Technical Writer Job Description: Skills, Responsibilities and More

Technical writers transform complex information into clear, accessible content that empowers teams and users. With demand for these professionals growing at an annual rate of about 4%, technical writing has become an invaluable asset across industries, from software and electronics to finance and pharmaceuticals.  

Although AI has introduced new tools into the content creation process, skilled technical writers remain vital for their nuanced understanding of how to make content relatable to other humans. They may use this skill to create product manuals, software documentation, how-to guides or internal process documents. By working closely with engineers, developers and key stakeholders, technical writers produce accurate content that’s easy to understand. In this article, we provide a comprehensive overview of the technical writer role, highlighting primary responsibilities, required skills, qualifications and career outlook insights.  

What Does a Technical Writer Do? 

Technical writers are responsible for translating complex information into clear, concise content. By simplifying intricate details, they make sure users, clients and internal teams can understand pertinent information. Some of their main responsibilities include developing documentation that clarifies product features and benefits, implementing content strategies for new products, and editing written materials to make sure all information is accessible. Technical writers often collaborate with developers, engineers, product managers, and other subject matter experts (SMEs) to create accurate user manuals, how-to guides, FAQs, and online help systems. Let’s take a closer look at some of their primary job duties: 

• Research and content development: Technical writers gather in-depth information about products, services, and processes to write clear, engaging documents tailored to different audiences. They may also incorporate visual aids like diagrams, charts, and infographics to improve comprehension. 
• Collaborating and conducting reviews: It’s common for technical writers to attend product development meetings to stay informed about important updates. They may also interview experts, conduct user testing to identify areas for improvement, and review existing documents to make sure they align with company standards. 
• Editing and quality assurance: Technical writers edit and proofread to maintain a high level of accuracy, readability, and consistency. They also make sure the content they produce adheres to style guides and brand rules. Technical writers may manage multiple projects simultaneously, troubleshooting any formatting or technical issues, and auditing documentation for accuracy.  
• Maintenance and routine updates: As products and processes evolve, technical writers may need to continue updating existing documentation and plan future projects to support company goals. These professionals may also prepare press release notes to communicate new features, fixes, and enhancements. 

Technical Writer Qualifications and Skills (Education, Experience, Certifications and Licensing Requirements) 

In addition to being able to translate complex information into clear, user-friendly documentation, top technical writer candidates will have a robust combination of education, experience and specialized skills. Here’s what to look for when reviewing applicants. 

Education 

Successful technical writers usually have a bachelor’s degree in English, communications, journalism or a related field. Some roles may benefit from a background in tech, such as computer science, engineering or information systems.  

Experience 

Look for candidates with two to five years of experience in technical writing or a related area with experience producing user manuals, guides and product specifications. Familiarity with industry-standard documentation practices, a track record of collaborating with subject matter experts and an understanding of user-centered design principles may also be helpful.  

Skills 

Technical writers require a mix of soft and hard skills to excel at their work, including: 

• Strong writing, editing and research skills to convey technical information concisely and accurately 
• Proficiency in documentation software and knowledge of markup languages, such as HTML and XML 
• Analytical abilities to break down complex processes and product functionalities 
• Excellent interpersonal skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams 
• Attention to detail with a strong commitment to producing error-free and consistent documentation 

Certifications 

While not absolutely necessary, additional certifications can show that a candidate has the desire to continue learning and honing their craft. Here are some technical writing certifications to look for: 

• Certified Professional Technical Communicator (CPTC): This credential signifies proficiency in core technical writing competencies.  
• Adobe Certified Expert (ACE): This certification demonstrates mastery of Adobe products frequently used in technical writing, such as Adobe FrameMaker, InDesign and Acrobat.  

Technical Writer Potential Projects 

Technical writers work on a diverse range of assignments. Here are some of the projects that may fall under technical communication roles: 

• User manuals 
• API documentation 
• Online help systems and knowledge bases 
• Training materials and e-learning content 
• White papers and technical reports 
• Standard operating procedures 
• Product specifications and data sheets 
• Troubleshooting guides and FAQs 
• Release notes and product updates 
• Technical marketing materials 
• AI-integrated documentation 

Technical Writer Salary Expectations 

Compensation for technical writers is competitive, with a median annual salary of $80,050 and earnings typically between $67,000 and $115,000 per year. However, salaries may vary significantly based on experience and location. Higher-paying regions, such as San Francisco, offer annual averages around $105,000 due to increased demand and cost of living. With an estimated 4% growth rate from 2023 to 2033, the demand for skilled professionals in this field continues to expand.  

Technical Writer Work Hours and Benefits 

Professionals with a technical writing career typically work standard full-time hours, which is approximately 40 hours per week. However, flexible schedules and remote work options are increasingly common, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. Some of the most common benefits for technical writers include: 

• Health, dental and vision insurance 
• Retirement plans 
• Paid time off  
• Professional development 
• Career advancement 
• Flexible work arrangements 
• Geographic flexibility 

Hire Technical Writers Today 

Now that you know what types of skills, responsibilities and qualifications to include in a professional technical writer job description, let’s wrap things up with a few key takeaways: 

• Define role requirements. Clearly outline the skills, experience and certifications you desire.  
• Describe specific projects. This gives candidates a better idea of what type of work they will be doing if hired. 
• Provide competitive benefits. Focus on remote work options, flexible hours, and professional development opportunities. 
• Offer an appropriate salary range. Research industry salaries in your geographic region to align your offer with market standards. 

If you’re looking to hire qualified technical writers, explore Dice’s hiring solutions to connect with top talent who can support your tech team’s documentation needs.