The good news is that you don't need a degree in technical writing or even a technical writing certificate to find steady work in the field. Online technical writing job postings are a good place to start your search. If you are offering technical writing services, the web sites listed below are a few places to look for employment, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned professional.
Freelance Technical Writer Jobs
Craigslist is a great starting point when looking for just about anything. You can browse categories of postings for people either offering or looking for something. It is an excellent resource for contract technical writing jobs. Both private people as well as large companies hire freelance technical writers for contract work that they either cannot perform themselves or do not have staff that can effectively write technical material. This is where your services are needed most. Respond to ads that describe work with which you have experience or work that sounds appealing to you. Make sure to read the ad carefully and follow instructions. For example, if the ad states that the employer wants to see professional or technical writing samples, make sure to send your samples. Beware of potential scam artists. Do some research on your potential employer and make sure that they seem reputable before beginning work. You can also subscribe to freelance writing RSS feeds, which often post links to open positions in technical writing.
Full-Time Technical Writing Careers
If you are looking for a more steady job in technical writing, a great place to start is online job boards. Just a few examples are Indeed, Monster, and Career Builder. These sites are fully searchable and customizable. Search for technical writing careers in your location, save searches for future reference, and apply online. Sign up for RSS feeds in specific search areas and let the posts come to you. If you are seeking a full-time position, you might also consider working toward a degree in technical writing or a technical writing certificate. Many technical colleges, such as DeVry or Kaplan, offer programs in technical communication. Having a degree or certificate would greatly increase your attractiveness to potential employers/
