Technical writing FAQs

Many writers have heard that technical writing is a good way to make a steady income writing, and can even be a fairly lucrative field. But, many people do not know much about technical writing. These FAQs address some of the common questions about technical writing.

What are the functions of technical writers?

Technical writers commonly create explanatory documentation; the field is also called technical communications. Technical writers create many of the documents used within corporations and that companies distribute to their clients, investors and market. Some examples of documents that technical writers create include: 

In what areas are technical writers needed?

Technical writers are found in a variety of fields including finance, engineering, healthcare, biotechnology, scientific research, academia and computer software and hardware. Smaller companies may use contract technical writers or have only a single technical writer in-house. Larger firms may have teams of technical writers working on large-scale projects.

Is there a technical writer society or technical writer association I can join to learn more about technical writing and meet others in the field?

There are several organizations for technical writers, but the most widely known is the Society for Technical Communication.  Joining a technical writer association can be very valuable for both experienced and novice technical writers since it may give you access to technical writing resources, technical writing job listings, information including salary surveys, sample interview questions and technical writer job descriptions.

What does freelance technical writing pay?

Because technical writing crosses so many disciplines and incorporates many different types of writing, the freelance rates for technical writing vary significantly. As with any field, freelance technical writing pay also varies based on the experience of the writer and the geographic location and size of the company. While novices will command lower contract rates than experienced technical writers, even beginners can usually earn more doing technical writing than standard copy writing. In many large cities in the U.S., technical writing contract rates may range from $40 - $80 per hour depending on the requirements of the project.

What is a typical technical writer salary?

While there may not be a typical technical writer salary, you can find what the going rates for technical writing work are in your area. Start by getting a ball-park figure at a national salary survey site such as salary.com.  If you are a member of a local chapter of a technical writer association such as the STC, they may be able to give you some information about local salary ranges, as well. Remember that technical writing salaries are generally at least 50% greater than copywriting salaries and that the more specialized and technical knowledge the position requires, the higher the salary is likely to be.

What should I expect in a technical writer interview?

So, you have gotten a shot at a technical writing job. What should you expect in the technical writer interview? As with any interview, it is important to be professional and prepared. Since writers are expected to have superior research and communications skills, these are two areas where you must shine. Some tips for preparing for your technical writing interview: 

• Learn as much as you can about the company and position before you go for your interview. This will allow you to tailor your answers and to appear interested and knowledgeable.
• Take samples. Even if this is your first technical writing position, it is important to put together a portfolio of writing samples. Make them as relevant as possible; perhaps you have done an article or essay on the topic in question? If you feel your portfolio is a bit thin, your time may be well spent preparing some custom samples to take with you.
• Prepare examples of relevant skills. You will surely be asked what you have done that is similar to the position in question. If you have not done technical writing, what makes you sure you will shine? Come up with examples that will demonstrate your prowess in learning new things, especially in the technical or scientific arenas. Do you have experience in programming, engineering or science? All of these things may be relevant.

 In most cases, you will not be asked to do any writing during your interview. However, do not be surprised if they request a short writing test or ask you to follow up with a custom sample.

I want to offer technical writer services. How should I get started?  

Read more about technical writing:

How to get started in freelance writing

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