Technical Documentation Specialist Job Description and Responsibilities
Technical documentation specialists write manuals,
operating instructions, and other documents for computer hardware and software.
These professionals are sometimes referred to as technical writers. They may
also prepare copy for computer or software catalogs, sales promotion material,
advertising, and marketing campaigns.
Technical documentation specialists have varied duties
depending on the specific job. Their main function, however, is to take hard-
to-understand jargon and turn it into everyday, understandable language.
They collaborate with programmers, engineers, and other
technical people to learn everything there is to know about the software
program. The individual might also do research to learn more about the specific
subject of the program. Having extensive knowledge of the subject will make it
easier to prepare documentation.
Next is the actual writing of the documentation or
users' manual. Most manuals offer explanations about what the program can
accomplish and then provide step-by-step instructions on how to use the
program. Similar functions are required when writing users' manuals for
printers, modems, scanners, and other peripheral equipment.
Computer software usage can be either extremely easy Or
very difficult, depending on the skills of the technical documentation
specialist. It is essential that the specialist writes so that the general
public can not only read it but also understand and make use of the
information.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Technical documentation specialists can work full or
part time in a number of different employment situations including:
Hardware manufacturers, Software developers and manufacturers, Self-employment and
Book publishers
Expanding Opportunities
for the 21st Century
The need for technical documentation specialists will
increase as additional companies emerge with new software programs. Individuals
who have writing skills as well as technical knowledge in both computer usage
and other specialty subjects will be especially in demand.
EARNINGS
Annual earnings of technical documentation specialists
can range between $24,000 and $65,000 plus. Factors affecting earnings include
the specific employment setting and geographic location as well as the
experience, education, technical knowledge, and responsibilities of the
individual.
ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Technical documentation specialists can advance their
careers in a number of ways. They can move into positions in other areas of the
computer company such as advertising or marketing. Other documentation
specialists search out companies that are larger or more prestigious and offer
increased earnings and responsibilities. Some individuals become editors of
technical documentation projects, or managers.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
Most employers prefer or require a college degree. Good
choices for majors include liberal arts, computer science, communications, or
English.
EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS
Technical documentation specialists usually need a
degree of writing experience and technical knowledge. Sometimes individuals are
writers who are familiar with computers and programs through personal use. In
other situations, they have worked as programmers or technicians.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Interested
individuals can contact the Society for Technical Communications, Inc. (STC),
the Association of Computer Programmers and Analysts (ACPA), the Association
for Computing Machinery (ACM), or the Microcomputer Software Association (MSA).
TIPS
Get as much writing experience as you can in all areas.
Jobs in this field are often advertised in trade journals
as well as the newspaper classified section under headings including
"Documentation Specialist," "Technical Documentation
Specialist," "Technical Writer," "Software,"
"Hardware," "Writer," or "Freelance."
Send your resume and a short cover letter to software
companies and hardware manufacturers.
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