Copywriters

Technical Writers

Years

I

Creates basic copy for corporate materials, including memos, handbooks, inventory notes, sales scripts, business letters, forms, flyers, etc. May create copy for small newspaper ads (employment, general sales, etc.). May also develop general internal communications pieces, alone or on a team, as needed. Should possess general proofreading and copyediting skills.

Writes instructions sheets for company procedures, minor technical operations and equipment, logging on to company network or the Internet, etc. Writes assembly or instruction guides for simpler products. Assists on more complicated writing projects, including software documentation, user manuals, etc.

II

More strategic writing projects. Writes copy for small-to-midsize promotional campaigns, mail order catalogs, corporate capability materials, or basic Web content. May assist with the writing of annual reports and other higher writing projects.

Writes assembly / instruction manuals for complex equipment or for computer hardware. Writes manuals for relatively simple software (requires understanding of product or software). May have basic Illustration skills (simple diagrams). May also work well on a team for industry-specific proposal or grant writing.

2+

III

Mid-management level creative. Projects could include working alone or on a team to produce copy for TV, radio, print, or multimedia campaigns. Also annual reports, major corporate collateral, and executive level speechwriting. In addition to proofreading and copyediting skills, should also possess strategic thinking and project management capabilities. Should be comfortable working with graphic designers, marketing, and corporate executives alike.

The writer may be an engineer or computer programmer who also has the ability to document clearly. Alternatively, a tech writer at this level may actually be creating new processes out of existing components. For example, devising a new prepress or Web development workflow, complete with templates and documentation for end users. May have some illustration skills and knowledge of drawing or CAD software; experienced at working with technical Illustrators, should be skilled at writing detailed, industry-specific proposals or grants.

3–5

IV

Senior level executive / creative director level. Must have the ability to develop strategy and create copy for TV, radio, print, Web, or multimedia campaigns. May be in a supervisory position, directing other members of a creative team. Must be comfortable in an executive environment and be able to interface with senior level management.

Writes instruction manuals for complex software. Writes automobile or heavy equipment repair guides, or other materials requiring significant mechanical or technical expertise, ability to “break down” complicated processes into component parts and explain them clearly. May have some illustration skills; experienced at working with technical illustrators. Must be to write and / or supervise the creation of detailed, industry-specific proposals or grants.