Technical Writer
Technical writers create content for printed and online media, such as user guides, manuals, intranet and website pages, and present it in a way that can be easily accessed and understood.
This profile is abridged from the CareersNZ website
Visit CareersNZ for the detailed profile
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Pay per yearGraduate Senior |
Job opportunitiesGood |
What you'll do
Technical writers may do some or all of the following:
- work with managers, developers, users and others to identify their information needs
- plan, research and create clear, accurate content such as instructions, standard operating procedures, forms and policies
- create content in various forms such as video, web, audio, hard copy and interactive eLearning
- analyse work tasks and manage documentation projects
- design the layout and structure of documents
- create language and style guides
- design and draw business, scientific or technical diagrams
- edit other writer's work for consistency and clarity
- test content for its usability
- manage translations.
Entry requirements
There are no specific entry requirements to become a technical writer. However, excellent writing skills are required and most employers look for people with a tertiary qualification such as an English degree or certificate in technical communication.
Tertiary qualifications in subjects such as science, engineering, electronics, computer science or commerce are valuable for technical writers in industries where this subject knowledge is required.
For more information about your study options see: Areas of specialisation: Business
Personal requirements
Technical writers need to be:
- excellent communicators, both in writing and orally
- quick learners
- approachable, and able to relate to a wide variety of people
- good at planning, time management and project management
- methodical, persistent and determined.
What are the chances of getting a job?
Demand for technical writers is strong due to:
- companies and organisations needing to have properly documented policies, processes and procedures
- the large number of computer software products and electronic products that need easy-to-understand documentation
- growing intranet and internet use, which has created more job opportunities for people with technical writing skills
- growing recognition of the value of clear and concise information, especially online.
Your chances of securing a job are best if you join a professional organisation such as TechCommNZ, create wide networks, and build up a good reputation.
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This information is a guide only. Last updated 27 March 2024.