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The differences between science writers and technical editors can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 1-2 years to become a science writer, becoming a technical editor takes usually requires 2-4 years. Additionally, a science writer has an average salary of $69,214, which is higher than the $61,717 average annual salary of a technical editor.
The top three skills for a science writer include biomedical, NIH and scientific content. The most important skills for a technical editor are powerpoint, english language, and proofreading.
| Science Writer | Technical Editor | |
| Yearly salary | $69,214 | $61,717 |
| Hourly rate | $33.28 | $29.67 |
| Growth rate | 6% | -5% |
| Number of jobs | 20,214 | 78,423 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 67% | Bachelor's Degree, 76% |
| Average age | 46 | 44 |
| Years of experience | 2 | 4 |
A science writer specializes in producing written materials that aim to inform and educate. There are many employment opportunities for a science writer, such as in publishing, education, film and TV, and government agencies. Although their duties vary on their place of employment, it typically includes conducting studies and scientific research, observing subjects and gathering samples, coordinating with experts, and collecting evidence. They must also produce content while adhering to deadlines and guidelines, including the employer's policies and regulations.
A technical editor is someone who proofreads, revises, and edits technical documents. He/She or she checks for grammar, punctuation, and style to ensure that the technical content meets company standards. Some of the qualifications to become a technical editor include knowledge of technical concepts, prior experience in print or online publishing, a keen eye for details, and strong verbal and written communication skills. Someone having a bachelor's degree in English or journalism could qualify for the position.
Science writers and technical editors have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Science Writer | Technical Editor | |
| Average salary | $69,214 | $61,717 |
| Salary range | Between $43,000 And $110,000 | Between $47,000 And $80,000 |
| Highest paying City | Washington, DC | Oakland, CA |
| Highest paying state | California | Connecticut |
| Best paying company | Fred Hutch | Apple |
| Best paying industry | Technology | Technology |
There are a few differences between a science writer and a technical editor in terms of educational background:
| Science Writer | Technical Editor | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 67% | Bachelor's Degree, 76% |
| Most common major | Biology | English |
| Most common college | Northwestern University | Northwestern University |
Here are the differences between science writers' and technical editors' demographics:
| Science Writer | Technical Editor | |
| Average age | 46 | 44 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 37.4% Female, 62.6% | Male, 42.6% Female, 57.4% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 6.7% Unknown, 5.0% Hispanic or Latino, 7.9% Asian, 8.8% White, 71.3% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.4% | Black or African American, 3.6% Unknown, 4.6% Hispanic or Latino, 8.2% Asian, 7.3% White, 76.1% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.3% |
| LGBT Percentage | 11% | 12% |