Technical Writer Career Guide

What is a technical writer?

A technical writer is a professional who creates clear and concise informational content for various technical fields. They are responsible for translating complex information into easy-to-understand text tailored to a specific audience’s needs. This might include creating user manuals, how-to guides, white papers, FAQs, instruction booklets, and other forms of technical documentation.

These writers are crucial in industries such as technology, engineering, healthcare, and manufacturing, among others. Professionals in this role help bridge the gap between technical information and the end-user, making complex systems or procedures understandable for the intended audience. Their work contributes significantly to user experience, product usability, and customer satisfaction.

Duties and responsibilities

The primary responsibility of a technical writer is to produce clear, concise, and accurate content that describes a product, system, or procedure. They gather and interpret technical information from various sources, such as product specifications, design documents, and subject matter experts.

Their duties often involve:

• Creating and formatting documents
• Developing graphics or diagrams to support the text
• Ensuring the content aligns with industry standards and company guidelines

These professionals also review and revise documents based on feedback and often use specialized software or content management systems to create and manage their documentation.

Additionally, writers often collaborate with product managers, engineers, customer service teams, and other stakeholders to ensure that the content meets the audience’s needs and accurately represents the product or procedure.

Work environment

Technical writers work in various settings, including technology companies, manufacturing firms, service industries, and government agencies. They often work in office environments, though remote work is becoming increasingly common in this field.

Their work is largely computer-based, and they often use word processing and desktop publishing software, as well as graphics software and content management systems. Attention to detail, strong writing skills, and understanding and simplifying complex information are critical in this role.

Typical work hours

Technical writers typically work full-time, standard business hours. However, deadlines and project needs can sometimes require additional hours. For instance, a product release might call for overtime to ensure that all related documentation is ready and accurate.

Freelance writers or those working remotely often have more flexible schedules, though they still need to meet their clients’ deadlines and expectations. Continuous learning is also critical to the job, as these professionals must stay updated on industry trends, new tools, and the technical fields they write about.

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How to become a technical writer

To become a technical writer, you will need a combination of education, skills, and experience. In this career guide section, we cover the steps you’ll need to take to achieve your goal:

Step 1: Obtain a bachelor’s degree

A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as English, communications, journalism, or a technical subject related to the industry you plan to work in, is typically the minimum educational requirement for entry-level positions. Some employers may also consider candidates with degrees in other fields combined with relevant writing experience and technical knowledge.

Step 2: Gain relevant work experience

Hands-on experience is essential for developing the skills necessary to succeed in this role. Look for internships, freelance opportunities, or entry-level positions that involve writing, editing, or content creation in a technical field. Gaining practical experience in creating technical documentation or working with technical subject matter will help you build a strong foundation for your career.

Step 3: Develop essential writing and communication skills

These writers need strong writing, editing, and communication skills to convey complex technical information clearly and concisely. Focus on developing these skills through on-the-job experience, writing workshops, or by pursuing courses in technical writing, editing, or content development.

Consider looking into the popular courses from Coursera and Udemy listed below. These classes are fully online with flexible deadlines, and you’ll earn a shareable certificate upon completion for each of them:

• Technical Writing: Master Your Writing Career
• Introduction To Technical Writing
• Professional Technical Writing: Advance Your Writing Skills
• Writing and Editing: Word Choice and Word Order

Step 4: Familiarize yourself with industry-specific tools and software

These professionals often use specialized tools and software to create and edit documentation, such as Adobe FrameMaker, MadCap Flare, or Microsoft Visio. Familiarize yourself with these tools and others specific to your industry, as well as content management systems and version control software, to streamline your writing process and collaborate with team members.

Step 5: Obtain relevant certifications (optional)

While not required, obtaining professional certifications in technical writing or related fields can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field. Some widely recognized certifications include the Certified Professional Technical Communicator (CPTC) from the Society for Technical Communication (STC) and the Certified Technical Writer (CTW) from the American Medical Writers Association (AMWA).

Step 6: Build a professional portfolio

A professional portfolio is essential for showcasing your writing skills and technical expertise to potential employers. Collect samples of your best technical writing work, such as user guides, manuals, instructional materials, or technical reports, and organize them professionally. You may also want to create an online portfolio or personal website to share your work with prospective clients or employers easily.

Step 7: Network and stay current with industry trends

Build your professional network by attending industry events, conferences, and workshops related to technical writing, content development, or your specific field. Join professional associations and participate in online forums to connect with other technical writers and professionals in your industry. 

Staying current with industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies will help you remain competitive in the job market and ensure you are prepared for the evolving demands of the role.

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How much do technical writers make?

Several factors can influence the salary of a technical writer. One of the most significant is experience. Those with a track record of producing clear, concise, and effective documentation and who understand the technologies they’re writing about generally earn more than those new to the field.

The specific industry in which they work can also greatly affect their compensation. Some industries, such as technology, pharmaceuticals, and engineering, typically offer higher salaries due to the complex and specialized nature of the writing required.

Geographic location plays a crucial role as well. Writers in areas with a higher cost of living and a strong tech industry, like Silicon Valley or Seattle, often earn more than those in other regions.

Education can also impact salary. While many come from a variety of educational backgrounds, those with a degree in a related field like technical communication, journalism, or the area in which they’re writing (such as computer science for a tech company) may have higher earning potential.

Lastly, the size of the company can significantly influence compensation. Larger companies with more complex documentation needs usually pay more than smaller companies.

Browse technical writer salary data by market

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Types of technical writers

This career guide section explores the diverse types and specializations of technical writers. Their specializations can vary depending on their industry, the type of documents they create, and the specific audiences they target.

Software technical writer

Software technical writers specialize in creating documentation for software applications. This can include user manuals, online help guides, system requirements, release notes, and FAQs. These writers often work closely with software developers and product managers to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the documentation.

Medical technical writer

Medical technical writers create a range of documents in the healthcare industry. They may write patient information leaflets, medical device manuals, clinical trial protocols, or regulatory submission documents. These professionals typically have a background in life sciences and a deep understanding of regulatory standards in healthcare.

Engineering technical writer

These writers produce technical documentation related to engineering fields such as mechanical, electrical, civil, or software engineering. This might include product specifications, maintenance manuals, project proposals, and feasibility studies. They often have a background in engineering or a related field.

Scientific technical writer

Specializing in documenting scientific research and findings, writers in this role might write research papers, lab reports, science textbooks, or articles for science magazines. They usually have a solid understanding of scientific concepts and are skilled at presenting complex scientific information clearly.

Technical proposal writer

Technical proposal writers specialize in creating proposals for projects or contracts. These professionals write detailed documents describing the proposed solutions, outline the costs and benefits, and demonstrate how they meet the client’s needs. They often work in industries like IT, engineering, or government contracting.

Technical marketing writer

Technical marketing writers create content that combines technical information with marketing objectives. Writers in this position might write white papers, product datasheets, case studies, or blog posts that promote a product or service while explaining its technical features and benefits. These professionals often have a blend of technical knowledge and marketing skills.

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Top skills for technical writers

Superior writing skills are fundamental for technical writers. They must communicate complex information clearly and succinctly, ensuring their documentation is easy to read and understand. This requires a firm grasp of grammar and syntax and the ability to write in a straightforward and logical style that suits the intended audience.

A strong understanding of technology is another crucial skill, as they often write about complex technical topics like software applications, engineering processes, or scientific research. Having a good grasp of these subjects allows them to understand the information they are writing about and explain it effectively to others.

Translating complex information into understandable content is vital for these writers. Their task is to take technical jargon and complicated concepts and present them in a way that is accessible to a non-technical audience. This ability is crucial for creating documentation that is useful and effective.

Research capabilities are also essential, as professionals in this role often need to gather information from various sources, such as product specifications, technical experts, and existing documentation. Strong research skills ensure their information is accurate, comprehensive, and up-to-date.

Finally, excellent attention to detail allows technical writers to ensure their documentation is free from errors, inconsistencies, and omissions. This meticulous approach is critical to producing high-quality documentation that users can rely on for accurate and helpful information.

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Technical writer career path

The career path for a technical writer often begins with roles that develop writing skills and technical knowledge. This could be a position as a junior technical writer, content writer, or a similar role in a technical field. You’ll learn to translate complex information into clear, concise, and user-friendly documentation.

You can advance to a technical writer role with experience and a portfolio of technical writing samples. You’ll work closely with subject matter experts to create manuals, guides, FAQs, and other documentation that helps users understand and effectively use a product or service.

You could move into a senior role as you gain more experience and expertise. Here, you’ll handle more complex writing projects, may lead writing teams, and might be involved in strategic planning for documentation development.

Further advancement could lead to a role as a documentation manager or a director of technical writing, where you’ll oversee a team of technical writers and set the strategic direction for all technical documentation within an organization.

Beyond technical writing, some professionals transition into related fields such as technical training, project management, or product management, particularly if they have strong communication and organizational skills.

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Similar job titles

• Technical Trainer
• Product Manager
• Instructional Designer
• Copywriter
• Document Control Specialist

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Position trends and outlook for technical writers

One major trend is the increasing demand for writers in the tech industry, particularly in software development. As software becomes more complex and ubiquitous, there’s a growing need for skilled professionals to create user manuals, help systems, and other documentation that helps users understand and use these tools effectively.

Another trend is the growing importance of visual communication in technical writing. Infographics, diagrams, and other visual elements can significantly enhance understanding, and these writers are often expected to create or collaborate on these elements.

In addition, the shift toward agile and iterative development methodologies in many industries has implications for this role. They need to be flexible and able to work in fast-paced environments, often updating documentation to reflect rapid changes in products or processes.

Finally, the increasing globalization of business means that many writers must consider localization in their work, ensuring that documentation can be easily translated and understood in different languages and cultural contexts.

Employment projections for technical writers

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for technical writers is projected to grow 6 percent through 2031, as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth is largely driven by the ongoing expansion of scientific and technical products and the need for individuals to explain these products to a general audience. 

Those with a solid technical background, excellent writing skills, and the ability to adapt to new tools and methodologies will likely have the best job prospects.

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Technical writer career tips

Master different types of technical writing

In this role, you’ll need to create various documents, such as user manuals, help guides, and technical reports. Understanding each document type’s different formats, structures, and styles is crucial to producing high-quality, effective content.

Develop an understanding of your audience

Understanding your audience’s needs and technical knowledge level is vital to creating content that is accessible and useful. Always consider who will read your document and tailor your content to meet their needs.

Stay updated with industry trends

Industry trends can influence the tools you use, the topics you write about, and how you present information. Stay updated with these trends to ensure your technical writing remains current and relevant.

Build a professional network

Networking can provide valuable insights, learning opportunities, and potential collaborations. Consider joining professional associations and communities such as:

• Society for Technical Communication (STC)
• American Medical Writers Association (AMWA)
• Association of Proposal Management Professionals (APMP)

Improve your technical skills

These writers often need to understand and explain complex technical information in simple terms. Improving your technical skills can help you understand this information more easily and write about it more accurately.

Implement continuous learning

Continuous learning is key in the rapidly evolving field of technical writing. Stay updated on new tools, methodologies, and best practices. Areas of focus could include:

• Emerging trends in technical communication
• New technical writing tools and software
• Best practices in information design and usability
• Updates on standards and regulations in your industry

Develop strong research skills

Research is a crucial part of technical writing. You’ll need to gather accurate, up-to-date information to create your documents. Strong research skills can help you find this information efficiently and ensure your content is reliable and accurate.

Cultivate clarity and conciseness in writing

Technical writing should be clear and concise. Avoid unnecessary jargon, keep your sentences short and straightforward, and use diagrams or illustrations to clarify complex points. Cultivating these qualities in your writing can make your documents easier to understand and more effective.

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FAQs