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Software Writer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Parallel Systems

Senior Software Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$132K - $174K/yr

Develop and maintain system-level software written primarily in Rust. * Optimize existing codebases for scalability, performance, and reliability. * Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ...

LRS

Software Engineer, Intern

Waukesha, WI

$23.50/hr

Write, review, and maintain code and documentation that follows established standards for quality ... Software Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.

Writer

AI engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$167K - $328K/yr

Demonstrated ability to write clean, efficient, and well-tested code for scalable software systems. * Exceptional problem-solving skills and a passion for tackling complex technical challenges with ...

Neocis, Inc.

Software Engineer - Application

Miami, FL · On-site

Write well-designed, testable code and unit tests for that code * Maintain, upgrade, and improve the performance of existing application software * Perform design and code reviews of code developed ...

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How much do software writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for software writer in the United States is $38.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.85 and $47.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is technical writing replaced by AI?

Technical writing, including roles like software writers, is increasingly supported by AI tools that assist with drafting, editing, and formatting content. However, human expertise remains essential for ensuring clarity, accuracy, and context-specific communication, making AI a complement rather than a complete replacement in technical writing jobs.

How do Software Writers typically collaborate with developers and product teams during the documentation process?

Software Writers work closely with developers, product managers, and sometimes quality assurance teams to gather accurate technical details and ensure documentation aligns with product functionality. Collaboration often involves attending sprint meetings, reviewing new features, and conducting interviews with subject matter experts. This teamwork helps Software Writers create clear, user-focused documentation that evolves with the software. Open communication and regular feedback cycles are essential to keep documentation up-to-date and relevant.

Are tech writers in demand?

Technical writers, including software writers, are in steady demand due to the ongoing need for clear documentation, user manuals, and technical content across industries. Strong writing skills, familiarity with tools like Markdown or XML, and understanding of software development processes enhance employability in this field.

What is a Software Writer?

A Software Writer is a professional who creates documentation, manuals, and guides that explain how software products work. They translate complex technical information into clear, user-friendly content for a variety of audiences, including end users, developers, and administrators. Software Writers may also work closely with software engineers, product managers, and designers to ensure accuracy and usability of the documentation. Their work can include online help files, API documentation, tutorials, and release notes.

What is the difference between Software Writer vs Technical Writer?

AspectSoftware WriterTechnical Writer
CredentialsTypically requires programming knowledge, coding skills, and sometimes a degree in computer science or related fieldsRequires strong writing skills, technical knowledge, often a degree in technical communication, English, or related fields
Work EnvironmentOften works in software development teams, coding environments, or tech companiesWorks in various industries, including tech, engineering, and manufacturing, often in office settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by software companies, startups, and tech firms to create user guides, documentation, and code commentsEmployed across industries to produce manuals, user guides, and technical documentation

While both roles involve technical communication, Software Writers focus on creating content related to software development, including code and technical documentation, often requiring programming skills. Technical Writers produce a broader range of technical documents across industries, emphasizing clarity and user understanding without necessarily coding. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Software Writer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Writer, you need strong technical writing skills, a solid understanding of software development concepts, and often a relevant degree in English, communications, or computer science. Familiarity with documentation tools like Markdown, DITA, or Confluence, and experience using version control systems such as Git, are typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, the ability to explain complex topics clearly, and effective collaboration with engineers and product teams are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure that technical documentation is accurate, user-friendly, and supports both developers and end-users in understanding complex software products.

How much do software writers make?

Software writers, also known as software developers or programmers, typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $120,000 depending on experience, location, and specialization. Entry-level positions generally start lower, while experienced developers with skills in specific programming languages or tools can earn higher salaries, especially in high-demand markets.

What does a software writer do?

A software writer creates, tests, and maintains code for software applications, focusing on writing clear and efficient programming scripts. They often work with programming languages such as Python, Java, or C++, and collaborate with developers and designers to develop functional software solutions.
More about Software Writer jobs
What states have the most Software Writer jobs? States with the most job openings for Software Writer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Software Writer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Software Writer jobs are:
Software Writer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Writer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Internship, and 50% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $81,001 per year, or $38.9 per hour.
Senior Writer/Editor

Senior Writer/Editor

Software Engineering Institute

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 hours ago

Job description

Senior Writer/Editor
About the role
Do you love to address structural challenges in writing and craft words and paragraphs that engage the reader? Do you excel at improving technical writing through rigorous copyediting and the use of precise language? Would you like to work with leaders in the fields of software engineering, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence (AI) on projects that matter to the Department of War (DoW), government agencies, and private industry?
We're looking for a Senior Writer/Editor to join our Technical Communications team at the Software Engineering Institute (SEI) to write and edit technical content for reports, the SEI website, blogs, and presentations. You will collaborate with SEI researchers, engineers, and other subject-matter experts to gather complex technical information and prepare it for distribution to different audiences, from technical experts to lay readers. You will manage the content through all stages of the writing process from inception to completion, including drafting stages, but also through multi-author editing stages where you will play a central role in ensuring clarity, optimal organization, unity of voice, grammatical correctness, and adherence to style standards.
What you'll do
  • Edit formal technical reports at all editorial levels, including substantive editing, copyediting, and proofreading. Correct grammar, punctuation, syntax, usage, capitalization, citations, formatting, and style-guide inconsistencies with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
  • Apply and enforce editorial standards and style-guide conventions consistently across long-form, highly technical, multi-author documents.
  • Write technical content and stories for the SEI website, Year in Review, and other communication channels.
  • Collaborate with technical staff to write blog posts about technical topics.
  • Write and edit brief articles and marketing materials.
  • Write and edit web content, video scripts, and content for other electronic media.
  • Collaborate with SEI Communication Design, Web Services, Public Relations, and Outreach teams on publications, presentations, web pages, information graphics, and event materials.
  • Plan, manage, schedule, and track your project tasks.

Who you are
  • You have at least five years of experience in writing and editing.
  • You can both develop original content and perform meticulous line-by-line editing of complex documents.
  • You have exceptional copyediting and proofreading skills, including mastery of grammar, punctuation, syntax, usage, and consistency in technical and formal writing.
  • You are committed to customer service for subject-matter experts, but you are also a strong advocate for their readers.
  • You have a keen eye for detail and a strong focus on quality and adherence to a style guide.
  • You have strong organizational, time management, and project management skills and can prioritize multiple responsibilities.
  • You have the social skills to interview subject-matter experts or work closely with them to plan and develop written technical materials.
  • You have experience with complex subjects-preferably, but not necessarily, in software or science-and can learn new topics quickly.
  • You have experience in research writing or long-form documentation, such as academic articles and reports.
  • You have significant experience with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Word and PowerPoint.
  • You can work with minimal or no supervision, but you also participate in team decision making.
  • You are willing to travel within the SEI and CMU community-and occasionally to sponsor sites, conferences, and offsite meetings-to support the SEI's mission (<5%).
  • You will be subject to a background investigation and must be able to obtain and maintain a Department of War security clearance.

You might also have experience in
  • an academic or technical research setting
  • documenting software
  • marketing writing for a technical or DoW audience
  • coordinating with others to meet service-level agreements for projects
  • issue- and project-tracking software
  • website content-management systems
  • accessibility or 508 compliance
  • learning a markup language or using LaTeX or other document-preparation systems

How to apply
With your resume, please also upload
  • a short article or marketing piece that demonstrates your writing skills
  • a text sample that demonstrates detailed editorial markup

A cover letter is optional but can expand on your work history and explain how it aligns with the job description.
Final candidates will complete a copyediting assessment that evaluates grammar, punctuation, consistency, clarity, and adherence to editorial standards.
Who we are
Always focused on the future, the SEI advances software as a strategic advantage for national security. We lead research and direct transition of software engineering, cybersecurity, and AI technologies at the intersection of academia, industry, and government. We serve the nation as a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) sponsored by the DoW and are based at Carnegie Mellon University, a global research university annually rated among the best for its programs in computer science and engineering. Learn more about Careers at the SEI.
The Technical Communications team helps the SEI's subject-matter experts inform our sponsor and the public about the research, methods, products, and services developed at the SEI.
Our benefits
Our benefits philosophy encompasses three driving priorities: choice, control, and well-being. Through Carnegie Mellon University, the SEI offers a wide range of competitive employee benefits to help you live well, including comprehensive health insurance, tuition benefits, and a generous PTO and retirement-savings policy to name a few.
To learn more, visit these resources:
  • Why Carnegie Mellon: Learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.
  • Benefits at a Glance: Get a listing of all employee benefits.
  • Staff Member Benefits: Get detailed information about benefits for employees who are not faculty.

Why work here?
  • Work with subject-matter experts doing cutting-edge research to solve tough problems for the government and the nation.
  • Join an experienced, knowledgeable, and friendly team.
  • Get an 8% monthly contribution to your retirement plan, without having to contribute yourself.
  • Get tuition benefits for you and your dependent children to attend classes at CMU.
  • Enjoy a healthy work/life balance with a flexible work arrangement.
  • Get access to university resources such as campus fitness facilities, mindfulness programs, childcare, free transportation on the Port Authority Transit System, and more.
  • Enjoy annual professional-development opportunities to attend conferences and training or get a certification.

Location
Pittsburgh, PA
Job Function
Communications
Position Type
Staff - Regular
Full time/Part time
Full time
Pay Basis
SalaryMore Information:
  • Please visit "Why Carnegie Mellon" to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.
  • Click here to view a listing of employee benefits
  • Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.
  • Statement of Assurance

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