Technical Writer

In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.

The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:

• 2006 NOC: Technical Writers (5121.2) 
• 2006 NOC-S: Authors and Writers (F021) 
• 2011 NOC: Authors and writers (5121) 
• 2016 NOC: Authors and writers (5121) 

Technical writers produce information for audiences ranging from novices to technical experts. In general, they write online content, reference materials, and educational materials. They write procedural and policy manuals, user guides, and proposals. They also write technical reports and instructional materials. Their work explains the installation, operation, and maintenance of mechanical, electronic, and other equipment. This can include oil industry equipment, computer applications, and other things. Technical writers:

• Research subjects by consulting subject matter experts (SMEs), using products themselves, and analyzing reference materials, such as specifications, blueprints, diagrams, maintenance manuals, reports, and studies
• Gather information about target-audience needs
• Analyze how to structure and format information to meet audience needs
• Prepare a plan to monitor and report on progress in developing each document
• Select appropriate technology and media to deliver technical information
• Use web development, social media, and content management systems to manage content in multiple media environments
• Develop and a house style guide outlining style and formatting, and encourage others to use it consistently
• Create auxiliary resources, such as diagrams or interactive learning processes, if required
• Rewrite and edit drafts after they have been reviewed by SMEs for accuracy
• Test products, especially software and hardware
• Manage documentation projects, including translation and localization, if required
• Learn and apply the best writing style for the intended audience
• Identify the purpose and key elements of the main technical communicator (TC) documentation types
• Correct common mistakes in writing

Technical writers may define terms in glossary format. They may index or cross-reference information. They may obtain copyright permissions to reprint material. They may work independently or as part of a team. The team may include scientists, engineers, computer specialists, management personnel, editors, other writers, illustrators, media specialists, or videographers.

Technical writers who work for mid-sized or large organizations most often work standard office hours. Overtime sometimes is required to meet deadlines. Contract writers working from home can set their own hours. However, they must be prepared for long hours to complete projects on time. Many contract writers are required to work in offices during normal business hours. There can be stress associated with meeting deadlines.

Technical writers need:

• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Adaptability and flexibility
• Attention to detail
• Analytical and critical thinking
• Organizational, time-management, and project-management skills
• The ability to deal with and learn from criticism
• The ability to handle multiple requests during high-pressure periods
• Translation skills and intercultural sensitivity
• The ability to write clearly, such as definitions and procedures
• The ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects and deadlines

They should enjoy gathering and synthesizing information. They should like taking a methodical approach to explaining procedures and finding out how things are built and operate. Understanding their role as technical communicator, including translation skills and intercultural sensitivity, is a definite asset.

Technical writers may be employed full time, part time, or on a contract basis. They may work for public organizations or businesses, such as:

• Software development companies, internet design firms, and multimedia content providers
• Schools and training companies
• Publishers
• Corporate communications and human resource departments
• Agricultural, engineering, and manufacturing firms
• Construction companies and safety organizations
• Research laboratories
• Oil and gas companies
• Military contractors
• Government departments and non-profit organizations
• Medical technology firms
• Insurance companies
• Pharmaceutical companies
• Media and mobile businesses
• Financial institutions

Experienced writers may advance to supervisory or management positions. With the required knowledge and skills, they may move into related occupations. For more information, see the the Instructional Designer, Editor, Graphic Designer, Translator, Interactive Media Programmer, or Training and Development Professional occupational profiles.

Technical writers are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 5121: Authors and writers. In Alberta, 78% of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:

• Information, Culture and Recreation (pdf)
• Professional, Scientific and Technical Services (pdf)
• Public Administration (pdf)

The employment outlook (pdf) in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

• Trends and events affecting overall employment (especially in the industries listed above)
• Location in Alberta
• Employment turnover (work opportunities generated by people leaving existing positions)
• Occupational growth (work opportunities resulting from the creation of new positions that never existed before)
• Size of the occupation

Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.

Society for Technical Communication, Alberta Chapter (STC Alberta) website: www.stc-alberta.org

Technology Alberta website: technologyalberta.com

For more information on career planning, education and jobs call the Alberta Supports Contact Centre toll-free at 1-877-644-9992 or 780-644-9992 in Edmonton, or visit an Alberta Supports Centre near you.