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A technical writer creates technical documentation, such as user manuals, instruction guides, and online help systems for software, hardware, and other products. They work closely with subject matter experts to gather information and translate complex technical concepts into clear and concise language for non-technical audiences. They ensure that documentation is accurate and meets the needs of the end-users. They use various tools and technologies including authoring software, graphic design programs, and content management systems.
Professor of English, University of La Verne
Avg. Salary $65,329
Avg. Salary $59,228
Growth Rate 6%
Growth Rate 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.35%
Asian 8.70%
Black or African American 6.60%
Hispanic or Latino 7.79%
Unknown 4.97%
White 71.59%
Genderfemale 50.28%
male 49.72%
Age - 45American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 45Stress level is manageable
7.1 - high
Complexity Level is challenging
7 - challenging
Work Life balance is fair
6.4 - fair
Pros
High demand for technical writers in various industries
Opportunity to work remotely or freelance
Chance to learn new technologies and skills
Potential for job stability and security
Ability to communicate complex information to diverse audiences
Cons
Need for constant research and staying up-to-date with technology trends
Occasional lack of recognition or appreciation for work done by non-technical colleagues
Need to work independently and manage time effectively
Difficulty in receiving feedback and criticism from subject matter experts
Challenging communication with non-tech readers
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Skills![]() ![]() | Percentages![]() ![]() |
---|---|
Technical Documentation | 8.58% |
Subject Matter Experts | 7.63% |
PowerPoint | 5.67% |
Visio | 4.01% |
SharePoint | 3.89% |
Technical writer certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific technical writer certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.
The most common certifications for technical writers include Certified Technical Professional (CTP) and Certified Professional Technical Communicator - Expert (CPTC).
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your technical writer resume.
You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a technical writer resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.
Now it's time to start searching for a technical writer job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
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The average Technical Writer salary in the United States is $65,329 per year or $31 per hour. Technical writer salaries range between $48,000 and $87,000 per year.
What Am I Worth?
Diversified projects and project responsibilities.
Needing to continually explain to supposedly more educated persons the basic writing and grammar mistakes when proofreading.
Communication and completion. I like doing a complicated job and then finishing on time and within budget. Getting done and filing away, ready for the next project is the best.
Being forgotten in the rush. Complicated projects are an easy place to get left behind. I have to keep my name and voice in front of people or I get left out.
Unexpected deadlines, I guess, although it sometimes seems I do my sharpest writing in those pressured situations.