TechWhirl (TECHWR-L) is a resource for technical writing and technical communications professionals of all experience levels and in all industries to share their experiences and acquire information.
For two decades, technical communicators have turned to TechWhirl to ask and answer questions about the always-changing world of technical communications, such as tools, skills, career paths, methodologies, and emerging industries. The TechWhirl Archives and magazine, created for, by and about technical writers, offer a wealth of knowledge to everyone with an interest in any aspect of technical communications.
>Sharona Nelson wrote:
>>I can tell you that for senior writers in the Boston area, most places
>>seem to be paying over 50K. How much over depends on a lot of factors.
>--snip--
>Techwhirlers:
>Dave Demyan wrote:
><snip>
>PS: I can verify that rates are escalating on the East Coast. I
>recruit and place contract technical writers in New Jersey and Metro
>New York. Rates are high here for good writers.
>Dave.
Maybe in NY and NJ, Dave, but they're not so great here in PA. I'm in the
Phila. suburban area, I have 15+ years of experience, and my salary is
ridiculously low. Every tech writer I know has the same story to tell.
Hardly one of us is being paid what we're worth. Contractors can sometimes
make out well--if they don't mind not having health insurance, vacation,
sick days, etc. I've gone out on interviews and have actually been offered a
good deal less than what I'm currently making. This 'lowballing' on salary
seems to be quite common in this area, especially with software and other
computer-related companies. It's an old story, but the attitude toward tech
writers in this area is that your just a half-step up from secretary. Maybe
not even a half-step.
I can only drool over those CA salary figures and at least be glad someone
is getting decent pay.