Advances in technology have opened up many new career options. However, in order to take advantage of these opportunities, a person first has to be aware of what is available and what qualifications are necessary. One such career choice is that of a technical writer.
What is a Technical Writer?
Whenever you purchase an item that has to be assembled, installed, or operated, a set of instructions is normally included. These instructions detail how to use the product, how to put it together, and other necessary information. This is the job of a technical writer.
Technical writers create many different types of documentation. Depending on the nature of the product, a technical writer may be responsible for writing user instructions, installation procedures, quick user reference guides, product specifications, instructional articles for trade magazines, technical web copy, and other job-specific documents.
Technical writing differs from other types of writing jobs in that the material must be instructional in nature. The writing does not always call for a great deal of creativity, but rather is direct and to the point. Some people find this writing to be rather dry, but others find it to be challenging in that the writing must be concise and words chosen carefully.
Where do Technical Writers Work?
Every company that manufactures or supplies a product needs to have someone on the staff that can write instructions on using the product. From software development companies to manufacturers of automobiles, technical writers are working on putting together instructions on using their company’s product. Some companies have large documentation departments, while others employ a sole writer.
Many technical writers are freelance contract employees who work on specific projects and then move on to another job. This can be an extremely lucrative occupation, allowing the writer freedom and independence. These freelance writers work with engineers and software developers to create specific documents necessary for the product.
What do Technical Writers Earn?
Compensation for technical writers depends entirely on skill level, educational background and experience. Pay can range from $25,000 a year to over $100,000. Freelance writers are paid either by the job or hourly and rates vary from location to location.
It is best to consult a salary survey that covers the area in which you want to work to determine local pay ranges. To become a highly paid technical writer, a person generally needs at least five years experience. However, one or two years can be considered experienced, depending on the type of writing needed. Different industries pay at different rates.
How is Technical Documentation Developed?
The most effective technical writing is created when the writer actually goes through the process about which he or she is going to write. Sitting down at a computer and going through a process step-by-step, a writer can anticipate the problems that the end user may have completing the process. Every detail of the process must be documented and nothing can be assumed.
Technical writers often work with end users during product testing, developing documentation that is inspired by the actual users' questions and concerns. Sometimes specialists will offer additional input. Often, a writer will accompany an installation team or put an item together to document the process. The better the writer understands the product, the more effective his or her writing will be.
Technical writers normally write to the lowest possible user level, explaining even the most basic of terminology. Often, a technical document will include a glossary of terms, tables, and plenty of photographs or screen shots taking the user through the entire process.
Once the document has been written, it is normally taken through a process known as validation. A validation technician will take the copy and attempt to go through the process using only the document. He or she will make notes as to areas that are unclear or incorrect. Then, the technical writer must correct his or her work and resubmit it for additional testing. This process can be time-consuming, but is entirely necessary to ensure accurate user information.
What Educational Background is Required for a Technical Writer?
Technical writers generally are required to have a minimum of an Associate’s degree in English. Most companies require a Bachelor’s degree in English and even some type of technical background. Advanced degrees are required for those who work on highly technical documentation requiring a level of understanding of functional specifications.
In some cases, the writer is also an engineer who writes his or her own specifications for product development. In others, the software development team writes the initial specifications, and then the tech writer will “translate” these instructions into language that is easier for the consumer to understand.
What Kind of Training is Available for Technical Writers?
Ironically, although technical writers are in high demand, few colleges and universities offer specific courses in this field. Some engineering programs offer a course involving writing specifications, or other documentation, but degrees in technical writing are not widely available. However, there are online courses and seminars in technical writing that offer certification to perspective writers. These courses are Often taught by experienced technical writers.
A college student interested in pursuing a career in technical writing should take as many writing courses as are offered. Writing skills can be developed that can translate easily into a technical environment. Particular attention should be paid to courses involving spelling, grammar, punctuation, and concise writing habits. A company’s documentation becomes a reflection of the company itself, and there is nothing worse than poorly written manuals. All too often, quality in this area is overlooked, and the end result is a poor corporate image.
Finding a Job as a Technical Writer
There are a variety of resources available for perspective technical writers. Certainly, jobs are advertised in the newspaper, but most of these jobs are found by referral or word of mouth. Employment agencies can be another avenue to find employment. The best opportunities are often listed online through tech job Web sites. Use a search engine and type in “Technical Writing Jobs.” Read through the various advertisements, looking at required qualifications, educational background, etc.
If you are presently employed in a company that has a documentation department, become familiar with the writers and what they do. If an opening becomes available, apply. You may not have the necessary experience, but knowing the product and having good written communication skills is sometimes enough to open the door. Once you have an entry, it is important to work closely with an experienced writer and learn the process. Entry-level technical writers often do copy editing or testing of the instructions.
Outlook for Technical Writers
As technology advances, there will be more opportunities for technical writers than ever before. Getting educated and experienced in this field ensures future success. Freelance writers are in high demand as well, and as you build a portfolio, more opportunities will be available. This is a field that will continue to grow in the future, offering a broad variety of types of jobs at varying levels of compensation.
Additionally, technical writers can advance to become managers of their company’s documentation departments, overseeing the writing of others. For a writer, getting paid to write anything is often gratification by itself. Being able to list employment as a technical writer on one’s resume can open the door to other types of writing jobs such as web copy writing and editing, and even writing for magazines and technical journals.
