Career: Technical Writer
National Average Salary Range: $42,187-$70,416
Basic Qualifications:
- Associate, Bachelor’s, or Master’s in English, Linguistics, Computer Science, Engineering, Chemistry, or another depending upon the subject matter.
- Completion of a Professional or Technical Writing certificate from an accredited institution
- Interest and knowledge in the specific technical field
- Ability to transfer complex thoughts to logical, simple prose
- Usually 1-4 years experience in technical writing
The well-rounded English aficionado who is intrigued by the way things work might look into technical writing, the science tutor of writing careers.
Technical writing is the conveyance of complex information into an easy to read format. While most technical writing involves processing the information into a manual or how-to format, it can also include any writing that deals objectively with scientific, technological, or governmental subject matter, including scholarly journal entries. This can be highly satisfactory for the intellectual that enjoys learning about and explaining new technologies to others.
Another benefit of technical writing is the future potential to being able to work from home (although most technical writers begin within a specific company to build their skills and establish a personal client base). This gives the writer more freedom to create their own schedule and pursue other avenues of interest.
The largest deficit for the aspiring technical writer is overcoming the seemingly universal 1-4 years experience required on applications. Internships are one option for gaining experience, however, they can be intensive and are not always paying (which is difficult if you need an income). The surest way to get a company to take the risk of hiring someone with no experience is to get in through a personal connection or through the resources of a college institution.
Where to begin?
The key to technical writing is becoming familiar with the specific format and language of the job.
One way to do this is to take a beginners class in technical writing (San Diego State offers classes) to get a better feel for the style. Some colleges also offer Master’s programs in Technical and Scientific Communication, many of which can be taken online.
For those that don’t have much more on the resume than an English degree and an uncanny knack for assembling IKEA furniture, below is some computer software with which one would benefit to become better acquainted.
Technical Qualifications and Key Programs:
- Adobe products (Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat Pro)
- Microsoft products (Visio, MS Project, MS Office)
- FrameMaker
- Object Oriented Web development
It is important to maintain a perseverance in applications while building ones expertise in the field. San Diego particularly has opportunities for technical writing in the aerospace, military, and health sectors. It is a good idea to contact companies that deal with manufacturing directly to inquire about potential openings.
More information on technical writing jobs and qualifications can be found at TechnicalWritingAid.com
For a basic overview of writing careers Writers & Others Who Have a Way with Words by Robert Bly is a good read.
C.B. James Writing 