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The differences between technical writer and editors 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 technical writer and editor, becoming a technical editor takes usually requires 2-4 years. Additionally, a technical writer and editor has an average salary of $65,088, which is higher than the $61,717 average annual salary of a technical editor.
The top three skills for a technical writer and editor include technical documentation, powerpoint and technical specifications. The most important skills for a technical editor are powerpoint, english language, and proofreading.
| Technical Writer And Editor | Technical Editor | |
| Yearly salary | $65,088 | $61,717 |
| Hourly rate | $31.29 | $29.67 |
| Growth rate | 6% | -5% |
| Number of jobs | 78,617 | 78,423 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 74% | Bachelor's Degree, 76% |
| 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.
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.
Technical writer and editors and technical editors have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Technical Writer And Editor | Technical Editor | |
| Average salary | $65,088 | $61,717 |
| Salary range | Between $51,000 And $82,000 | Between $47,000 And $80,000 |
| Highest paying City | Washington, DC | Oakland, CA |
| Highest paying state | Arizona | Connecticut |
| Best paying company | Pegasystems | Apple |
| Best paying industry | Technology | Technology |
There are a few differences between a technical writer and editor and a technical editor in terms of educational background:
| Technical Writer And Editor | Technical Editor | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 74% | Bachelor's Degree, 76% |
| Most common major | English | English |
| Most common college | University of Houston | Northwestern University |
Here are the differences between technical writer and editors' and technical editors' demographics:
| Technical Writer And Editor | Technical Editor | |
| Average age | 46 | 44 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 41.7% Female, 58.3% | 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% |