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Technical Editing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Prolim Global

TECHNICAL EDITOR AND WRITER 3

San Diego, CA · On-site

$101.89/hr

Excellent technical writing and editing skills. * Strong attention to technical accuracy, consistency, and document layout. * Proficiency with: * Microsoft Word * Microsoft PowerPoint * Microsoft ...

Stanfordlivetickets

Technical Writer

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory seeks a Policy and Technical Writer/Editor to support the development, maintenance, and continuous improvement of laboratory-level policies, procedures, forms ...

FedWriters, Inc.

Technical Editor

Camp Pendleton, CA · On-site

Experience writing, revising, editing, formatting, and maintaining contract documents such as PWS, QASP, and CDRLs * Experience creating and maintaining technical document templates, including ...

FedWriters, Inc.

Technical Editor

Camp Pendleton, CA · On-site

Experience writing, revising, editing, formatting, and maintaining contract documents such as PWS, QASP, and CDRLs * Experience creating and maintaining technical document templates, including ...

FedWriters, Inc.

Technical Editor

Camp Pendleton, CA · On-site

$81K - $88K/yr

Experience writing, revising, editing, formatting, and maintaining contract documents such as PWS, QASP, and CDRLs * Experience creating and maintaining technical document templates, including ...

PACE Engineering, Inc.

Technical Editor

Redding, CA · On-site

... editing because they know it strengthens every proposal, report, manual, and technical document that leaves our office. This is meaningful work for someone who enjoys learning new technical subjects ...

Belcan

Technical Editor and Writer 3

San Diego, CA · On-site

$67.93/hr

Responsibilities include but are not limited to: · Editing plans, technical reports, test procedures, statements of work, user manuals, operation manuals, requirement specifications, validation ...

Belcan

Technical Editor and Writer 3

San Diego, CA · On-site

$67.93/hr

Responsibilities include but are not limited to: • Editing plans, technical reports, test procedures, statements of work, user manuals, operation manuals, requirement specifications, validation ...

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Technical Editing information

See California salary details

$34.5K

$70.8K

$111.5K

How much do technical editing jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for technical editing in California is $70,849.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,800.00 and $83,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is technical editing?

Technical editing involves reviewing and revising technical documents to ensure they are clear, accurate, and consistent. Technical editors check for grammatical errors, formatting issues, and compliance with style guides, as well as verify technical accuracy. They often work on documents like manuals, scientific papers, reports, and user guides to make them accessible to their intended audience. The role may also involve collaborating with writers, subject matter experts, and designers to produce high-quality materials.

How do technical editors typically collaborate with subject matter experts (SMEs) during the document development process?

Technical editors work closely with subject matter experts (SMEs) to ensure that complex information is accurately and clearly conveyed. This collaboration often involves reviewing drafts, asking clarifying questions, and providing feedback on structure, terminology, and readability. Editors may participate in meetings or use collaborative tools to resolve ambiguities and confirm technical accuracy. Effective communication and relationship-building with SMEs are key to producing high-quality documentation that meets both technical and user needs.

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

To thrive as a Technical Editor, you need expertise in language, grammar, and style, often backed by a degree in English, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with editing tools such as Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat, content management systems (CMS), and style guides like APA or Chicago Manual is typically expected. Attention to detail, adaptability, and strong collaboration skills help ensure clarity and consistency in technical documents. These skills are crucial for producing accurate, user-friendly materials that support organizational goals and uphold professional standards.

What is the difference between Technical Editing vs Technical Writing?

AspectTechnical EditingTechnical Writing
Primary FocusReviewing and refining technical content for clarity, accuracy, and consistencyCreating and developing technical content from scratch or based on specifications
Skills RequiredEditing, proofreading, knowledge of style guides, attention to detailWriting, research, technical knowledge, communication skills
Work EnvironmentOften in publishing, engineering, or software companies; involves collaboration with writers and subject matter expertsInvolves drafting documents, manuals, guides; often in similar industries

Technical editing and technical writing are closely related roles within the technical communication field. While technical editors focus on refining and ensuring the quality of technical content, technical writers are responsible for creating that content. Both roles require strong technical knowledge and attention to detail, but their core activities differ: editing versus writing.

How to become a technical editor?

To become a technical editor, typically a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as engineering, science, or technology is required. Gaining experience in technical writing and developing strong editing skills, along with proficiency in editing tools and knowledge of industry standards, is essential. Certifications like the Certified Professional Technical Communicator (CPTC) can also enhance job prospects.

What are popular job titles related to Technical Editing jobs in California?

For Technical Editing jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Technical Editing jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Technical Editing jobs in California are:

Technical Editing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Technical Editing job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,849 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

TECHNICAL EDITOR AND WRITER 3

San Diego, CA • On-site

PROLIM Global Corporation
IT Services • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about PROLIM Global Corporationexternal

$101.89/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

TECHNICAL EDITOR AND WRITER 3
Company: Northrop Grumman Corporation
Job ID: 1896
Position: Principal Technical Editor / Writer
Location: San Diego, CA - Rancho Carmel Facility
Worksite: 100% Onsite
Contract: Contract Only
Duration: September 28, 2026 - September 27, 2027
Schedule: 9/80 A
Hours: 40 hours/week
Bill Rate: $101.89/hour
Openings: 1
Security Clearance: Current DoD Secret required; ability to obtain and maintain SAP clearance
U.S. Citizenship: Required
POSITION OVERVIEW
Northrop Grumman's Mission Systems Sector is seeking a Principal Technical Editor / Writer to support the development and maintenance of technical publications for a large defense program.
The selected candidate will create, edit, maintain, and coordinate a variety of technical and program documentation while working closely with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), Configuration Management, Quality Mission Assurance, program leadership, and customers.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Edit and maintain technical plans, reports, and program documentation.
  • Edit test procedures, statements of work, user manuals, and operation manuals.
  • Review and edit requirements specifications, validation documents, and proposal volumes.
  • Work with SMEs to ensure technical documentation is accurate, clear, and consistent.
  • Collaborate with Configuration Management and Quality Mission Assurance on document publication and delivery.
  • Capture meeting minutes and action items for Technical Exchange Meetings (TEMs) and design reviews.
  • Develop and maintain program plans and process documentation.
  • Ensure documentation meets program requirements, quality standards, and established deadlines.
  • Manage multiple documentation assignments and priorities simultaneously.
  • Interface effectively with employees, management, technical personnel, and customers.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree with 5 years of related experience, OR
  • Master's degree with 3 years of related experience, OR
  • PhD with 1 year of related experience.
  • Current DoD Secret clearance.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Special Access Program (SAP) clearance.
  • Experience developing and maintaining program plans and process documents.
  • Experience working with SMEs to improve and clarify technical documentation.
  • Excellent technical writing and editing skills.
  • Strong attention to technical accuracy, consistency, and document layout.
  • Proficiency with:
    • Microsoft Word
    • Microsoft PowerPoint
    • Microsoft Excel
    • Microsoft Visio
    • SharePoint
    • Adobe Acrobat
  • Strong organizational and multitasking skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Understanding of contractual requirements, including SOWs and Data Item Descriptions (DIDs).
  • Configuration Management experience.
  • Knowledge of Security Classification Guides (SCGs) and document portion marking.
  • Proposal development experience.
  • Experience authoring Basis of Estimates (BOEs).
  • Experience editing technical proposal volumes.
  • Experience with Agile frameworks and Jira best practices.
  • Defense or aerospace industry experience.
PRIMARY SKILLS
Technical Writing | Technical Editing | Technical Documentation | Microsoft Word | PowerPoint | Excel | Visio | SharePoint | Adobe Acrobat | Configuration Management | SOWs | DIDs | SCGs | Proposal Writing | BOEs | SME Coordination | Document Publication | Agile | Jira
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
  • U.S. Citizenship: Required
  • Clearance: Current DoD Secret
  • SAP: Must be able to obtain and maintain
  • Work Location: Fully onsite in San Diego, CA
  • Work Schedule: 9/80 A
  • Contract Duration: 12 months

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