Expert: Leslie - 2/3/2008

Question
Hi Leslie,
I currently work for a software company creating courses for classroom and on-demand (online) audiences.  In preparation for my review I have been researching what the current salary range is for such a position but can find little information available.  I know it varies greatly depending on location, technical depth, specialist skill etc but can you give me any indication even if it is a wide range?

Many thanks,
Beth

Answer
Beth,

I can't really give you a clear answer on the wages. As you mentioned, the location, technical depth, specialist skills make a big difference. You also need to consider education and experience to the list.  

You might take a look on Career Builder. I have seen and tried a service that can be reached by clicking on the question at the bottom of the job description.  The information it provides is pretty close. As I recall, it takes location and experience into consideration.

DICE.com deals with technical skills, and technical writing is included in some of the ads. You might want to look through the ads to see what the employers are offering.

Also, I had an address for a technical writers society. I cannot find it now, but it is the Society for Technical Writers or something like that where the wages and costs for consultants is discussed.

If you are a contractor, keep in mind that in addition to your work time wages, you need to add the cost of doing business to your wages: insurance, overhead, etc. If you are an employee, the wages may be lower, but those costs are covered.

Good luck.

Leslie