Summary
Quick Facts: Technical Writers | |
---|---|
$65,500 per year
$31.49 per hour |
|
Bachelor’s degree | |
Less than 5 years | |
Short-term on-the-job training | |
49,500 | |
15% (Faster than average) | |
7,400 |
What Technical Writers Do
Technical writers, also called technical communicators, prepare instruction manuals, journal articles, and other supporting documents to communicate complex and technical information more easily. They also develop, gather, and disseminate technical information among customers, designers, and manufacturers.
Work Environment
Most technical writers work full time in offices. Although technical writers work in a variety of industries, they are concentrated in the computer and engineering industries.
How to Become a Technical Writer
A college degree is usually required for a position as a technical writer. In addition, experience with a technical subject, such as computer science, Web design, or engineering, is important.
Pay
The median annual wage for technical writers was $65,500 in May 2012.
Job Outlook
Employment of technical writers is projected to grow 15 percent from 2012 to 2022, faster than the average for all occupations. Employment growth will be driven by the continuing expansion of scientific and technical products and by growth in Web-based product support. Job opportunities, especially for applicants with technical skills, are expected to be good.
Similar Occupations
Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of technical writers with similar occupations.
More Information, Including Links to O*NET
Learn more about technical writers by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.