Technical author

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• applying directly
• completing specialised training courses

University

You'll usually need a degree or postgraduate qualification in a subject like:

• science
• computing
• journalism
• engineering
• telecommunications
• pharmaceuticals

You can do technical or science communication and writing courses at postgraduate level.

Entry requirements:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

Entry requirements:

Entry requirements:

DirectApplication

You can apply to companies directly. Employers will expect you to have in-depth industry knowledge and experience of writing and editing in their sector.

You'll need to show you can research and interpret complex information and communicate it clearly. You'll also need to know about:

• content planning and strategy
• writing to brand style or other guidelines
• user behaviour - how people read and absorb information
• project management

OtherRoutes

You may be able to find work after doing short, specialised training courses in:

• content planning
• writing styles
• quality assurance
• costing
• project management

The Institute of Scientific and Technical Communicators may have details of short courses like these and how to find them.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Skills:

• knowledge of English language
• excellent written communication skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of media production and communication
• thinking and reasoning skills
• administration skills
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• the ability to use your initiative
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to read English
• the ability to work well with others
• ambition and a desire to succeed
• persistence and determination
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• active listening skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
• the ability to learn through your work
• concentration skills
• the ability to work well with your hands

What you'll do:

Technical authors write documents and guides that explain how to use products and services.

In your day-to-day duties you could:

• collect and edit complex information
• produce new documents like manuals and instructions
• update or rewrite existing documents
• commission photographs or illustrations
• work on digital or multi-channel content like blogs, e-learning or podcasts
• test what you've written with content users

Location : You could work in an office or from home.

Salary:

Starter : £20,000
Experienced : £50,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

37 - 39 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends occasionally

Career Path:

With experience, you could become a technical author for a larger organisation, or move into technical editing.

You could move into supervisory or management roles or work as a freelance consultant.