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The differences between technical writer and editors 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 technical writer and editor, 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 $65,088 average annual salary of a technical writer and editor.
The top three skills for a technical writer and editor include technical documentation, powerpoint and technical specifications. The most important skills for a managing editor are web content, editorial content, and SEO.
| Technical Writer And Editor | Managing Editor | |
| Yearly salary | $65,088 | $89,060 |
| Hourly rate | $31.29 | $42.82 |
| Growth rate | 6% | -5% |
| Number of jobs | 78,617 | 16,781 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 74% | Bachelor's Degree, 81% |
| Average age | 46 | 44 |
| Years of experience | 2 | 4 |
A technical writer and editor is primarily responsible for producing written content that defines and explains technical concepts to inform and educate readers. As a writer, it is essential to research and fact-check details to ensure the material's accuracy and value. They mostly follow directives and complete materials within an allotted deadline and format. Moreover, as an editor, they must also review and proofread materials for any errors and inconsistencies, perform corrective measures, and revise as needed.
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.
Technical writer and editors and managing editors have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Technical Writer And Editor | Managing Editor | |
| Average salary | $65,088 | $89,060 |
| Salary range | Between $51,000 And $82,000 | Between $59,000 And $132,000 |
| Highest paying City | Washington, DC | Washington, DC |
| Highest paying state | Arizona | Connecticut |
| Best paying company | Pegasystems | Federal Reserve Bank |
| Best paying industry | Technology | Media |
There are a few differences between a technical writer and editor and a managing editor in terms of educational background:
| Technical Writer And Editor | Managing Editor | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 74% | Bachelor's Degree, 81% |
| Most common major | English | Journalism |
| Most common college | University of Houston | Northwestern University |
Here are the differences between technical writer and editors' and managing editors' demographics:
| Technical Writer And Editor | Managing Editor | |
| Average age | 46 | 44 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 41.7% Female, 58.3% | Male, 46.6% Female, 53.4% |
| 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, 3.5% 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% |