ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Technical Writer Temporary Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Acara Solutions

System Engineer

Buffalo Grove, IL

$50/hr

Temp (5 months) Industry: Manufacturing Compensation: $50.00/hr. Schedule: 40 hours/week - 1st ... Works with senior engineering personnel, mechanical engineers, lab engineers, technical writer ...

Surge Staffing

Technical & Corporate Sourcer

Rosemont, IL · On-site

$40/hr

Excellent written and verbal communication skills. * Strong organizational skills and attention to ... Temporary Worker Agreement required. Job Details Pay Rate: $30/hour Candidates with strong sourcing ...

USM

ColdFusion Developer

Lombard, IL

USM is recognized as one of the fastest growing IT Temporary Staffing firms in the US and most ... Good communication skills are essential and technical writing skills are valued. Must demonstrate ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTechnical Writer JobsTechnical Writer Temporary JobsTechnical Writer Temporary Jobs in Chicago, IL

Technical Writer Temporary information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$40

$68

How much do technical writer temporary jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for technical writer temporary in Chicago, IL is $40.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.71 and $48.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Technical Writer Temporary vs Technical Writer Permanent?

AspectTechnical Writer TemporaryTechnical Writer Permanent
CredentialsTypically requires a relevant degree or certification in technical communication or related fieldSame as temporary, often with additional experience preferred
Work EnvironmentContract-based, often project-specific, with short-term assignmentsFull-time, ongoing employment within a company or organization
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in industries needing flexible staffing, such as tech, manufacturing, or consultingStandard in organizations seeking long-term documentation staff
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched by those looking for flexible or short-term technical writing rolesOften searched by those seeking stable, long-term employment in technical writing

In summary, a Technical Writer Temporary is hired for short-term projects and offers flexibility, while a Technical Writer Permanent is a full-time employee with ongoing responsibilities. Both roles require similar skills and credentials, but differ mainly in employment type and work duration.

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

To thrive as a Technical Writer Temporary, you need excellent written communication, attention to detail, and the ability to quickly grasp complex technical concepts, usually supported by a degree in English, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as Microsoft Office Suite, content management systems, and documentation tools like MadCap Flare or Adobe FrameMaker is typically required. Strong organizational skills, adaptability, and collaboration make someone stand out in this role. These skills ensure clear, accurate, and user-friendly documentation is delivered efficiently, even in short-term or fast-paced assignments.

What is a technical writer temporary?

Technical Writer Temporary positions are short-term roles where professionals create, edit, and manage technical documentation, manuals, guides, or instructions for products and services. These roles are often project-based and may be needed to address a specific documentation need, product launch, or to cover for permanent staff during absences. Temporary technical writers must quickly learn about the company’s processes and tools, and deliver clear, concise content within tight deadlines. They may work in industries such as software, engineering, healthcare, or manufacturing. Temporary contracts can last from a few weeks to several months, depending on the project's scope.

What are some common challenges faced by technical writers in temporary positions, and how can they be addressed?

Technical Writers in temporary roles often face the challenge of quickly adapting to new teams, tools, and company-specific documentation standards. Since time is limited, it's important to rapidly build relationships with subject matter experts and proactively seek clarifications to fill any knowledge gaps. Staying organized, creating clear outlines, and maintaining open communication with project leads can help ensure deliverables meet expectations within tight deadlines. Emphasizing adaptability and asking for onboarding resources early on can also ease the transition.

What are the most commonly searched types of Technical Writer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Technical Writer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Technical Writer Temporary jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Technical Writer Temporary jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Technical Writer Temporary jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Technical Writer Temporary jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Technical Writer Temporary jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Technical Writer Temporary job openings:

Technical Writer Temporary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Technical Writer Temporary job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,443 per year, or $40.1 per hour.

Technical Writer - Parts Catalog Development

Progress Rail Services Corporation

La Grange, IL • On-site

$57K - $106K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Progress Rail rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

380th of 490 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Job Purpose
Leverage and utilize multiple areas of expertise to develop a Parts Catalog that requires less data mining and less use of material that is difficult to interpret. Work to remove waste, leverage CAD system, reduce cycle time and improve accuracy.
Company Description
Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation-driving the future of rail with a pioneering spirit. Since its founding in 1983, the company has grown to become one of the world's largest and most trusted providers of railroad products, services, and technologies. Today, Progress Rail delivers a comprehensive portfolio of cost-effective solutions to railway customers around the globe. From the rails themselves to the EMD® locomotives that ride them, the company's products are in operation across more than 100 countries-powering progress and connecting communities. In 2006, Progress Rail joined Caterpillar Inc., further strengthening its ability to lead the rail industry with cutting-edge technology, unmatched expertise, and a commitment to excellence. At Progress Rail, the team is not just building the future of rail-they are making history every day.
Education / Training
• High school graduate;
• Associate or Bachelor degree preferred;
• Technical training such as that acquired in the first two years of college or technical school a plus.
Key Job Elements
• Writes and edits content of Parts Catalog;
• Leverage data stored in Teamcenter/NX 3D models;
• Arrange for typing, duplication, and distribution of material;
• Directs photography, retouching and necessary technical artwork production;
• Determines cost-effective means of reproduction;
• Schedules writing, artwork, printing to meet delivery deadlines;
• Frequent contact with others outside the work group;
• Review published materials and recommend revisions or changes in scope, format and content.
Qualifications and Experience
• Product knowledge of locomotive systems including electrical, piping, engine, support systems, rebuild programs, Service Parts engineering and BOM utilization;
• High knowledge of EDL process, Parts Catalog utilization, Teamcenter, Master Model concept, MCR and DCR process, Schematic reading;
• Oral and high level of technical writing skills;
• Relatively high level of analytical ability where problems are complex;
• Some English skills desirable, particularly with respect to spelling, proofreading and correct language usage;
• Medium level of interpersonal skills to work effectively with others.
Essential and Physical Activities Functions
• Strength - Position typically involves work in a standard office environment. Occasional standing and walking. Light lifting rare but may be required;
• Motion - Position regularly requires standard repetitive motions and hand/eye coordination associated with office communications. May require bending, lifting, standing, climbing, kneeling, crouching, walking, etc.;
• Vision/Hearing Requirements - Constant verbal communications, including both talking and hearing;
• Work Environment - Position is primarily office environment setting. May involve occasional work in a non-temperature-controlled facility;
• Positi on may require occasional visits to industrial environment, including potential for noise (85+
decibels), frequent exposure to cold and temperature changes;
• Emotional Demands - Responsible for audits and reporting. Requires interpersonal skills and
communication;
• Safety - Position required to follow all safety guidelines and requirements
Benefits
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance, and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Progress Rail.**
  • Competitive Salary
  • 401(k) plan with up to 6% company match (no waiting period with immediate vesting)
  • Medical/Dental/Vision/Life/Disability Insurance
  • Supplemental Accident, Critical Care, and Hospital Insurance available along with an HDHP and HSA with seed money
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time-Off (PTO)
  • Employee Assistance Plan
  • Education Assistance Program
  • Employee Recognition Programs
  • Site specific Production and Incentive Plans
  • Site specific Step and Skill Level Wage Adjustment Plans
  • Site Specific Relocation and Sign-on Bonus Programs

*Benefits eligibility varies by job position, full-time/part-time and regular/temporary status. The provisions of the plan documents control such benefits.
**Subject to position, eligibility, and plan guidelines.

What Progress Rail employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Progress Rail logo

About Progress Rail

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our team works hard to create lifelong customer relationships, supplying comprehensive rolling stock and infrastructure solutions for the global rail industry and setting the standard for excellence. We care about fostering the sustainable movement of goods and people for generations to come, and we know our customers care, too. Our strategic footprint ensures responsive, quality customer support all day, every day. We are one of the largest integrated diversified providers of rolling stock and infrastructure solutions and technologies for the global rail industry. The company provides advanced EMD® locomotives, engines, and technologies, railcars, trackwork, fasteners, signaling, rail welding and Kershaw® Maintenance-of-Way equipment, along with dedicated locomotive and freight car repair services, aftermarket parts support and recycling operations. Progress Rail’s deep industry expertise ensures a commitment to quality through innovative solutions.

Industry

Consumer goods and commercial equipment rental services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Albertville, AL, US

Year founded

1983

View All Progress Rail Jobs

Apply