Build the Templates Behind Better Procedures
We're looking for a Word developer like you.
If you build macro-enabled Word templates that people actually enjoy using — content controls that behave, XML that stays mapped, code that doesn't break the moment someone opens the file in a different version of Word — we'd like to hear from you. We partner with organizations in nuclear, oil and gas, DOE facilities, utilities, and other industries where procedure quality directly affects safety and operational outcomes. The templates our writers work in are the foundation of every deliverable we produce, and we're looking for an independent contractor to design, maintain, and extend them. This is project-based work on an as-needed basis, not a full-time position. We'd rather say that up front than waste your time.
Step 1
Apply
Fill out the form below and include a link to your portfolio or code samples. That's the first thing we look at, so make it easy to find.
Step 2
Talk It Through
If your skills line up with what we need, someone from our team will reach out to schedule a short conversation about your experience and how you approach template work.
Step 3
Join Our Contractor Bench
Approved contractors go on our short list. When a client template project comes in that matches your skill set, we'll contact you with scope, timeline, and terms.
What you'll do:
- Design and develop macro-enabled Word templates (.dotm) that automate content insertion, styling, headers and footers, numbering, and boilerplate text
- Build and maintain custom XML parts that store structured procedure metadata, and map them to content controls that stay locked while remaining updatable
- Write clean, modular VBA — custom dialogs, form fields, content controls, and real error handling
- Configure document protection, versioning logic, and controlled editing regions to support compliant procedure and training documentation
- Translate business requirements into technical specifications and propose the template structures and automation logic to meet them
- Maintain and refactor existing templates, troubleshoot issues our writers report, and document each template in a brief user guide
What we're looking for:
- Demonstrated experience developing Microsoft Word VBA and template solutions — portfolio or code samples strongly preferred
- Advanced VBA skills, including modular code design, debugging, and fluency with the Word object model
- Hands-on experience with custom XML parts and XML mapping inside Word documents
- Ability to parse and manipulate XML via VBA — MSXML, XPath queries, the custom XML parts collection — including loading from files and updating embedded XML
- Strong command of Word template features: styles, content controls, fields, sections, building blocks, and document protection
- A track record as an independent contractor: managing your own schedule, tracking deliverables, and communicating clearly with non-technical stakeholders
Work arrangement: Fully remote with periodic virtual meetings. You provide your own equipment, software, and development environment.Independent contractor (1099), project-based or hourly as agreed.
Engagement type: Independent contractor (1099), project-based or hourly as agreed.
Volume: Intermittent and project-driven. We'll be straight with you — there may be quiet stretches between projects.
Confidentiality: All work involves client documentation. Confidentiality and data protection provisions apply to every engagement.
Compliance: Contractors are responsible for their own tax, insurance, and business compliance obligations.
Nice to have: Familiarity with the Open XML file structure behind .docx, .docm, .dotx, and .dotm files, and how macros and XML interact inside them. Experience building import and export routines that move template data as XML into other systems — policy repositories, procedure libraries, or training databases. Ribbon and Office UI customization. Prior work in a regulated documentation environment.
