6. Engineering writers have broad technical knowledge
To write effective content, engineering writers must possess broad knowledge and an understanding of multiple industries. They serve as the bridge that fills the knowledge gap for non-technical professionals. A wide base of expertise allows them to communicate accurately and effectively.
Engineering writers: in-house or outsourced?
A common question is whether to hire full-time or outsource an engineering writer. The past few years have caused major shifts in people’s working habits, meaning the pool of writing talent is larger than ever before. Engineering writing jobs are notoriously tough to fill but things are improving.
Many companies need technical writing services only on an irregular basis. In a full-time position, a skilled engineering writer may expect an average of $77,000 per year. If you’re not a large manufacturing corporation, that amount of money is no laughing matter.
Outsourced engineering writers, on the other hand, can work on an assignment-by-assignment basis, and not lock you into long-term commitments. Many businesses are resorting to outsourcing their writers today through niched agencies that cater to both long-term and short-term content needs. The downside is that it’s harder to get a sense of their technical writer’s capability before they start working. However, this can be overcome by checking out past client testimonials and sample works.
Since they are outsourced from niched agencies, these engineering writers have
1. Lower overhead cost
2. Independent personnel management system
3. Processes in place including quality checks
4. Professional team of writers and proofreaders
5. Have a broader range of expertise than someone who has worked for a single organization for several years because they cater to multiple clients.
Every engineering firm must decide for itself which type of engineering writer will fit best. There is no one-size-fits-all solution.