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Freelance Engineering Technical Writer Jobs in Iowa

Varsity Tutors

Technical Writing Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes clarity, conciseness, and accuracy in conveying complex information and connects technical writing to software development, engineering, healthcare, and scientific communication ...

Varsity Tutors

Technical Writing Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes clarity, conciseness, and accuracy in conveying complex information and connects technical writing to software development, engineering, healthcare, and scientific communication ...

McClure

Water Engineering Technician

Sioux City, IA · On-site

Strong knowledge of CAD and other Engineering/Technical skills * Strong knowledge of project design ... Effective oral and written communication skills * Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills ...

McClure Engineering Co

Senior Traffic Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$97K - $134K/yr

Strong knowledge of professional liability, quality procedures, and other Engineering/Technical ... Effective oral and written communication skills. * Excellent interpersonal and organizational ...

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Freelance Engineering Technical Writer information

What is a freelance engineering technical writer?

A Freelance Engineering Technical Writer is a professional who creates technical documents, manuals, guides, reports, and other materials related to engineering concepts, products, or processes on a contract or project basis. They work independently rather than as full-time employees and may collaborate with engineers, product managers, and subject matter experts to ensure accuracy and clarity. Their work helps make complex engineering information accessible to various audiences, including engineers, technicians, and end-users. Freelance technical writers often work for multiple clients across different industries and may specialize in areas like mechanical, electrical, or software engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance engineering technical writer?

To thrive as a Freelance Engineering Technical Writer, you need a solid understanding of engineering concepts, excellent written communication skills, and often a relevant engineering or technical degree. Familiarity with documentation tools like Microsoft Word, LaTeX, Adobe FrameMaker, and proficiency in using reference management systems or engineering software is typically required. Strong research abilities, attention to detail, and the ability to convey complex information clearly are essential soft skills. These skills ensure technical accuracy, effective communication with diverse audiences, and the timely delivery of high-quality documentation.

How do freelance engineering technical writers typically manage collaboration with subject matter experts when working remotely?

Freelance engineering technical writers frequently work with subject matter experts (SMEs) through virtual meetings, email, and collaborative platforms like Slack or Microsoft Teams. Effective communication is key, as writers must clarify complex technical details, request documentation, and review drafts with SMEs, often across different time zones. Building strong relationships and setting clear expectations early in the project helps streamline feedback and ensures accuracy in the final deliverables. Flexibility and proactive communication are essential to overcome challenges associated with remote collaboration.

What is the difference between Freelance Engineering Technical Writer vs Technical Writer?

AspectFreelance Engineering Technical WriterTechnical Writer
CredentialsRelevant engineering or technical background, certifications optionalVaries; often includes writing or communication certifications
Work EnvironmentIndependent, remote, project-basedIn-house or remote, employed by organizations
Industry UsagePrimarily in engineering, manufacturing, tech sectorsAcross multiple industries including tech, healthcare, finance

Freelance Engineering Technical Writers focus on creating technical documentation for engineering projects on a contract basis, often working independently. In contrast, Technical Writers may be employed full-time within organizations across various industries. While both roles require strong writing skills, Freelance Engineering Technical Writers typically have specialized engineering knowledge and work remotely on specific projects, whereas Technical Writers may have broader industry experience and work within a team environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineering Technical Writer jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Engineering Technical Writer jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Engineering Technical Writer jobs in Iowa?

For Freelance Engineering Technical Writer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Engineering Technical Writer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Engineering Technical Writer jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Freelance Engineering Technical Writer jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Freelance Engineering Technical Writer job openings:

Freelance Engineering Technical Writer jobs near you

Technical Writing Specialist

Pella Corporation

Pella, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Pella rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 133 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

231st of 545 rated manufacturers

Job description


Technical Writer
Pella, Iowa (hybrid)
As a Technical Writer, you will transform complex technical information into clear, accurate, and user-friendly documentation that supports customers and internal teams. Your publications will reach a broad audience and may include installation guides, service manuals, owner's manuals, assembly instructions, and other technical documents.
In this role, you will collaborate closely with engineering, product management, product marketing, service, legal, and other cross-functional partners to ensure all publications are complete, current, and aligned with organizational standards. You will help users install, operate, and service window and door products while contributing to improved customer experience and consistent product understanding.
This position is ideal for someone who enjoys ownership of their work, thrives in a collaborative environment, and seeks opportunities to enhance the processes and standards of technical publications.
While the responsibilities may vary slightly, the position will likely include varying levels of the following activities:
  • Develop, edit, and standardize technical content to ensure clarity, accuracy, and consistency across all publications.
  • Participate in installation and service procedures to document and validate technical processes, specifications, and product details.
  • Manage multiple writing projects simultaneously, communicating risks, and identifying solutions as needed to meet deadlines.
  • Manage production timelines, subject matter expert reviews, and product schedule to meet launch deadlines.
  • Organize material and apply established standards for formatting, terminology, grammar, style, and information architecture.
  • Request illustrations, photographs, diagrams, and other graphic materials to support content clarity and comprehension.
  • Deliver completed publications to print vendors, digital platforms, translators, and internal systems, maintaining clear documentation of delivery details.
  • Work both independently and collaboratively, adjusting quickly to shifting priorities.
  • Analyze technical content to identify gaps, propose improvements and anticipate emerging documentation needs.

TRAVEL
The position will require some travel (approx. 10 percent).
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and/or technical background, with the ability to understand and translate complex technical concepts.
  • Exceptional writing, editing, and critical-thinking skills with attention to detail.
  • Excellent interpersonal and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with engineers, product teams, and leadership.
  • Proven ability to manage schedules, multi-task, prioritize effectively, and react quickly to changing project needs.
  • Experience collaborating with designers to develop supporting visuals preferred.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
Bachelor's degree (B.A. or B.S.) or technical equivalent in journalism, science writing, English, technical communication or a related field. 3-5 years or an equivalent combination of education and experience considered.
COMPUTER SKILLS
Proficiency with documentation and productivity tools including Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), and familiarity with RoboHead a plus.
WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE
  • You consistently produce high-quality, user-centric documentation that supports internal workflows and enhances the customer experience.
  • You proactively identify improvements to content, workflows and documentation standards.
  • You build strong working relationships across engineering, marketing, service and project teams.
  • You help streamline how technical information is captured, organized and communicated across the organization.

About Us
About Pella Corporation
As the #1 most-preferred national window and door brand by homeowners across the country, Pella Corporation leads the industry in innovation and design. Founded in 1925, today the Pella Family of Brands encompasses a robust product offering sold and installed through various channels. We are a growing, privately owned company with 20 manufacturing locations and over 10,000 team members in the U.S. and Canada. Pella is consistently recognized as a great place to work by Newsweek, Forbes and Glassdoor, having most recently been named to America's Greatest Workplaces for Diversity by Newsweek in 2024, as well as Forbes' 2024 Best Employers for Women and Best-In-State Employer in Iowa. We have also received numerous accolades for innovation and design, including Fast Company's Best Workplaces for Innovators in 2024 and Most Innovative Manufacturers for 2022 and 2023.
At Pella, our team cares deeply, learns continuously and achieves results that go beyond. We encourage creative thinking that seeks out and includes diverse perspectives. And we empower you to do the work you're most proud of - that's why we offer individualized talent development plans, cross-functional experiences and opportunities for career advancement through personal and professional development.
With talent just like you, we are imagining, building and fighting for a brighter future for generations to come. Ready to find a career that sparks your passion?

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About Pella

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pella Corporation, headquartered in Pella, IA, is an innovative leader in creating a better view for homes and businesses by designing, testing, manufacturing, and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling, and replacement applications. Founded in 1925, Pella is a family-owned and professionally managed privately held company, known for its history of innovation, making outstanding products, providing quality service, and delivering on customer satisfaction. The company is committed to incorporating new technologies, increasing productivity, and practicing environmental stewardship.

Industry

Building materials and garden equipment dealers

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Pella, IA, US

Year founded

1925

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