Technical Writer

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Work Tasks

• Write about scientific and technical information in a way that makes it easy to understand
• Write parts lists, instructions for putting things together, maintenance manuals, and catalogs, etc.
• Research, write, and edit information
• Decide where drawings and charts should be added
• Work in offices or labs for companies that make computers, electronic equipment, computer software, aircraft, etc.
• Work with photographs, drawings, charts, illustrations, technical reports, drafts of writings, computers, desktop and electronic publishing systems, product samples they are writing about, proposals, manuals, catalogs, parts lists, reports, briefs, instruction materials, advertising copy, and blueprints

Salary, Size & Growth

• $65,000 average per year ($31.25 per hour)
• A medium occupation (44,000 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (1.8% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: A 2-year degree in liberal arts, communications, journalism, or English
• Employers Prefer: A 4-year degree in a specialized field such as engineering, business, or one of the sciences
• Skills/Courses: College courses include communications, English, liberal arts, and journalism.