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Contract Technical Writer Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

DIALOG

Senior Specifications Writer

Edmonton, AB · On-site

CA$90K - CA$124K/yr

Do you have a knack for digging deep into technical details and product literature? Are you excited ... Advise and guide architects and engineers, contract administrators and project managers, and out-of ...

DIALOG

Senior Specifications Writer

Calgary, AB

CA$90K - CA$124K/yr

Do you have a knack for digging deep into technical details and product literature? Are you excited ... Advise and guide architects and engineers, contract administrators and project managers, and out-of ...

Hatch

Contract Specialist

Calgary, AB

With more than 70 years of business and technical expertise in mining, energy, and infrastructure ... Excellent verbal and written communication skills Why join us? * Work with great people to make a ...

Hatch

Contract Specialist

Calgary, AB · On-site

With more than 70 years of business and technical expertise in mining, energy, and infrastructure ... Excellent verbal and written communication skills Why join us? * Work with great people to make a ...

Wood Plc

Project Engineer/Coordinator

Calgary, AB · On-site

Strong problem solving, organizational, and written and verbal communication skills are required for the purpose of preparing proposals, letters, emails, legal contracts, technical presentations ...

FLINT Corp.

Proposals Specialist

Calgary, AB

... reviewing contracts, leading meetings, and managing deadlines. Strong communication skills ... Advanced technical writing, editing, and proofreading skills with a strong attention to detail.

METRO Testing + Engineering

CA$22 - CA$25/hr

... term contract until October 31st Mileage allowances Company cell phone Who we are looking for ... Excellent technical communication skills, both written and verbal Excellent interpersonal skills ...

New

METRO Testing + Engineering

CA$22 - CA$25/hr

... term contract until October 31st Mileage allowances Company cell phone Who we are looking for ... Excellent technical communication skills, both written and verbal Excellent interpersonal skills ...

New

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Contract Technical Writer information

What are some common challenges faced by contract technical writers, and how can they be managed?

Contract technical writers often encounter challenges such as quickly adapting to new industries or technologies, working with limited project background, and managing communication with multiple stakeholders. To navigate these, it's important to ask targeted questions early, establish clear project expectations, and utilize available documentation and subject matter experts efficiently. Strong organizational skills and proactive communication are essential to delivering high-quality work within tight deadlines commonly found in contract roles.

What is a contract technical writer?

Contract technical writers are professionals hired on a temporary or project basis to create, edit, and manage technical documentation for organizations. They often work independently or through staffing agencies, producing materials such as user manuals, guides, software documentation, and standard operating procedures. Unlike full-time employees, contract technical writers typically work for a set period or until the completion of specific projects, offering flexibility for both the writer and the employer. Their expertise helps businesses clearly communicate complex information to users, clients, or internal teams.

What is the difference between Contract Technical Writer vs Technical Writer?

AspectContract Technical WriterTechnical Writer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in English, Communications, or related field; certifications like STC are a plusSame as Contract Technical Writer, often with similar certifications
Work EnvironmentProject-based, often remote or on-site for specific clientsFull-time employment, may be remote or in-office
Employer & IndustryFreelance or consulting firms, tech companies, manufacturingCorporations, publishers, tech firms, government agencies
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched for project-based or freelance rolesTypically sought as full-time positions

The main difference between a Contract Technical Writer and a Technical Writer lies in employment type and work setup. Contract Technical Writers work on a project basis, often freelance or temporary, while Technical Writers are usually full-time employees. Both roles require similar skills, credentials, and industry experience, but their work arrangements differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract technical writer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Technical Writer, you need strong writing, editing, and research skills, usually supported by a relevant degree or experience in technical communication. Familiarity with documentation tools like Microsoft Word, Adobe FrameMaker, MadCap Flare, and content management systems is typically required. Excellent attention to detail, time management, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly are vital soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure the creation of accurate, user-friendly documentation that meets project deadlines and client expectations.

What does a contract technical writer do?

Contract technical writers compose journal articles, instruction manuals, textbooks, and other documents with complex, technical information that needs to be explained in an easy-to-understand way. Unlike staff writers, contract technical writers are freelancers that work on a short- or long-term contract basis. In this role, you determine the scope of each writing project from your client, then collaborate with product designers and developers to understand what you are writing about. Once you gather the required information, you write and organize the document based on your target audience, adding photographs, drawings, charts, and diagrams as needed. Your documents are proofread and edited before they are published.

How much does a freelance technical writer make?

Freelance technical writers typically earn between $30 and $100 per hour, depending on experience, specialization, and project complexity. Many also charge per project or word, with rates varying based on industry and technical expertise. Experienced writers with specialized skills in tools like Markdown or DITA can command higher rates.

Are contract technical writers still in demand?

Contract technical writers are still in demand as companies seek skilled professionals to create clear documentation for products and services. Demand is driven by technology growth, regulatory requirements, and the need for updated user manuals, often requiring proficiency with tools like Markdown or XML. Opportunities are available across various industries, including software, manufacturing, and healthcare, with remote work options increasing flexibility for contract roles.

Is a contract technical writer a high paying job?

Contract technical writers can earn competitive pay, often based on their experience, technical skills, and the complexity of the documentation. Rates for contract work typically range from hourly to project-based fees and can be higher than salaried positions, especially for specialized industries or advanced tools like DITA or FrameMaker.
More about Contract Technical Writer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Technical Writer jobs in Alberta? The most popular types of Technical Writer jobs in Alberta are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Technical Writer jobs in Alberta? For Contract Technical Writer jobs in Alberta, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Technical Writer jobs in Alberta look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Technical Writer jobs in Alberta are:
What cities in Alberta are hiring for Contract Technical Writer jobs? Cities in Alberta with the most Contract Technical Writer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Technical Writer jobs in AB? For Contract Technical Writer jobs in AB, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Contract Technical Writer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Technical Writer job openings in Alberta as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Senior Specifications Writer

DIALOG

Edmonton, AB • On-site

CA$90K - CA$124K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Here at DIALOG, we are passionate about design and believe it can and should meaningfully improve the wellbeing of our communities and the environment we all share.
 
We are a multi-disciplinary practice of architects, interior designers, urban designers and planners, structural, mechanical and electrical engineers, landscape architects and sustainability experts who design for community wellbeing and urban vibrancy. We are a fun-loving bunch of big thinkers and city-shapers, who are collaborative in our approach, diverse in our perspectives, aspirational in our pursuits, and optimistic about what's next. We're always looking for passionate people who share our values and care as much about our communities as we do. We're proud to be a Certified B Corporation and one of Canada's Greenest Employers, committed to using our design practice as a force for good in the world.

Are you passionate about building science? Do you have a knack for digging deep into technical details and product literature? Are you excited about innovating to design buildings that are functional and beautiful while minimizing their impact on the environment?
 
As a Specifier at DIALOG, you will be an integral part of our Practice-wide Specifications Team. This team is dedicated to coaching and mentoring you as you grow and develop in your role. You will work closely with Project Management leads, Job Captains, and project teams to prepare, execute, and manage the specification writing process, seeing your projects from beginning to end.
 
This role can be based in the Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa, Toronto or Vancouver studio.
How you'll make a difference:
  • Collaborate and Advise: Be the point person for all things specifications; our Go To Person! Advise and guide architects and engineers, contract administrators and project managers, and out-of-house specialty consultants regarding project specific specifications and certain aspects of tendering and contracting procedures.
  • Leadership: Manage and lead specifications on a variety of projects. Mentor and coach more junior team members, and assist with the management of workloads and project deadlines for the specification group.
  • Expertise in Building Science: Maintain currency of specification writing skills, aspects of building science, contract law and product research. Be aware of and seek guidance in the preparation of documents for multiphased and nonconventional methods of contract delivery such as Design-Built, Construction Managed, or P3 projects.
  • Foster Relationships: Build effective working relationships with project managers and guide project teams on bidding and contracting procedures, including the preparation and administration of addenda and bid revisions.
  • Innovate and Create: Review, edit, and write architectural specifications, and work alongside other disciplines to prepare project documents.
  • Business Development: Participate in proposal development. Act as a DIALOG ambassador by presenting, publishing, and speaking publicly on research and technical innovation topics.
Who you are:
  • Experienced and Passionate: You have an aptitude for specifications and a passion for building science. Editing and writing specifications may have been a part of your regular work duties, or other equivalent experience gained through construction contract administration or project management through administration and interpretation of the specification.
  • Educated and Certified: You hold a degree in architecture or engineering, or a diploma in architectural technology. Certification or a desire to get certified as a Certified Specification Practitioner (CSP) or Registered Specification Writer (RSW) is an asset.
Additional assets that turn our heads:
  • Experience: Specification writing on projects of varying scale, typology and project delivery model; building science expertise; construction contract administration experience. 
  • Awareness: Knowledge of construction specification formats including MasterFormat, UniFormat and SectionFormat, and awareness of OmniClass and its role in BIM.
  • Green Thinking: Knowledge of sustainable products and construction techniques including cradle- to- grave issues, environmentally responsible building products, life cycle assessment methodology, and sustainable certification standards (LEED, WELL, Living Building Challenge). 
  • Who You Know: Your experience within a large professional services organizations and contributions to sharing knowledge with your extended network.
$90,000 - $124,000 a year
At DIALOG, we believe compensation should reflect the unique talent each person brings to our team. We look at annual market data to understand how different roles are compensated in our industry, but we also recognize that your experience, skills, location, and the impact you make all play a part in shaping your total rewards. Because of this, final offers may differ from the ranges listed - we want to make sure everyone is recognized in a manner that is fair, competitive, and true to the value they bring.
This job posting is for an existing vacancy.

Don't meet every single requirement? We still encourage you to apply! We're looking for future DIALOGers who are eager to learn, bring unique perspectives, and want to make a real difference in the world-even if your experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification.
 
Perks & Benefits
Parental leave top-up programs for all parents upon the birth or adoption of a child, RRSP matching, competitive medical and dental benefits coverage upon the first day of employment, discounted memberships, encouraged work/life balance with gifted time off during the holiday season and Vacation Buy-Up program, and reimbursement for professional memberships and dues are just a few of the benefits that DIALOGers enjoy.
 
Professional Development
DIALOG offers continued professional growth through leadership development opportunities specifically designed for our collaborative culture. Among others, some of our programs include: CoachDIALOG which equips our coaches with essential communication and feedback strategies for building great teams; Integrateducation supports DIALOGers in accredited continuing education opportunities; technical skills development via e-learning pathways; and financial support for relevant external learning opportunities. 
 
Equal Opportunity
DIALOG celebrates diversity and is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to an inclusive environment for all, free of discrimination and harassment. Employment-related decisions are made without regard to sex, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, age and race. In accordance with DIALOG's Accommodation Policy, accommodations for people with disabilities are available upon request for candidates throughout the selection process.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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