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Contract Technical Writer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

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Contract Technical Writer information

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$104.6K

$115.7K

$124.6K

How much do contract technical writer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract technical writer in Colorado is $115,666.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,400.00 and $120,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Technical Writer jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Technical Writer jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Contract Technical Writer jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Contract Technical Writer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Technical Writer jobs in CO? For Contract Technical Writer jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Contract Technical Writer job openings in Colorado 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, with an average salary of $115,666 per year, or $55.6 per hour.

Instructional System Development Technical Writer

Sigmatech, Inc.

Colorado Springs, CO

$100K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Sigmatech is seeking highly motivated individuals who are experienced in Technical Writing and can support the DoW's Instructional Systems Development (ISD) processes.

In this role, contractors will assist in the development of capabilities-based requirements for ISD efforts in support of Space Control mission areas ensuring instructional requirements are doctrinally sound and technically mapped to Space Control capabilities

This Technical Writer will assist both ISD Analysts and the government customer in drafting, refining, reviewing, and publishing the operational Training System Requirements Analysis (TSRA) documentation to support Capabilities-Based Assessment for multiple Space Control capabilities assigned to Mission Delta 3 and Mission Delta 9. Contractors will ensure documentation accurately captures integrate constraints/variables from the applicable Mission Area Requirements Document, Enterprise Requirements Documents, Training Planning Teams, Combat Force Component Fielding Processes, and/or other DOTmLPF-P change recommendations into the TSRA.

In addition to TSRA development, contractors will generate Systems Training Plans (STP) for space control capabilities; identifying instructional requirements, recommending solutions, projecting resource requirements to support programing and budget justification during PPBE cycles.


Experience with Suite of Microsoft applications (Word, Power Point, Excel, etc.)

Previous DoW Instructional System Development and System Training Plans to include familiarity with:

  • DAFPD 36-26, Total Force Development and Management
  • MIL-HDBK 29612-2A
  • DAFH 36-2675
  • DAFPD 13-6, Nuclear, Space, Missile, Command and Control Operations
  • AFPD 63-1/20-1, Integrated Life Cycl

5+ years experience in DoW systems training or Technical Writing

Previous Special Access Program experience (preferred)

Bachelor's Degree or Higher in Technical or Related Field

In compliance with Colorado's Equal Pay for Equal Work Act, the salary range for this role is $100,000 to $125,000; however, Sigmatech considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, experience, education/training, key skills, location and often contractual requirements.
EEO employer

** job is contingent upon contract award**