What Does a Technical Writer Do?
Technical writers are responsible for the manuals that come
with new computers, the text that comes out on your computer screen when you
set up a new software program, and the troubleshooting guide that accompanies
your new color printer. Technical writers even document the companies'
manufacturing operations, research and write bids for government contracts, and
formulate in-house marketing materials for company employees. In addition to
great writing skills, technical writers have to understand how the technology
works. Technical writers' schedules are predictable in that the hours are
usually long: sixty-hour workweeks are common.
A beginning writer working full-time starts at around
$42,000 to $45,000 a year (as of 2010). When you have gained three to four
years of experience, it goes up to $50,000, and with five to seven years,
$55,000 to $63,000. It is not unusual for a senior contract writer to earn
$65,000 to $83,000. It could increase from there, based on how many assignments
the writer decides to take on.
The exponential growth of technological products in the past
decade has afforded this field quite a big boost. Another plus is that growth
isn't bound to particular geographic regions. Contract writers can live just
about anywhere, since they only just send out their work through the internet.
Most companies will ask for a bachelor's degree, ideally
with an emphasis on technical writing, but it may be possible to break in with
a liberal arts degree and no experience in technical writing provided that it
is coupled with superior writing skills. The sum of technical expertise
necessary totally depends on the product line. Writing directions for using
children's software programs does not need as much technical experience
compared to working for a company that designs computer semi-conductors.
You must not be easily intimidated or afraid to ask
questions. You'll be working with people who hold Ph.D's in engineering and are
experts in their field. If you do not understand something, it's up to you to
continue asking until you grasp it. Engineers and programmers aren't usually
the most patient individuals, so you have to be persistent.
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