Technical Writer

• Consult with design and production staff; observe manufacturing or experimentation processes
• Determine the needs of technical documentation users; select appropriate tone and medium
• Organise information and complete assignments according to writing standards and company guidelines
• Maintain files of work and revisions
• Create or select photographs, diagrams, charts and other illustrations to enhance documentation
• Edit, improve and standardise contributions from other writers and personnel
• Collaborate with technical staff to make products and instructions easier to use
• Collect user feedback to improve or add to documentation
• Track developments in production and industry to evaluate need for updating existing materials
• Assist in layouts for publication and facilitate distribution to users,/li>
• Create and maintain online help indexes, FAQs and other product information

Technical writers may begin as specialists or research assistants in a particular field. Excelling at communication skills can help you progress to a primary role as technical writer for that department or the entire organisation. Other writers begin at an entry-level job, receive training, and eventually gain enough experience to helm their own projects.

Specialised education in your field and certification can help you land better jobs or advance in your current one. Experienced technical writers typically move up to more complex projects and supervisory roles. Larger companies may offer better opportunities to advance and work on more lucrative projects.

Freelance writers often work on a greater variety of assignments and have more control over their schedule and workload. Quality results can lead to repeat business from clients as well as referrals.