Technical Writer

Technical writers produce information for audiences ranging from novices to technical experts. In general, they:

• research subjects by analyzing reference materials (for example, specifications, blueprints, diagrams, maintenance manuals, reports, studies), consulting experts and using products themselves
• gather information about target audience needs and analyze how to structure and format information to meet those needs
• prepare a documentation plan for each document for monitoring progress and reporting
• select appropriate technology and media to deliver technical information
• create, follow and enforce the use of consistent style and formatting by developing a house style guide
• write content for online help files, reference materials, educational materials, procedural and policy manuals, user guides, proposals, technical reports and instructional materials that explain the installation, operation and maintenance of mechanical, electronic and other equipment (for example, oil industry equipment or computer applications)
• engage subject matter experts for the duration of the project, especially highly complex subject matter
• create auxiliary resources such as diagrams or interactive learning processes if required
• rewrite and edit drafts after they have been reviewed by technical experts for accuracy
• test products (especially software and hardware)
• manage documentation projects, including translation and localization if required.

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

Technical writers employed by medium-sized or large organizations generally work standard office hours.Overtime sometimes is required to meet deadlines. Contract writers working from home can set their own hours but must be prepared to work long hours when required to complete projects on time. However, many contract writers are required to work in offices during normal business hours. The pressure associated with having to meet deadlines can be stressful.

Technical writers need the following characteristics:

• the ability to communicate and work effectively with a variety of people (for example, engineers, educators, publishers, editors, art directors, film producers, readers of varying ability)
• adaptability and flexibility
• the ability to pay close attention to detail
• an interest in new communications technologies, particularly those involving multimedia and the Internet
• the ability to analyze and think critically
• the ability to deal with and learn from criticism
• the ability to handle multiple requests during high-pressure periods
• strong organizational, time management and project management skills.

They should enjoy gathering and synthesizing information, taking a methodical approach to explaining procedures and finding out how things are built and operate.

Technical writers may be employed full time, part time or on a contract basis by 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
• manufacturing firms
• construction companies and safety organizations
• research laboratories
• oil and gas companies
• military contractors
• government departments and not-for-profit organizations
• medical technology firms
• insurance companies
• pharmaceutical companies.

Experienced technical writers may advance to supervisory or management positions. Those who have the required knowledge and skills may move into a related occupation (for more information see 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
• Professional, Scientific and Technical Services
• Public Administration.

The employment outlook 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: www.albertaict.ca

For more information on career planning, education and jobs, visit the Alberta Learning Information Service (ALIS) website, call the Alberta Career Information Hotline toll-free at 1-800-661-3753 or 780-422-4266 in Edmonton, or visit an Alberta Works Centre near you.