The technical writer occupation is one of the top occupations statewide in terms of growth and projected demand. Despite this it is one of those occupations that many of us have little idea of what they do.
Essentially the task of the technical writer is to put difficult technical information into easily understandable language or alternatively in a highly specialized language for experts. They may develop assembly instructions, articles, brochures, catalogs, maintenance manuals, on-line documentation, sales promotion materials, training manuals, and computer tutorials.
The number of persons working as technical writers statewide is estimated at 3,034 in 2002. This is projected to rise to 3,989 by 2012, which amounts to a strong average annual increase of 2.6 percent. It is expected that during this period there will be between 202 and 235 openings each year. New entrants into the field earned an estimated $20.90 on average, while experienced workers averaged $36.32 per hour in 2003.
While the outlook is good for this occupation there is still a certain amount of former workers who have filed for unemployment insurance (UI) in Washington, typically those between jobs or seeking a career in another field. In 2003, UI claimants were fairly closely divided in gender terms with about 54 percent of claimants being male and 46 percent female. However, it was predominantly white (85 percent). Asians had the largest representation among minorities, comprising a little over four percent of claimants.
The quickening pace of scientific and technological discoveries will play a role in the outlook for technical writers in the next ten years. The increasing choices faced by consumers of high-tech and electronic devices have driven and will continue to drive demand for explanatory materials to accompany them. In all likelihood the most demand will be for writers that have specific knowledge in a given field.
If you are interested in this field, coursework in communications, engineering, journalism, and study in the specific field or industry of interest is recommended. A four-year degree in one of the previously mentioned fields or a degree/certification in technical writing is a prerequisite for many employers. Computer literacy with desktop publishing and graphics are an asset if not a requirement for work as a technical writer.
| Est. Emp. 2002 |
Est. Emp. 2012 |
Avg. Annual Growth 2002-2012 |
Avg. Annual Total Openings 2002-2007 |
Avg. Annual Total Openings 2007-2012 |
2003 Mean Wage |
2003 Mean Entry Wage |
2003 Mean Experienced Wage |
| 3,034 |
3,989 |
2.6% |
202 |
235 |
$31.18 |
$20.90 |
$36.32 |
|
2003 Statewide UI Continuing Claims Data |
| |
|
|
Total |
|
|
|
|
| Total |
Female |
White |
Minority |
Black |
Hispanic |
Native |
Asian |
| 580 |
265 |
491 |
44 |
7 |
6 |
6 |
25 | | 
