Write technical materials, such as equipment manuals, appendices, or operating and maintenance instructions. May assist in layout work.
SOC: 27-3042.00
Common Job Titles
Documentation Specialist
Information Developer
Technical Communicator
Technical Writer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeCompose technical documentation including equipment manuals, operating instructions, and maintenance procedures using specialized authoring tools and content management systems while adhering to industry style standards.
Advanced
KnowledgeDesign information architecture and content structures for multi-platform documentation delivery using structured authoring methodologies such as DITA and XML frameworks.
Advanced
KnowledgeAnalyze complex technical information from subject matter experts and engineering specifications to extract key concepts and translate them into clear, user-focused documentation.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate existing documentation for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with organizational standards performing quality control reviews across multiple document types and delivery formats.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret technical specifications, engineering drawings, and software system architectures collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure accurate representation of product functionality.
Proficient
KnowledgeOrganize multiple concurrent documentation projects with competing deadlines independently managing priorities and coordinating with development cycles using project management tools.
Proficient
KnowledgeSynthesize information from disparate technical sources into cohesive procedural and conceptual content ensuring logical flow and appropriate technical depth for target audiences ranging from novice to expert users.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply desktop publishing and graphic design principles creating visually effective documentation layouts using Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft Office tools.
Developing
MindsetEngage with engineers, product managers, and end users conducting interviews and gathering requirements to ensure documentation meets diverse stakeholder needs.
Developing
Hands-onOperate content management systems, version control software, and collaborative platforms including GitHub, Atlassian Confluence, and SharePoint to maintain documentation repositories.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Technical Writers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
55,530
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $54,400. 25th percentile: U.S. $68,640. 50th percentile: U.S. $91,670. 75th percentile: U.S. $102,740. 90th percentile: U.S. $130,430. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$54,400
10% of workers earn the following or more
$130,430
Workers on average earn
$92,330
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
English Language4.8/5
Computers and Electronics4.3/5
Administrative3.8/5
Communications and Media3.3/5
Administration and Management3.2/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
