5 Technical Writer Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

Did you know that 75% of marketers said generative AI helps them create more content than they would without it? Yes, all this tech is becoming a big part of our lives. But tech writing is much more than just writing. The job involves communication, research, grasping complex concepts, and then struggling to explain them—no AI can replicate the human element needed for that.

So instead of being scared of AI, the goal should be to integrate it into your professional life. Meanwhile, it doesn’t hurt to polish your technical writer resume. Use our extensive guide to highlight everything you can do that a machine can’t.

Here’s what else our guide will cover:

• A tech writer resume format that’s easy to read and understand
• Not sure how to describe your experience? We’ve got technical writer resume sample sections on your experience, education and personal statement
• How to create a portfolio if you have no experience
• Soft, hard, and technical skills
• Do I need a specific degree to become a tech writer?
• The best certifications for technical writing
• Additional sections on your resume that will set you apart
• Technical writer resume examples you can use to create a fab application

These related resume and cover letter guides might also be useful:

• Technical Writer Cover Letter Example
• Freelance Writer Resume Example
• Writer Resume Example
• Grant Writer Resume Example
• Copywriter Resume Example
• Content Manager Resume Example
• Content Creator Resume Example
• Journalist Resume Example
• Content Writer Cover Letter Example

How to format a technical writer resume

Just like in technical writing, the right format is extremely valuable. This ensures your content will reach the desired audience and create the impression you strive towards. You want your tech writer resume to best reflect your goals and qualifications. Start by choosing between a reverse chronological, functional, and hybrid resume.

The reverse chronological layout details your work history from most to least recent, whereas a functional resume puts your skills and competencies into the spotlight. Or let’s say you want to blend your writing experience with your relevant technical skills—then, the hybrid format is very effective.

Tips for a stellar tech writer resume

• Margins and layout: Set your margins to at least 1 inch on all sides to ensure your resume is clean and uncluttered. Use a single or double-column layout to organize your information logically—both are ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) readable.
• Colors and fonts: Choose simple, professional fonts like Rubik, Lato, or Calibri sizes 10—12 pt., which ensures readability. Stick to a subtle color scheme, but keep it to a minimum. It can still look professional while giving your application some character.
• Length: Aim to keep your resume to one page, especially if you’ve worked less than 5 years. Expand to two pages, if you have more extensive experience.

• Links: Adding a link to your LinkedIn profile can provide a quick insight into your abilities and achievements.
• Header and photo: Keep your header clear and to the point. Don’t include sensitive contact information, such as your marital status, and generally, omit the photo unless requested by the employer.

• File format: Save your resume as a PDF to maintain the formatting across all devices. This also helps prevent any compatibility issues with ATS.

Before submitting your resume, test it using our free ATS check tool. You’ll find out if it’s optimized to pass through these systems without issues.

Cover the basics of your technical writing resume. Make sure you include these sections:

When recruiters look at your resume, they'll be searching for specific details. Make sure you highlight the important points below to stand out.

Technical writer resume samples experience section

Depending on your company’s product, you create different types of documentation. These could vary between API documentation, user manuals, and tutorials. Your experience section should emphasize the specific projects you’ve been working on. What value did your writing bring? Maybe you helped create comprehensive documentation for complicated engineering software,or your creative tutorials increased user satisfaction. Whatever it is, make sure you don’t let it go unnoticed.

Here’s an example of a real junior technical writer job posting.

Here’s an experience section on a senior technical writer resume that won’t meet expectations:

• Generic description: The job description is vague. A senior technical writer resume would include more industry-specific information.
• Irrelevant details: The bullets are too general. Does the experience section align with the specialized requirements of the position? It’s unclear if this applicant understands technical terminology or produces user manuals.
• Lacks specific skills or tools: The description fails to mention any specific software or methodologies. These are crucial for a technical content writer resume, especially in IT or technical fields.

And here it is again, improved:

Why’s this one better? Well:

• Relevant and detailed job responsibilities: The description and bullets clearly outline specific tasks, which directly apply to the job posting. For example, the creation of user manuals and using Agile methodologies. This makes your technical content writer resume relevant.
• Highlights appropriate skills and tools: Mentions industry-standard tools and software. It’s always useful to show familiarity with the tools required for the job role.
• Tailored to the job posting: Addresses the needs mentioned in the job description, such as the ability to communicate with both technical and non-technical users. Being effective in a diverse work environment is also a desired quality for this job.

How to quantify impact on your resume

We know, we know. The very reason you started writing is to escape numbers, but measurable impact is important. It’s easy to spot on a resume and gives concrete information. This is great in technical writing and great on your resume. Here’s what you can include:

• Note the increase in readability of your past work to show how well you can simplify complex terms for different readers, highlighting your dedication to making information user-friendly.
• State how quickly you completed a major project, demonstrating your ability to work efficiently without compromising on quality.
• Mention the low number of errors in your drafts to showcase your meticulous attention to detail and strong grasp of the topics.
• Describe the size of the largest document you've written, such as the total number of pages or words, to show your ability to handle big projects.
• Include how many different platforms or tools you’re skilled with. A higher number indicates your flexibility and adaptability, important traits for managing various document formats.
• Mention any decrease in support calls or help requests after your documents were published, proving your skill in creating clear and helpful user guides.
• Point out any reductions in the time it takes you to produce documents, showing your growing efficiency and learning over time.
• Highlight any increase in positive feedback from customers following your work, underscoring your success in meeting user needs and enhancing communication.

How do I write a technical writer resume with no experience?

Becoming a technical writer with little or no experience can be easier than you imagined. There’s work involved that needs to be done in advance, though. Here are a few tips:

• Get certified: What additional training can you add to your resume? Industry-specific courses in (technical) writing are one idea. Another helpful bonus is knowledge of help authoring tools, such as Paligo or MadCap Flare.
• Think of your transferable skills: Maybe you’ve worked as a copywriter or have done a lot of research in your previous job. Perhaps you're a product manager with in-depth knowledge of a product or an English teacher who can explain difficult concepts to students. These give you a steady foundation to build upon in your technical writing career.
• Create a portfolio: It’s always a good idea to show real examples of your work. Even if you're just an entry-level technical writer, you can always write down instructions on how to use your favorite application. If you can’t think of anything to write about, choose a simple app, like the Calculator on your phone.

Technical writer skills on your resume

There’s no doubt a skills section on your resume is important. It’s a list of your areas of expertise, which can quickly impress potential employers. A skills section including relevant keywords can help you score higher in the ATS screening. It also increases your chances of being noticed by hiring managers.

Featuring technical skills on your tech writer resume is a no-brainer. But which ones to include? Tailor them to the job posting. Will you be writing user or API documentation? The help authoring software you include will depend on that. Just make sure you never list skills you don’t actually have. Feel free to add some hard skills that are universal to the field, such as Git/GitHub or Snagit. These work with most tech writer job postings.

Soft skills are super important in every job. If you've been a tech writer for a while now, you know there’s a lot more communication involved than the job title suggests. Technical writing includes a lot of research and interviewing SMEs (subject matter experts). It’s the best way to understand the core of the product you’re writing about. That means extensive social interaction.

Consider adding some of the soft skills we’ve gathered below to show you can work effectively within a team.

See? Your human skills, even when they relate to technology, are indispensable.

Now that we've covered the essential skills every technical content writer resume should include, let's examine the educational background that can set you on the path to success in this field.

Certifications and education on your technical writing resume

Technical writing is one of the few fields where you can thrive with various degrees. Whether you come from an English, Communication, IT, Engineering, or Computer Science background, there's a place for you. Many job postings welcome both language and technical degrees. This highlights the versatility of this career. If you have a language degree, your writing expertise will be your strength, whereas, a tech degree gives you the know-how to navigate complex technical concepts. Whatever your educational background, you can leverage it to excel in technical writing.

Let’s look at a technical writer education example:

This technical writer resume sample section is on point, and here’s why:

• Directly applicable degree: The degree in Technical Communication is directly relevant. It will get you ahead even as a junior technical writer.
• Exemplary academic record: High GPA and graduating Summa Cum Laude demonstrate strong academic performance and dedication.
• Relevant practical skills: Detailed bullet points highlight specific coursework and practical experience related to technical writing. This makes the candidate more attractive for technical writing positions.

All related certifications and training will be extremely helpful in your application—with or without experience. Think about what writing or technical courses you’ve completed that can get you ahead. Consider adding some of these to your tech writer resume:

How to write your tech writer resume summary or objective

A well-written personal statement sets the tone for your resume. It’s a given many applications will list similar technical skills or backgrounds. So, emphasize your specific strengths, specializations, or career goals. Do that by crafting your summary or objective in a way that makes you stand out. But which one to choose?

Let’s say you’ve already been a tech writer for some time. You’ve lived and you’ve learned, and you want to express that. Your knowledge is valuable and your skills—worthy. A resume summary will perfectly capture your professional expertise.

If you’re an entry-level technical writer or are transitioning to technical writing from another field, consider the resume objective. It effectively communicates your strong motivation and excitement for the position.

Technical writers know examples clarify even the most complicated software documentation. Also, examples keep the readers engaged. Here’s a wrong and a right technical writer resume summary sample:

Here’s why this objective won’t catch recruiters’ eyes:

• Lacks professional focus: The objective is too casual with phrases like "love writing" and "try something new." These don't communicate a serious professional intent. Nor an understanding of the technical writing field.
• Vague aspirations: It fails to specify what aspects of tech writing the candidate is interested in. Do they have any relevant skills they might bring to the position? It's unclear what value they offer.
• Non-committed language: A phrase like "hoping to get a chance" suggests a lack of commitment and direction. This can be off-putting to potential employers looking for dedicated professionals.

Well, I would never write my objective like that, you might say. Let’s look at a better example then, just in case:

This one’s much better because it has:

• A clear transition statement: Indicates a clear shift from a background in English literature to technical writing. This transition shows an understanding of the need for specialized skills in the new field.
• Specific skill highlights: Points out transferable skills such as "meticulous research" and "clear, concise communication." These are highly relevant and valuable in technical writing.
• A professional tone and intent: The objective is professionally articulated, with a focus on leveraging specific skills for mutual benefit. This is a sign of a proactive and purposeful career move.

Now, you’ve got almost everything you need for a stellar resume. To really distinguish yourself, include some additional sections.

Additional sections for a technical writer resume

Additional sections on your resume highlight skills, experiences, and accomplishments that might not fit into the traditional resume categories. These include a broader range of skills, experiences, and achievements. Consider adding the following to make your application unique.

• Professional development: Participating in industry conferences, webinars, and professional associations shows a tech writer's dedication. These activities offer networking opportunities and keep skills sharp. They also ensure you stay updated on the latest trends.
• Portfolio and writing samples: A diverse portfolio is key to highlighting a tech writer’s expertise. Showcasing various documentation types, like user manuals, API docs, and guides, demonstrates versatility. It also proves the ability to produce high-quality, user-friendly content.
• Content management and organization: Mastering content management systems (CMS) and version control ensures efficient handling of documentation. These skills guarantee up-to-date, consistent, and accurate content. They also make sure you align your writing with product updates and standards.
• User experience (UX) understanding: Grasping UX principles is crucial for creating user-friendly documentation. Experience in UX design or collaborating with UX teams ensures intuitive, accessible content.
• Languages: Speaking multiple languages allows you to communicate in diverse teams. It also enables you to create documentation for a wider audience or look for a job at a multinational company.  
• Cross-functional collaboration: This section paints a vivid picture of your dynamic role within a team. It emphasizes your team-oriented contributions. Here’s what it could look like:

Key takeaways

In an era where AI is becoming increasingly prevalent, you still have a lot to give. Make sure you flaunt your skills by creating a terrific resume for a technical writer. Follow these tips to stand out to recruiters:

• Choose the right resume format: Your format is important, and you know that from writing documentation. Make your resume easy to read and understand.
• Master the experience section: Include specific details, quantify your impact, and provide examples of your work.  
• Stand out even with little to no experience: You can make a portfolio even if you have no practical experience. Use your favorite app to begin.
• Feature a strong skill set: The specific help authoring software you’ll list on your resume depends on the company you’re applying to.  Your personal skills are indispensable as tech writing requires communication and collaboration.
• Education and certification: Tech writing allows for a versatile educational background. Certifications give you credibility.
• Craft a personal statement: Write a summary or objective that aligns with the tech writer job you’re applying for.
• Additional sections: Knowledge of UX design or CMS (content management systems) expands your horizons as a technical writer.