Technical Writer Job Description

Technical writing is the process of creating documentation that explains how to effectively use and understand products, software, or processes. Technical writers produce instruction manuals, user guides, online help systems, training materials, and other documents optimized for comprehension and usability.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average salary for technical writers in the United States is $75,650 annually. However, salaries can vary significantly based on factors like years of experience, industry, and geographic location. 

The demand for qualified technical writers continues to grow as companies rely more on quality documentation to support their technical products and services.

Technical Writing Job Description Template

When hiring a technical writer, having a well-crafted job description is crucial to attract qualified candidates. 

A good technical writer job description template highlights the core duties and responsibilities of the role, required qualifications and skills, and education/experience requirements. It gives potential applicants a clear overview of the technical writing position and expectations.

Key sections to include are an overview, essential job functions, requirements/skills, and education/experience. 

• The overview provides high-level details about the role. 
• The job functions outline the core technical writing responsibilities like creating user guides, collaborating with teams, writing instructions, and more. 
• The requirements and skills section lists key competencies needed, like writing abilities, technical aptitude, tool proficiency, etc. Finally, the education and experience section outlines the academic and professional backgrounds required or preferred for the position.  

Here is a sample technical writer job template that employers can customize for their specific needs:

Overview 

We are seeking a Technical Writer to produce high-quality documentation for our [software, products, services, etc]. You will collaborate with internal engineering, product management, and QA teams to understand our offerings and documentation requirements.

Responsibilities

• Create user manuals, tutorials, FAQs, online help, training materials, and other documentation for end users
• Work closely with subject matter experts and technical staff to gain comprehensive understanding of products
• Write clear, easy-to-understand instructions and explanations of complex technical information and software
• Develop information architecture, templates, style guides to optimize structure and presentation of content
• Ensure documentation meets standards and is appropriate for the intended audience
• Create visual elements like screenshots and diagrams to enhance user experience
• Use expertise in technical concepts to explain topics accurately for non-technical audiences
• Stay current on trends and best practices in technical communication and content design

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Technical Communication, English, Computer Science, or related field
• 2+ years of professional technical writing experience producing deliverables like user guides
• Excellent written English skills and ability to explain complex technical information simply
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite and documentation tools like Adobe FrameMaker
• Technical expertise in software development, IT systems, or related technical field
• Strong collaboration skills and ability to work in cross-functional agile teams
• Attention to detail and problem-solving skills

This template can be customized with details on technologies used, documentation types produced, subject matter expertise needed, and other company-specific information critical for technical writer job openings. With some modification, you can use it to attract top talent for technical writing roles.