Technical Writer

National Occupation Classification Code: 5121.2

NEED TO KNOW:

What are the main duties of a Technical Writer in Alberta?

Technical Writers produce information for audiences ranging from novices to technical experts.

Typical duties include:

� Documenting the specifications, design, features and operation of applications
� Writing, editing user manuals, help systems and other technical documents
� Designing and formatting documents using document-creation software
� Interviewing applications developers and other technical resource personnel to ensure the accuracy of all information presented
� Analyze how to structure and format information to meet target audience needs
� Rewrite and edit drafts after they have been reviewed by technical experts for accuracy
� Research subjects by analyzing reference materials (e.g. specifications, blueprints, diagrams, maintenance manuals, reports, studies), consulting

What are the requirements to work as a Technical Writer in Alberta?

There are no standard education requirements for

� A good grasp of grammar and the ability to express ideas clearly in writing
� Some knowledge of technology
� Research, interviewing and analytical skills
� Editing and proofreading skills

Post-secondary institutions throughout Alberta offer communications-related courses as part of certificate, diploma and degree programs offered full-time, part-time and by distance education. The following institutions offer programs specifically related to technical

� Grant MacEwan College in Edmonton offers a two year diploma exit program and a four year Bachelor of Applied Communications in Professional Writing degree program.
� Mount Royal College in Calgary offers a four year Bachelor of Applied Communications degree program with a specialization in technical communication.

Technical Writers must keep their skills and knowledge up to date through professional development activities such as taking continuing education courses, attending workshops and conferences, reading and communicating with others in

What kind of skills and experience do employers expect in a Technical Writer?

Technical Writers must possess the ability to communicate complex information clearly and concisely. They need excellent interpersonal skills in order to elicit detailed facts from subject-matter experts (such as Applications Developers) in addition to advanced writing and editing skills. Technical Writers also need to be adept in document-creation applications such as Adobe FrameMaker, Acrobat, Microsoft Word and PowerPoint. Employer�s requirements vary depending on the complexity of documentation needed but usually include a bachelor�s degree in English, journalism or information sciences plus several years of experience in a technical setting.

Technical Writers may be employed full-time, part-time or on a contract basis by public organizations or

� Software development companies, Internet design firms and multimedia content providers
� Publishers
� Corporate communications and human resource departments
� Manufacturing firms
� Construction companies and safety organizations
� Research laboratories
� Oil and gas companies
� Military contractors
� Educational institutions
� Government departments
� Pharmaceutical companies

Over 2,450 Albertans are employed in the Authors and Writers occupational group which is expected to grow 1.0 to 2.0 per cent each year from 2005 to 2010 in Alberta. It is forecasted that 20 to 50 new positions will be created each year in addition to job openings created by employment turnover.

What kind of salary information can I utilize to help me with my job search?

According to the 2005 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey, Albertans in the Authors and Writers occupational group working part-time or full-time earned from $15,300 to $85,400 a year. The average salary was $42,600 a year.

 What kinds of associations represent Technical Writer�s in Alberta?

Society for Technical Communication (STC), Alberta Chapter