Are you looking how to showcase your skills and experience effectively? Crafting a compelling technical writer resume is essential to stand out in a competitive job market.

Whether you're aiming to land your first role or seeking advancement in your career, a well-crafted resume can make all the difference.

The very first thing I tell my new students on the first day of a workshop is that good writing is about telling the truth.

Anne Lamott

In this guide, we'll explore the essential elements of a successful document, provide actionable tips, and offer technical writer resume examples to inspire and guide you.

Technical writer resume examples

Entry-level technical writer resume sample with no experience

Entry-level technical writer resume sample with no experience
Use template Download PDF

Medical technical writer resume example

Summary:

Experienced medical technical writer with over 13 years of experience in creating clear and concise documentation for pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. Proven ability to translate complex scientific information into accessible content for diverse audiences. Strong background in regulatory compliance, clinical trials, and medical device documentation.

Experience:

Senior Medical Technical Writer

MedTech Solutions, Boston, MA

March 2018 - Present

  • Develop and maintain comprehensive user manuals, training materials, and regulatory documentation for medical devices, ensuring compliance with FDA guidelines.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including engineers, regulatory affairs, and marketing to ensure accuracy and clarity of technical content.
  • Lead documentation review processes, providing feedback and revisions to improve content quality and readability.
  • Conduct thorough research and interviews with subject matter experts to gather technical specifications and user requirements.

Medical Writer

Pharma Innovations, Cambridge, MA

July 2014 - February 2018

  • Authored scientific manuscripts, clinical study reports, and regulatory submissions for new drug applications (NDAs) and investigational new drug (IND) filings.
  • Edited and formatted technical documents to comply with company and industry standards, maintaining consistency and accuracy throughout.
  • Assisted in the development of protocols and clinical trial documentation, ensuring alignment with regulatory and ethical guidelines.
  • Collaborated with research teams to interpret data and communicate findings effectively in written form.

Freelance Medical Writer

Self-Employed

January 2011 - June 2014

  • Provided writing and editing services to pharmaceutical companies, medical device manufacturers, and healthcare organizations.
  • Specialized in creating patient education materials, product manuals, and marketing collateral targeting healthcare professionals.
  • Developed content for websites and blogs focused on medical research, health trends, and patient care.

Education:

Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering

Harvard University, Cambridge, MA

Graduated: May 2010

Skills:

  • Proficient in technical writing tools such as Adobe FrameMaker, Microsoft Word, and LaTeX.
  • Strong understanding of FDA and international regulatory requirements for medical devices and pharmaceuticals.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.
  • Detail-oriented and skilled in conducting thorough research to support technical content development.

Certifications:

  • Certified Medical Writer (CMW) - renewed in 2024
  • Regulatory Affairs Certification (RAC) - valid till 2026

Publications:

  • Smith, J., & Johnson, A. (2022). "Advances in Biomedical Engineering: A Review." Journal of Medical Devices, 15(2), 123-135.
  • Smith, J., Brown, C., & Martinez, D. (2018). "Clinical Trials in Oncology: Challenges and Opportunities." Oncology Research Reviews, 8(4), 287-299.
  • Smith, J., et al. (2013). "Patient Education in Cardiovascular Health: Strategies and Outcomes." Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing, 28(1), 45-55.

Formatting tips

Technical writing involves communicating complex data clearly and concisely. A well-formatted technical writer resume demonstrates your ability to organize information effectively, making it easy for recruiters to quickly grasp your qualifications and experience.

Here are some recommendations:

  • Use an easily readable font such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. They are widely accepted and make your document easy to look through.
  • Use a font size between 10pt and 12pt for the main body text. Headings can be slightly larger (e.g., 14pt to 16pt) to differentiate sections and make them stand out.
  • Maintain consistency throughout your technical writer resume in terms of font type, size, and formatting (e.g., bold, italics, underlining). It helps create a cohesive and organized appearance.
  • Ensure adequate margins (usually around 1 inch) to frame the content neatly. Sufficient white space around text blocks improves readability.
  • Use bullet points to list your responsibilities, achievements, and skills under each section. Bulleted lists are easier to scan than paragraphs.
  • Avoid using excessive design elements such as decorative fonts, bright background colors, or graphics.
  • Aim to keep your resume for a technical writer position concise, ideally fitting on one or two pages.

Using an online resume builder can save you time compared to creating a document from scratch in a word processor.

The technical writer resume templates and formatting are already set up, allowing you to focus more on content and less on details.

Plus, Resume Trick allows for easy updates and revisions to your document. You can quickly make edits, adjust formatting, or tailor your technical writer resume for different job postings without starting again each time.

Create your professional Resume in 10 minutes for FREE

Build My Resume

Technical writer resume objective or summary

A resume summary is a brief overview of your skills, experiences, and achievements as they relate to the job you're applying for. It's typically used when you have significant experience in the field.

Technical writer resume summary example:

Experienced technical writer with over 5 years of expertise in creating user documentation for software products and API documentation. Skilled in translating complex technical concepts into clear, concise, and user-friendly documentation. Proven track record of improving documentation processes and enhancing user satisfaction. Proficient in MadCap Flare, Adobe FrameMaker, and XML.

An objective statement is used when you are new to the field or transitioning into technical writing from another career path. It focuses on your work goals and what you hope to achieve in the position you are applying for.

Sample technical writer resume objective:

Detail-oriented professional with a background in software development seeking to transition into a technical writer role. Eager to leverage skills in API documentation, user manuals, and technical editing to contribute to the success of a dynamic tech company.

Contact information

Providing clear contact details ensures that employers can quickly and easily get in touch with you. This accessibility is fundamental for progressing through the hiring process, as it allows recruiters to to reach out to you for scheduling interviews or follow up on your technical writer resume.

What to include here:

  • Name. Your first and last name.
  • Phone. A number where you can be reached. Make sure your voicemail message is clear and professional.
  • Email. An address that you regularly check. Avoid using informal or overly casual emails.
  • Location. Your city and state (and country for remote jobs) to provide context about your location.
  • LinkedIn (Optional). A profile that is up-to-date and relevant to your professional experience. Ensure it is polished and aligns with your technical writer resume content.

Experience

This technical writer resume section allows you to demonstrate your ability to effectively communicate technical information, collaborate with teams, and adapt your style to different audiences and industries.

Here you can highlight your familiarity with specific industries, such as software development, healthcare, engineering, or telecommunications. This knowledge is valuable as it indicates your ability to grasp technical concepts and terminology relevant to the specific field.

Start with your most recent or current position and work backward.

Key details for each role:

  • Job title. Clearly state your job title to provide context for your responsibilities.
  • Company. Include the name of the organization where you worked, along with the city and state (or country).
  • Dates. Specify the duration of your employment (month and year).
  • Responsibilities. Describe your main tasks as a technical writer. Focus on specific accomplishments and contributions that demonstrate your skills and impact.
  • Achievements. Highlight any notable accomplishments, such as improvements in documentation quality, successful completion of major projects, or recognition received for your work.

Begin each bullet point with a strong action verb to describe your responsibilities effectively (e.g., "Authored comprehensive user manuals for software products").

Example:

Senior Technical Writer

Tech Innovations Inc., Seattle, WA

September 2020 – Present

  • Collaborate with software engineers and product managers to produce detailed API documentation for new software releases.
  • Create user guides, installation manuals, and troubleshooting documentation for enterprise-level software products.
  • Implement a streamlined documentation review process, reducing revision cycles by 30%.
  • Conduct usability testing and gathered stakeholder feedback to enhance documentation usability and effectiveness.
  • Mentor and supervise junior technical writers, ensuring consistency and adherence to documentation standards.

Technical Writer

MedTech Solutions, San Francisco, CA

June 2018 - August 2020

  • Developed clear and concise healthcare IT documentation, including system manuals and training materials for medical staff.
  • Worked closely with subject matter experts to translate technical information into user-friendly content.
  • Updated existing documentation to reflect software updates and regulatory changes in the healthcare industry.
  • Conducted documentation audits to ensure compliance with industry standards and internal guidelines.

Education

This part of your technical writer resume showcases your formal education. Include degrees that are directly related to fields such as English, Communication, Journalism, Computer Science, or Engineering.

This signals to employers that you have a solid educational background that supports your technical writing skills.

Important elements:

  • Degree. Specify the degree(s) you obtained (e.g., Bachelor of Arts in English, Master of Science in Technical Communication).
  • Institution. Include the name of the college or university where you earned your credentials.
  • Location and dates. Provide the location of the institution (city, state, country) and the dates of attendance or graduation.
  • Relevant coursework. Optionally, list specific courses that are directly relevant to technical writing or that showcase your expertise in related areas.
  • GPA (if relevant). Add your GPA if it’s above 3.5 and enhances your qualifications.
  • Awards. Mention any academic honors or awards received.

Example:

Master of Science in Technical Communication

University of Washington, Seattle, WA

September 2018 - May 2020

  • Relevant Coursework: Advanced Technical Writing, Information Architecture, User Experience Design
  • Thesis: "Improving User Manuals for Consumer Electronics: A Case Study of Smartphone Documentation"
  • GPA: 3.9/4.0
  • Honors: Dean's List (All Semesters)

Bachelor of Arts in English University of California, Berkeley, CA September 2014 - May 2018

  • Coursework: Technical Writing, Professional Editing, Communication Theory
  • GPA: 3.8/4.0
  • Honors: Cum Laude, Outstanding Student in English Department Award

Technical writer resume skills

By carefully selecting and listing skills that match the job description, you demonstrate that you understand the requirements of the role and can fulfill them effectively.

Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes based on keywords. Including relevant technical writer skills ensures that your application reaches human eyes for further consideration.

  • Hard skills, also known as technical competencies, are specific, teachable abilities that can be quantified and measured.
  • Soft skills, on the other hand, are less tangible and relate to how individuals interact with others and approach their work.

Hard skills of a technical writer:

  • Technical Writing
  • Documentation Tools
  • Markup Languages
  • Version Control Systems
  • Graphic Design
  • Content Management Systems (CMS)
  • Quality Assurance
  • Information Architecture
  • Localization
  • Regulatory Compliance

Soft skills for technical writer:

  • Communication
  • Attention to Detail
  • Adaptability
  • Critical Thinking
  • Problem-Solving
  • Collaboration
  • Time Management
  • Empathy
  • Creativity
  • Research Skills

Optional sections

  • Certifications. Highlight any certifications related to technical writing. Examples for a technical writer resume include Certified Professional Technical Communicator (CPTC), Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) in Technical Communication Suite, or Certified Information Mapping Professional (CIMP).
  • Languages. If you are proficient in multiple languages, especially those relevant to your target audience or industry, mention them here.
  • Publications. Include a technical writer resume part where you list any articles, blogs, or documents you've authored or contributed to. This can demonstrate your writing style and subject matter expertise.
  • Professional Development. Mention workshops, seminars, or courses you've attended related to specific industries. This shows your commitment to continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends.
  • Achievements. If you've received awards or recognition for your technical writing or related skills, mention them in a dedicated section to highlight your accomplishments.

Technical writer cover letter

As you now know, a technical writer resume provides a concise summary of your work experience, skills, education, and achievements relevant to the job. In a cover letter, you can elaborate on specific components mentioned briefly in the resume.

Use template Download PDF

A cover letter is a personalized document that allows you to explain why you are interested in the position and how your skills and experience make you a good fit.

How to write a letter accompanying your technical writer resume:

  • Header. Include your contact information and the date at the top of the letter. Add the employer’s data (if known) below yours.
  • Salutation. Address the document to the hiring manager or the person specified in the job posting.
  • Introduction. Start with a strong opening paragraph that states the position you are applying for and how you found out about the opportunity.
  • Body paragraphs. Discuss specific technical writing projects you’ve worked on. Provide examples of your ability to write clear and concise documentation.
  • Closing. Summarize why you are a strong candidate and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity.
  • Sign-off. End with a professional sign-off (e.g., Sincerely, Regards) followed by your full name.

Example of a cover letter for a technical writer resume:

  • Dear Mr. Taylor,

    I am writing to express my interest in the Technical Writer position at Olson Electronics. With over 5 years of experience in technical writing and a passion for clear and concise communication, I am confident that I would be a valuable asset to your team.

    Throughout my career, I have successfully created user manuals, training materials, and technical documentation for various software and hardware products. My attention to detail, strong research skills, and ability to understand complex information have allowed me to deliver high-quality documents that are easy to understand and follow.

    One of my proudest achievements was when I led a team of writers to revamp the entire documentation process at my previous company. By implementing new templates and guidelines, we were able to reduce the time it took to create user manuals by 50%, while also improving the overall quality of the documents. This resulted in positive feedback from both internal teams and customers.

    In addition to my technical writing skills, I am also proficient in various software tools such as Adobe FrameMaker, MadCap Flare, and Microsoft Office Suite. I am a quick learner and adapt easily to new tools and processes.

    My best qualities include being organized, detail-oriented, and a strong communicator. I take pride in my ability to work independently as well as collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve common goals. My dedication and commitment to producing high-quality work under tight deadlines have been commended by previous supervisors.

    I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills and experience to Olson Electronics. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing this opportunity further.

    Sincerely,

    Linda Sparks

If you don't have work history, focus on any extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or internships that demonstrate your abilities and work ethic.

Even if they’re not directly related to the job, emphasize transferable skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.

Entry-level technical writer cover letter example:

Dear Ms. Johnson,

I am excited to apply for the entry-level Technical Writer position at Hitech Innovations Inc., as advertised on your company website. With a recent Bachelor’s degree in Technical Communication from San Francisco State University, I am eager to contribute my skills and enthusiasm to your team.

Throughout my academic journey, I acquired a robust understanding of technical writing principles and best practices. Courses in user documentation, software manuals, and online help systems provided me with the expertise to distill complex technical concepts into clear, user-friendly content.

During my internship at Tech Solutions Plus, I had the opportunity to work alongside experienced technical writers. I assisted in the creation of user guides and instructional documents for software products. This way I gained hands-on experience in research, content organization, and document formatting. This internship strengthened my ability to communicate effectively with cross-functional teams and deliver high-quality documentation under deadlines.

I possess proficiency in technical writing tools including Adobe FrameMaker, Microsoft Word, and Visio, ensuring efficient document creation and formatting. I am committed to producing documentation that meets user needs while adhering to company style guides and brand standards.

I am enthusiastic about the prospect of joining Hitech Innovations Inc. and contributing to your mission of delivering innovative solutions to clients. I am eager to bring my technical writing skills and passion for technology to your dynamic team.

Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my qualifications align with the needs of Hitech Innovations Inc.

Sincerely,

Heather Ward

Create your professional Cover letter in 10 minutes for FREE

Build My Cover Letter

Proofreading

Don’t forget that your job involves creating clear, accurate, and well-structured documents. Your technical writer resume and cover letter serve as examples of your skills, attention to detail, and professionalism.

Here are tips on proofreading your application papers:

  • After writing, set your documents aside for a few hours or even a day. Returning with fresh eyes can help you spot errors you might have missed initially.
  • Reading aloud can catch awkward phrasing, run-on sentences, and other issues that may not be as obvious when reviewing silently.
  • Utilize spell check tools like Grammarly, Hemingway, or the built-in checker in your word processor. They can find grammar mistakes and suggest improvements.
  • Ensure that formatting, font style, and font size are consistent throughout your cover letter and resume for technical writer. Inconsistencies can make them look unprofessional.
  • Have someone else review your application. Another person can provide a fresh perspective and see mistakes you’ve overlooked.
  • Check that your documents are visually appealing and easy to read. Use bullet points, headings, and ample white space to improve readability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, crafting a strong resume for a technical writer position is crucial for showcasing your skills, experience, and achievements effectively.

Remember to tailor your application to each job posting, emphasizing relevant abilities that align with the specific requirements of the role.

By following the tips and technical writer resume examples provided in this guide, you can create a document that not only highlights your copywriting expertise but also grabs the attention of hiring managers in your desired industry.

Create your professional Resume in 10 minutes for FREE

Build My Resume