DevOps Boards, SDLC, Postman, Amazon Chime, Flare, SharePoint, Kanban boards, Agile teams, Scrum meetings. Dreamweaver, PowerPoint, Excel, VISIO, Photoshop, HTML, XML, DITA schema, CSS, StyleVision, C#, C++, Json, YAML, JavaScript, JIRA, Confluence, JAMA, Agile PLM, eDHF, PlantUML, Lucid Charts, Camtasia, Adobe Acrobat, Markdown, Swagger, Word, Framemaker, Mongo Tech Stack, InDesign, CRM, SDLC, cGMP, LIMS, Slack, Zoom, eQMS Systems, MS Teams, Microsoft 365 tools, FDA/USDA docs, ISO standards, etc.
Employment History
API Technical Writer
11/2024 – Present
Prospance (PayPal contract)
Working with several teams, I created new API and SDK documentation for a PayPal merchant’s developer portal and internal developers. I created Confluence pages explaining JScript code and developer access requirements. I used JIRA and created illustrations using Miro templates, messaged engineers and PMs with Slack, and coordinated work via MSTeams.
4/2023 – 6/2024
API Technical Writer
Randstad (Clinical Reference Laboratory contract)
Working with teams, I created and maintained documents describing Clinical Reference Laboratory API Developer Portal, individual APIs (e.g., Marketplace API), associated method requests/responses, and possible error messages. I used ServiceNow to access relevant business components for information. Using SQL Server Management, I examined database tables for needed information including field type, size, requirements, etc. I explained XML and JSON code for readers and updated documents based on portal user experience. In addition to work, I attended security training; for example, “KnowBe4 ‘Social Engineering Red Flags’.”
11/2022 – 4/2023
API Technical Writer
Next Level Business Services (Mastercard DevZone contract)
Working with an Agile team, I managed documentation and created documents describing the new Mastercard APIs and SaaS platform that provides customers with access to APIs via the Internet. I explained API request and response requirements, parameters, end points, etc. Describing platforms, I created quick reference guides and user guides focusing on key features, benefits, use cases, available resources, and company support. I created text in Markdown and used GIT commands to create branches and add, commit, push, and pull md files stored in content repositories. I used Swagger to convert JSON to YAML, display and comment on the code. After reviews, documents were displayed in HTML on the Mastercard Developer Zone Azure platform.
7/2022 – 10/2022
API Technical Writer
Akraya (Walmart App Store and Developer Portal contract)
Working with three teams, I created a detailed Swagger User Guide based on personal and user experience. Using Markdown I wrote API descriptions for the Walmart Developer Portal (SaaS providing access to APIs via the Internet) including an OAuth Authentication and Authorization guide and maintained Confluence-JIRA ticket updates. For new developers, I created a document that explained how the team implements needed front-end solutions. The team used an Atlassian JIRA Service Desk IT service management approach enabled us to effectively direct customer service delivery.
11/2021 – 6/2022
Technical Writer
Matlin Silver (ADP contract)
Working with the National Account Services (NAS) team, I transformed 90+ technical Word documents into DITA-conforming XML files. These documents described the services available via the NAS SaaS portal. I created a standard operating procedure (SOP) manual explaining how to transform documents to DITA format. Using an Oxygen XML editor, I edited/rewrote text and XML coded the content. Then, I recorded the transformed results (identifying updates in multiple columns) on Excel spreadsheets.
7/2021 – 10/2021
Technical Writer
Han IT/Capgemini (Barclays Bank contract)
Working with the Cards Platform team, I managed team documentation. I created Markdown files (.md) containing detailed API descriptions and user guides explaining how to access and use Barclays API Exchange. This component of the Barclays Bank Card Platform provided customers with SaaS services. I created Confluence spaces and pages including an API standards guide, standard operating procedure (SOP) for access and updates, authentication security, eQMS protocols, IT support information, and backup procedures.
4/2021 – 7/2021
Technical Writer / QA Documentation Lead
Talent Resource Services (Oracle contract)
I created documents with diagrams explaining Oracle’s approach to migrating the JPMChase (JPMC) database system from IBM DB2 to Oracle PL/SQL. I managed documentation, attending daily ZOOM team meetings and using JIRA (task creating/update/tracking), Oracle CRM Data Cloud UI (customer service reviews), and the Oracle Enterprise Data Management UI. I included user experience in documentation updates. When a technical review indicated significant sectional changes (e.g., descriptions of the need for a database change), I recorded change reviews results on Excel spreadsheets. This enabled us to verify changes with developers before publishing the document. I used an Oracle Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Data Cloud UI to review consumer information and wrote HR documents explaining how to handle potential employee and customer contacts. I created flow through illustrations with Adobe Illustrator and stored documents as Confluence page attachments. As the QA Lead for documentation, I reviewed and corrected all infrastructure cutover (IBM DB2 to Oracle PL/SQL) procedures (database transfer, continuous service recovery, backup, flow through security, etc.) and other documents by our team before they were sent to our client company, JPMChase.
11/2020 – 4/2021
Technical Writer
Illumina (contract)
I created functional specs, user guides, operational qualifications (OQ), computer system validation (CSV), and infrastructure support performance qualifications (PQ) for new projects. The Illumina Clarity LIMS offered SaaS services with a PostgreSQL database for recording data. I created a quick reference guide for LIMS, SOP guide for new customers, and used Confluence with JIRA.
7/2020 – 11/2020
Senior Technical Writer
Aquent T Consulting (Amazon Games Division contract)
I explained how game developers use our SDK and APIs to set up games on our platform, access our libraries, etc. I created documents using AmazonWorkspaces (AWS) platform tools (AWS data analytics, cloud object storage, authentication security, user experience, etc.). The SaaS service provided access to games for customers and cloud-based game and infrastructure support services for game developers. I wrote short articles describing our system advantages, Slack and Chime for team comms, Markdown and Atom for editing, Confluence pages and JIRA for bug tracking, Git commands with GitHub for data access, storage, etc.
10/2019 – 5/2020
Senior Technical Writer / Change Order QA
Asen Consultants (Abbott Vascular contract)
I wrote reference sheets, user guides, and operating procedures manuals explaining how to operate and maintain Abbott Vascular equipment. In the Manufacturing Division, I consulted with equipment design and manufacturing process engineers for technical information about their SharePoint CMS and created a standard operating procedure (SOP) guide. Based upon reviews and IE6302 standards, I filled out Clinical Evaluation Reports (CER) indicating the regulatory compliance, safety, and tested performance of our devices. After document technical reviews, I performed a document change review to identify the specific differences between my original text and review-updated text. Based on user feedback, I created Change Orders justifying document updates, submitted Change Orders for review/approval, and incorporated requested updates in accordance with FDA regs (e.g., 21 CFR 820) for good manufacturing standards.
2/2019 – 10/2019
Senior Technical Writer
Insight Global (General Dynamics NASSCO contract)
I created documents describing IT and telecom support procedures and hardware systems for USN Military Sealift Command ships.
10/2018 – 1/2019
Technical Writer
BioSoft Integrators (contract)
I edited test scripts and test cases, worked on ISO 9001 certification documents and other documentation describing Illumina genotyping device (Tecan and Hamilton) management software. I updated user guides for new approval and wrote short documents for the public describing our genotyping system and the advantages of our system over the competition.
4/2018 – 8/2018
Computer Systems Analyst III / Senior Technical Writer
Saalex Solutions
I met with USMC Program Officers and civilian developers in VA (Stafford-Quantico area) and CA (Pendleton) to determine requirements for an updated Marine Ammunition Knowledge Enterprise (MAKE) System. Based upon meetings, I created recommendations for a new database application. The resulting MS Stack application MAKE had layered applications with an SQL Server DB. I wrote requirement analyses and documents defining updates to the SQL Server DB, CMS (SharePoint), UI options, and other features.
8/2017 – 1/2018
Senior Technical Writer / Configuration Management Engineer
TalentBurst Consulting (Alere Abbott contract)
I tested, verified, and revised Alere Abbott’s Agile Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software application user acceptance test (UAT) protocols. Using FrameMaker, I wrote user guides and infrastructure support/design requirements for Alere’s new Agile PLM Electronic Design History (eDHF), eQMS, and JAMA systems. I worked with team members using a Confluence space containing pages about JAMA.
5/2017 – 6/2017
Proposal Writer
Essential Data Corporation
After returning from a long travel vacation with my family, I accepted a short-term contract to write a winning GSA MEPS proposal for a client.
4/2016 – 4/2017
Vacationing
Emerson Family
I took a year-long vacation with my family, visiting AK, KS, No. CA, OR, IL, etc. During this period, I created a personal GitHub.
12/2015 – 4/2016
Senior Technical Writer
RasoSolutions (ResMed contract)
I created an illustrated user guide, operating procedures and documents explaining IT server management. I created ResMed project documents focusing on the Oracle PL/SQL database hardware refresh, IBM Privileged Identity & Access Management. ResMed used both cloud-based and downloadable native applications. Working with the Chief Information Security Officer, I created a guide explaining how the company uses WatchDox and RMS to control and protect files, eQMS to assure regulatory compliance, manage cloud computing file sharing, and assure the security of company and patient information. After this contract, I took off for a one-year family vacation traveling to visit relatives and friends (AK, No. CA, IL, TX).
8/2015 – 12/2015
Senior Technical Writer
SkillStorm Consulting (ICW Group contract)
I used corporate data to create readable content for reports and spreadsheets for quarterly audits. I developed IT infrastructure support, services procedure, and operations guides. I wrote a manual explaining the company’s approach to internal/external cyber security and created HR documents about employee training. I performed a document change review, contrasting key sections of documents for the existing system with the proposed updates. I also wrote release notes and a newsletter about new projects.
1/2015 – 8/2015
Senior Technical Writer
Modis Consulting (Alere contract)
I created design documents and work instructions describing Alere San Diego Data Center (Advent managed service provider (MSP), network layout, hardware, failover backup systems, etc.), Alere Wireless Network, Alere MedApps System, Alere GSP, and other Alere global systems. We maintained documentation in a SharePoint system for collaboration and continuous integration/delivery (CI/CD).
9/2014 – 12/2014
Senior Technical Writer
Foothills Consulting (DexCom contract)
I described change requirements and test plans for an Oracle Real Application Cluster (RAC) for DexCom’s Oracle EBS R12 Database and the firm’s Oracle PL/SQL setup. I created the deployment SOP and described communications monitoring with reliable connectivity. I explained system advantages and used SaaS Snowflake data analytics to analyze collected data. Using info about DexCom’s Oracle EBS Database and proposed Oracle PL/SQL setup, I described DexCom’s use of Cisco Unified Computing System (UCS) B200 Rack Servers, Cisco UCS 6296 Fabric Interconnects, Cisco Nexus 5548 Switches, and NepApp FAS3220 Storage System, Oracle SCAN Listener, Oracle Linux OS, Oracle RAC, Oracle Storage Management, NetApp Fiber Channel, Linux Host Utilities, NetApp Interop Tool, Oracle DB Calibration Tool, and shell scripts.
10/2013 – 8/2014
Instructional Designer / XML Specialist
Apex Systems Consulting (SAIC contract)
I developed online help for the SAIC GTSCMIS training system and a USN logistics training application coded in both XML and HTML. I used CSS, Altova XMLSpy, and Oxygen XML Editors to create XML code and StyleVision to develop DITA-compliant XML schema, and RoboHelp for online Help. My training guide was deployed on a Web site. The first screens contained access instructions and an interactive QA form.
5/2013 – 9/2013
Senior Technical Writer
Foothills Consulting (Sony Electronics contract)
I created content for cloud-based mobile and native application UIs based on UX research. I wrote an API Guide and specs for Sony’s web based PlayMemories Photobook. I explained JavaScript used in Sony’s websites. I described telecom security and created a guide showing how to use the Photobook.
10/2011 – 5/2013
Senior Technical Writer
LRS Consulting (Asurion contract)
I analyzed Asurion’s IT management and support operations, creating system user guides, SOPs, runbooks, and online tutorial explaining how to install and maintain our system. I produced a video tutorial (Camtasia-generated visuals) showing how to use our system and online Help (RoboHelp). I described our networks with process flow illustrations (VISIO) and created marketing documents focusing on Asurion’s protection and security policies. I described our API to external systems and summarized the J2EE project (Systems Overview Service).
9/2008 – 7/2011
Information Systems Analyst / Senior Technical Writer
NextGen (HP/EDS at USDA contract)
I attended USDA/FSA Joint Application Development (JAD) conferences collecting requirements for new product features and created a System Requirements document (IEE 830-1998). I developed a Requirements Traceability Matrix, API guide, test/use cases, a user manual, a HR security protocol guide, and UI content. I developed SDK sections and technical manuals to US doc standards (e.g., MIL-STD-38784) and maintained requirements summaries in database tables. During this period, I successfully defended my thesis and earned an MA in Philosophy of Science at San Jose State University, receiving the Arts and Sciences Department Outstanding Thesis Award (2009) and started the University of Kansas Ph.D. program in the Philosophy of Mathematics.
11/2007 – 8/2008
Senior Technical Writer
Bryson Technologies (Juniper Networks contract)
I developed a SOAP/XML API guide and device/system installation, and guides for new products. Simultaneously, I continued the MA program at SJSU graduate school.
7/2007 – 10/2007
Senior Technical Writer
DGN Technologies (eBay contract)
I created Wiki-based online help for an eBay application that enabled users to test reconfigurations of advertisement pages. I described metadata stored in a data warehouse and created a Wiki user guide for the eBay Security Asset Management System which explained encryption algorithms, security policies, and end user procedures. Simultaneously, I continued attending SJSU graduate school.
4/2007 – 6/2007
Senior Technical Writer
Oak Hill Industries (Tumbleweed Communications contract)
I used FrameMaker to describe the internet message communications security applications SecureTransport and MailGate. Simultaneously, I continued attending SJSU MA graduate school.
2/2004 – 3/2007
Senior Technical Writer
Bryson Technologies (Cisco Systems contract)
I created documents and online help describing Cisco’s RESTful APIs (pre-DevNet), Javadocs, JavaScript code, command syntax, and the network security system. I described Cisco’s Oracle PL/SQL DB data warehouse and started the MA program in Philosophy of Science at San Jose State University (SJSU).
6/1997 – 12/2003
Senior Technical Writer
Microsoft Corporation
As a full-time employee, I created documents and online help describing SQL Server and MySQL databases, APIs, and MS applications. I created a communications protocol sheet, programming guide (classes, methods), and HTML code references. After several rewarding years, I resigned to work as a contractor in the SF Bay area.
7/1993 – 5/1997
Senior Technical Writer / Proposal Writer / Business Consultant
Ravenworks, Inc. (dba)
As Ravenworks, Inc., I created technical documents, proposals, business plans, and video scripts for a Native American Corporation (Goldbelt, Inc.), Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation, government clients, and the Alaska Pribilof Island Community Development Association. I taught a course in Multimedia Programming at the University of Alaska, SE (Juneau, AK) and a proposal writing course at Juneau community school.
Portfolio Technical Writing Samples
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/i81m1ws7xwi5l25u8492b/ACiAHbHiGT1YBYUotVT2IHU?rlkey=bko5ua3vuxmrf7wyvxmzov330&st=srera2wq&dl=0
Other Professional Publications
Interpreting Quantum Nonlocality as Platonic Information
http://scholarworks.sjsu.edu/etd_theses/3650