Discover the role of technical writers and learn what their daily tasks look like, what the job requirements typically are, and how to hire the best in the field.
What is a Technical Writer?
A technical writer is a skilled professional who is responsible for creating, editing, and organizing technical documentation. They specialize in translating complex technical information into clear, concise, and user-friendly content for various audiences, including end-users, customers, and internal stakeholders.
Technical writers work across various industries, such as technology, engineering, healthcare, and finance, and their documentation may include user manuals, technical guides, online help systems, installation instructions, and other forms of documentation.
Technical writers are in high demand, making it an excellent profession for anyone with the skills to do the job well.
If you are looking for a job as an technical writer you can check out the open positions below.
How Much Does a Technical Writer Make?
On average, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of 2021, the median annual wage for technical writers in the United States was approximately $78,060. However, technical writers with more experience, and specialized skills, or working in high-demand industries may earn higher salaries, with some earning six figures.
Additionally, technical writers who work as freelancers or consultants may charge hourly rates or project-based fees, which can vary significantly based on the scope and complexity of the work. In terms of who has the highest annual salary, such employees are found in the software industry.
- SM&A - $117,060
- Cisco Systems - $113,069
- Stefanini IT Solutions - $111,513
- Google - $107,355
What are the Job Responsibilities of a Technical Writer?
As a technical writer, your primary responsibility is to create comprehensive and user-friendly documentation that conveys complex technical information to various audiences. This includes the responsibilities that follow.
- Researching and gathering information from subject matter experts, understanding the needs of the target audience, and creating written content that is clear, concise, and accurate.
- Documenting processes, procedures, and workflows, collaborating with cross-functional teams.
- Using tools and technologies to create, manage, and publish documentation.
- Following established documentation standards.
- Staying updated with industry trends, and continuously improving one’s skills to deliver high-quality documentation that helps users understand and effectively use technical products or services.
Meeting a Technical Writer
It’s one thing to know the requirements of a role — it’s another to see yourself in it. At The Org, we believe that putting faces to the job title can provide more context and a better sense of how the role fits into the big picture.
Explore live positions for technical writers and meet the people behind the title here.
Tips for Recruiting a Technical Writer
Recruiting a top-notch technical writer doesn’t have to be the challenge it might seem like at first. With the following tips, you can start the recruiting process in confidence.
- Prioritize industry experience. When creating your job description, consider noting that you’d prefer a candidate with experience relevant to your industry. Not only will this give you a leg up on recruiting, it could save you time and money as you’re bringing in someone who won’t need a lot of training to understand your company.
- Look for proven technical writing expertise above tool experience. Ultimately, tools used for technical writing are one-in-the-same. That’s why it makes little sense to prioritize a person’s tool experience. Instead, seek out candidates with the core skills of a great technical communicator and the ability to efficiently produce quality content.
- Identify what DOESN’T work. Before beginning your recruiting, do your research into which channels are inefficient in providing quality content. That way, you can zero in on the best, most qualified technical writers available.
- Understand a technical writer’s motivation. For most, technical writing is not about money. Instead, they’re most grateful for things like bylines and editorial feedback. And while you should still pay your writers well, highlight other benefits in your job description such as those motivators mentioned above.
By taking the time to do your research and prepare accordingly with the aforementioned tips, you’ll be well-suited to attract your ideal candidate.
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