Technical Writer

What a Technical Writer Does

Technical writers work for various science, technology and health care companies and firms, writing all kinds of technical content for them. This may include writing newsletters, training booklets, manuals, assembly instructions, putting together charts, helping with journals and reports, and more. They work with engineers, scientists and other technical-minded professionals whose writing skills aren't as strong but who need to communicate projects and information in a clear, concise way that is grammatically correct and reads naturally. The top industries that employ technical writers are health care, information technology, engineering and computer science. They conduct research by interviewing the scientists and professionals in the field, using the Internet, going to the library, shadowing or observing professionals as they use a particular tool or system that needs to be written about. They work in offices and may work in-house for a company or for a firm that provides technical writing services to different clients.

How to Become a Technical Writer

A bachelor's degree is required to become a technical writer, but no particular major is considered to lead to the profession. Journalism, English and communications are all common majors, but taking courses in a technical field related to the industry you want to work in -- engineering or chemistry for example -- is recommended to familiarize you with the technical jargon. Because of this trend towards personalizing your degree, a liberal arts degree is a smart choice for those students who want to become technical writers. Taking courses in English, communications, and other writing-intensive subjects mixed with your technical field of choice can really prepare you for a job in the industry. Being able to prove your ability to make complex systems and instructions seem simple and easy-to-follow is one of the most important skills you'll need as a technical writer.

Career Outlook for Technical Writers

The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects good job growth through the year 2018 for technical writers. Technical writers held about 48,900 jobs in 2008, but about 8,900 jobs are going to be added to the profession through 2018, which results in an 18% increase. This rate is higher than the national average for all other occupations. The median annual wage for technical writers was $61,620 in 2008, and the middle 50% earned between $47,100 and $78,910. The industry that paid their technical writers the highest salaries was software publishing -- $71,640 -- followed by computer systems design and related services -- $64,380 -- then management, scientific, and technical consulting services -- $62,920. The major industry that paid the least was architectural, engineering, and related services. Depending on your industry, geographic location, experience and education, you could greatly increase your earning potential.