Working as a freelance technical writer can be a very lucrative profession. According to a report by the Society for Technical Communication (STC) published in 2003, the salary range for a technical writer/editor was $46,080 to $67,120. This range is for full time technical writing jobs but the opportunity for a freelance technical writer who is a successful technical communicator with top-notch skills is excellent.
Technical Writing Jobs – Skills
What skills are needed to get started as a freelance technical writer? A short list of the skills needed for technical writing editing jobs is:
- Writing skills
- Experience
- Computer skills
- Editing and proofreading skills
- Product or industry knowledge
- Self management skills
These skills will furnish a start for freelancing and landing some technical writing jobs, but they are just a start. Supplement these skills by joining professional groups like the STC and stay current with peers. Upgrade skills by taking online distance learning classes, particularly in the area of computer skills, search engine optimization (SEO), and technical expertise. The computer industry is volatile and ever-advancing. Cutting-edge knowledge is crucial to maintaining a competitive edge when vying for lucrative technical writing jobs.
Finding Technical Writing Jobs
Suppose you have the writing skill but lack experience or a portfolio to show prospective employers? There are many ways to get a foot-in-the door as a freelance technical writer in entry-level positions. These technical writing jobs furnish a source of income while building a freelance technical writer portfolio. More importantly, many of these entry level technical writing jobs build a steady client base of customers and open the door to higher paying freelancing opportunities.
Two reputable sites offering upfront payments plus residual income opportunities for an aspiring freelance technical writer are Bright Hub and Wise Geek. Both sites require potential technical writers to submit a writing sample demonstrating knowledge of how-to-write for technical writing jobs. While the upfront payments are not huge, being published online gives credibility and starts the portfolio building process.
Technical Writing Jobs - Industries
What types of industries employ a freelance technical writer? Freelance technical writing and editing jobs can be found in industries like:
- Transportation
- Manufacturing
- Computers: Software, hardware, and training
- Telecommunications
- Engineering
- Construction
- Government
- Medical
- Education
- Environment
- Marketing, broadcasting, and advertising
- Science
- Technology – biotech and aerospace
As the need for updated information grows in this increasingly technological world, so does the need for skilled individuals to provide freelance technical writing. Textbooks, product brochures and manuals, magazine articles, and even radio and television segments need technical writers. The freelance technical writer who can produce quality content on-demand and meet deadlines finds a wealth of technical writing opportunities.
Freelancing as a Technical Writer
Freelancing in the field of technical writing editing is rewarding. Here are a few of the frequently asked questions by those considering a job as a freelance technical writer:
- What rights to the material are sold and what rights are retained?
- Will the writing appear under a byline or is it ghostwriting?
- Will this be a one-time payment or will there be ongoing residual income?
- What happens if the client is not satisfied or will not accept a job?
- Will pay be hourly or flat-rate?
- What type of contract is needed for technical writing jobs?
- How will payment be made, and when?
There is money to be made with technical writing jobs. While it may be necessary to start at the bottom and work up, the financial rewards are great.
Sources:
United States Department of Labor, Occupational Employment Statistics, accessed 02/07/2010
Society for Technical Communication
Donna Cosmato - Donna is a Certified Image Consultant, author and public speaker, whose first book Buying Your First Home? will be available in bookstores ...
