Technical writing is one of the most important jobs within the modern space today. More than ever before, we are introduced to news services, gadgets, tools, and other technology that is regularly evolving.
What this means is that people will always need some content to read in order to remain updated as to how all of it is tied together and how it operates. This is where technical content writers fit into the big picture, as their primary objective is to analyze data and package it into content that is easy to read, digest, and utilize in real-world use cases.
However, the question for everyone looking to hire a freelance technical writer or become one, is how much money do they actually make?
The Role of a Technical Content Writer
A technical writer is a professional who is capable of creating written documentation surrounding technical products or services. They are responsible for the procedure of creating user manuals, product specifications, installation guides, or anything else that requires technical documents. These documents aid users in understanding and using complex products or technologies.
Each technical writer typically works with engineers or developers to collect as much information as possible for the creation of accurate and user-friendly documentation. Understanding how technical writing is used is key to understanding the hourly or annual wages technical writers make.
Getting Data
A technical writer essentially transforms any complicated materials, that are otherwise difficult to understand, into a clear and concise document that anyone can grasp.
A technical writer accesses technical information to create maintenance, operating instructions, and new content that’s comprehensive to the average reader.
Planning and Organizing the Strategy
The technical content writer plans out the structure as well as the content of the documentation. This includes the creation of an outline and the organization of information in a way that makes sense to a wider audience.
Writing and Editing the Content
They then write clear and concise documentation using language that is easy for users to understand. They edit and revise documents in order to ensure a higher level of accuracy.
Designing Visual Elements to Enhance the Experience
The technical content writer can also create visual elements within their content. This includes the lines of illustrations, tables, diagrams, charts, and more. Using visuals simplifies technical concepts and promotes comprehension.
Reviewing and Testing the Content
The technical writer will then review the documents for accuracy, completeness, and usability. They can test the documentation with clients or focus groups to ensure that it meets their needs and is indeed user-friendly.
Updating Any Documentation
Technical content writers also regularly update the documentation to reflect changes within the product, the technology, or the overall service.
Adapting to Different Needs
Depending on the complexity of the documentation, there are different focuses and scopes. There’s the basic level, which involves writing and editing content. There’s a middle level, which involves the designing of content, workflows, and tooling. The advanced level requires an outsourced documentation team.
Understanding the Technical Content Writer Salary
Technical writers juggle several responsibilities and are required to quickly become experts in the products they write about. Technical documentation requires thorough research, communication, and active writing labor.
The writer needs to have excellent language, writing, and communication skills. The writer strives towards the creation of professional documents which have no errors. They are required to carry out extensive research in order to create documents that are informative and user-friendly.
With all of this in mind, the average hourly wage of a technical content writer can range between $20 to $40 per hour, depending on their overall level of experience. The annual salary can range from $48,000 to $78,000.
With this in mind, it is important to understand all of the fundamental aspects that go into the position at any company and why it is mandatory for technical content writers to commit as much time as possible towards creating authentic documentation which is simple to understand.
Anyone interested in hiring experienced technical content writers can do so on Guru, where anyone can easily hire a freelance technical writer. Guru hosts freelancing professionals, connecting them to businesses looking for fresh perspective or expert aid. Take your business’ communication to the next level with a writer from Guru!
