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The differences between specifications writers and managing 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 specifications writer, becoming a managing editor takes usually requires 2-4 years. Additionally, a managing editor has an average salary of $89,060, which is higher than the $72,326 average annual salary of a specifications writer.
The top three skills for a specifications writer include technical specifications, data sheets and leed. The most important skills for a managing editor are web content, editorial content, and SEO.
| Specifications Writer | Managing Editor | |
| Yearly salary | $72,326 | $89,060 |
| Hourly rate | $34.77 | $42.82 |
| Growth rate | 6% | -5% |
| Number of jobs | 15,596 | 16,781 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 63% | Bachelor's Degree, 81% |
| Average age | 46 | 44 |
| Years of experience | 2 | 4 |
A specifications writer specializes in developing and producing written materials that focus on technical descriptions of products, materials, and procedures. Their responsibilities include understanding and interpreting plans and processes, coordinating with engineers and other experts, creating sketches and diagrams, and developing strategies to optimize operations. They must also work together with editors, performing revisions as needed. Furthermore, as a specifications writer, it is essential to maintain an active communication line with staff for a smooth and efficient workflow.
Managing editors are individuals who coordinate and oversee the editorial activities of a publication. They administer the daily operations or a website or publication, such as generating ideas and planning and editing content. Their responsibilities include the recruitment, promotion, and firing of staff members. They even create and implement deadlines. Great managing editors are those who are updated on the latest trends and make informed decisions. They should also be equipped with skills in management and coaching.
Specifications writers and managing editors have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Specifications Writer | Managing Editor | |
| Average salary | $72,326 | $89,060 |
| Salary range | Between $49,000 And $105,000 | Between $59,000 And $132,000 |
| Highest paying City | - | Washington, DC |
| Highest paying state | - | Connecticut |
| Best paying company | - | Federal Reserve Bank |
| Best paying industry | - | Media |
There are a few differences between a specifications writer and a managing editor in terms of educational background:
| Specifications Writer | Managing Editor | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 63% | Bachelor's Degree, 81% |
| Most common major | Business | Journalism |
| Most common college | University of Southern California | Northwestern University |
Here are the differences between specifications writers' and managing editors' demographics:
| Specifications Writer | Managing Editor | |
| Average age | 46 | 44 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 49.8% Female, 50.2% | Male, 46.6% Female, 53.4% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 6.4% Unknown, 4.9% Hispanic or Latino, 7.6% Asian, 8.6% White, 72.1% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.4% | Black or African American, 3.5% Unknown, 4.6% Hispanic or Latino, 7.9% Asian, 7.1% White, 76.7% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.3% |
| LGBT Percentage | 11% | 12% |