1

Temporary Software Technical Writer Jobs in California

Turn complex hardware, software, and network concepts into clear, user-friendly documentation ... technical concepts * Excellent writing, interviewing, and analytical skills * Ability to ...

Technical Writer

Mojave, CA · On-site

$65K - $105K/yr

REQUIRED * 5+ years' experience working with documentation publishing and/or management software ... Technical Writer ($52,000-$84,700) * Sr. Technical Writer ($65,000-$105,800) * Lead Technical ...

Technical Writer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$91K - $109K/yr

We are seeking a Technical Writer with experience producing clear, accurate documentation for complex software and hardware systems. This role involves working both independently and with engineers ...

Turn complex hardware, software, and network concepts into clear, user-friendly documentation ... technical concepts * Excellent writing, interviewing, and analytical skills * Ability to ...

Technical Writer

Brisbane, CA · On-site

$36 - $45/hr

... or software platforms. * A portfolio of writing samples that demonstrate technical documentation and creative writing skills. * Experience with technical documentation, specifically within ERP or ...

Technical Writer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Keep technical documentation on projects according to ISO 9001/13485 quality management system ... Software Knowledge and Skills Required: * Adobe Software * Ability to utilize a database or write ...

Technical Writer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Keep technical documentation on projects according to ISO 9001/13485 quality management system ... Software Knowledge and Skills Required: * Adobe Software * Ability to utilize a database or write ...

The Technical Writer will create and manage technical documentation while ensuring compliance with ... authoring software including Word, FrameMaker and Arbortext Editor, Etc.. • Train company ...

Technical Writer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$91K - $109K/yr

We are seeking a Technical Writer with experience producing clear, accurate documentation for complex software and hardware systems. This role involves working both independently and with engineers ...

Technical Writer Location: San Diego, CA - Some flexibility on remote, but mostly need to be ... Software Skills Required: Microsoft Office Preferred Skills (Nice to have) * Cloud PLM (Oracle ...

Technical Writer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

TECHNICAL WRITER - EL SEGUNDO, CA RESPONSIBILITIES: * Interact cross functionally with engineers ... Support documentation alignment with version control software, release systems, and Docs-as-Code ...

Technical writers in the Content Experience organization at Salesforce produce documentation and ... Experience documenting software * Experience with video and image editing software (Camtasia)

... software documentation (user manuals and online help). GPA of 3.5 or above in Technical Communication, English, Journalism, or other related field. Excellent oral and written communication skills.

... software documentation (user manuals and online help). GPA of 3.5 or above in Technical Communication, English, Journalism, or other related field. Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering or another STEM-related field. * 2+ years of experience as a Technical Writer supporting software products, APIs, developer platforms, or enterprise ...

About the Role The Technical Writer scopes, revises and drafts a variety of patient-facing ... Please note that "regular employees" refers to those who are not temporary staff, such as interns ...

New

Showing results 21-40

Temporary Software Technical Writer information

How to get a job as a temporary software technical writer with no experience?

To secure a temporary software technical writer position with no experience, focus on developing basic writing skills, understanding software concepts, and learning tools like Markdown or HTML. Building a portfolio with sample documentation or tutorials can also demonstrate your ability to communicate technical information effectively.

What is a temporary software technical writer?

Temporary software technical writers are professionals hired on a short-term basis to create, edit, or update technical documentation for software products. Their work can include user manuals, API documentation, installation guides, and help files. These writers collaborate with software developers, engineers, and product managers to ensure complex technical information is clearly communicated to end users or internal teams. Temporary positions may last for the duration of a specific project or to cover peak workloads, making flexibility and adaptability important skills for these roles.

What is the difference between Temporary Software Technical Writer vs Contract Software Developer?

AspectTemporary Software Technical WriterContract Software Developer
CredentialsTechnical writing certifications, familiarity with software documentation toolsProgramming skills, relevant coding certifications
Work EnvironmentOffice or remote, focused on documentation projectsOffice or remote, focused on coding and software development
Industry UsageTech companies, software firms, IT departmentsTech companies, software firms, IT departments
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding documentation roles, project-based workUnderstanding coding roles, project-based development

The main difference is that Temporary Software Technical Writers focus on creating and editing technical documentation, while Contract Software Developers are responsible for coding and developing software solutions. Both roles are project-based, often require industry-specific skills, and are common in tech environments.

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

To thrive as a Temporary Software Technical Writer, you need strong writing, editing, and technical comprehension skills, often supported by experience in software documentation or a related field. Familiarity with documentation tools such as MadCap Flare, Adobe FrameMaker, or DITA XML, and sometimes knowledge of version control systems like Git, is typically required. Excellent communication, adaptability, and time management are vital soft skills for collaborating with developers and meeting tight project deadlines. These skills ensure clear, accurate documentation that supports user understanding and project success within limited contract timeframes.

What are the most common challenges faced by temporary software technical writers, and how can they overcome them?

Temporary software technical writers often face the challenge of quickly getting up to speed with complex products and integrated teams in a limited timeframe. They may also encounter incomplete or evolving documentation and rapidly changing project priorities. To overcome these hurdles, it's important to proactively communicate with engineers and product managers, ask clarifying questions, and make use of any available onboarding materials. Leveraging project management tools to track tasks and documentation progress can also help ensure deadlines are met and deliverables align with team expectations.

Are temporary software technical writers still in demand?

Temporary software technical writers are still in demand as companies seek flexible staffing for documentation projects, especially with the growth of remote work and digital products. Skills in tools like Markdown, XML, and content management systems remain valuable, and many organizations hire contract writers to meet project deadlines without long-term commitments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Software Technical Writer jobs in California? The most popular types of Software Technical Writer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Temporary Software Technical Writer jobs? Cities in California with the most Temporary Software Technical Writer job openings:

Technical Writer

Viasat, Inc.

Carlsbad, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Viasat rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 97 rated telecommunications companies


Job description

About us
One team. Global challenges. Infinite opportunities. At Viasat, we're on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate. We're looking for people who think big, act fearlessly, and create an inclusive environment that drives positive impact to join our team.
What you'll do
We're looking for a Technical Writer who wants more than a documentation role-someone who will be embed directly with our Secure Network Systems (SNS) engineering team, helping shape how complex systems are understood, delivered, and maintained.
In this role, you will:
  • Turn complex hardware, software, and network concepts into clear, user-friendly documentation
  • Create and maintain guides like installation manuals, system architecture docs, and data flow diagrams
  • Collaborate directly with engineers, program managers, and cross-functional teams
  • Help shape documentation standards and improve how we share knowledge across teams
  • Work with modern tools and platforms (Agile workflows, wikis, repositories, and more)
  • Enable engineering teams to deliver faster and more efficiently through clear, high-quality documentation
  • Translate complex systems (networking, security, hardware/software) into accessible, actionable content

Serve as a trusted partner to engineers and program managers.
Career Growth
This role offers the opportunity to:
  • Grow into a documentation lead or strategist
  • Build expertise in secure communications and advanced networking systems
  • Mentor other writers and shape documentation best practices
  • Expand influence across programs and engineering organizations

The day-to-day
What You'll Do
  • Create and maintain technical documentation, including:
    • Installation, operation, and maintenance manuals
    • Security configurations and plans
    • System architecture and interface documentation
    • Data flow diagrams and technical deliverables
  • Collaborate closely with engineers and program teams to gather, interpret, and validate technical information
  • Lead documentation efforts across multiple projects within the Secure Network Systems (SNS) organization
  • Establish and enforce documentation standards aligned with industry frameworks (DoD, NIST, ISO)
  • Manage and organize content across documentation tools and repositories (e.g., wikis, SharePoint, version-controlled systems)
  • Support Agile development environments and evolving technical requirements

This is an embedded role. You'll work directly within engineering teams-building context quickly, establishing trust, and playing a key role in how work gets delivered.
Why This Role Is Unique
  • Mission impact - Your work supports secure communications used in real-world, high-stakes environments
  • Embedded collaboration - Work directly within engineering teams, not as a detached service organization
  • Ownership & Influence - Lead documentation strategy and execution for key programs
  • Cross-functional exposure - Collaborate with engineers, architects, and program leaders
  • Portfolio-building & Variety - Create documentation you'll be proud to show, ranging a broad variety of content types and subjects

What you'll need
Requirements
  • Current Security Clearance
  • Willingness to work onsite in Carlsbad and collaborate across teams

Required Qualifications
  • Experience creating technical documentation for software, hardware, or networked systems
  • Strong curiosity and the ability to understand and communicate complex technical concepts
  • Excellent writing, interviewing, and analytical skills
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with engineering and program teams
  • Strong ability to work independently and maintain deadlines
  • Extensive experience with Microsoft Office tools (including Visio)
  • Experience with Adobe tools (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
  • U.S. citizenship (required for this role)

Tools & Environment
You'll work in a modern, collaborative environment using:
  • Documentation repositories and platforms (AI, GitHub, Confluence, SharePoint, Wikis)
  • Creative software from Adobe, MadCap, Microsoft 365, SolidWorks, and others
  • Version control and content management tools
  • Agile workflows and cross-functional collaboration
  • Engineering artifacts such as schematics, architecture diagrams, and interface documents

What will help you on the job
Bonus Points if You Have
  • Experience with networking, cybersecurity, or system architecture
  • Familiarity with DoD, NIST, or ISO documentation standards
  • Experience working in Agile environments
  • Familiarity with tools such as:
    • Confluence, SharePoint, or wiki platforms
    • Version control systems (e.g., Oricle Agile, Perforce)
    • Exposure to CAD tools, diagrams, or visual storytelling
  • Experience with technical diagrams and structured documentation formats

What Makes You Stand Out
  • You enjoy learning how systems work - not just documenting them
  • You're comfortable talking to engineers and translating their expertise into something clear
  • You care about good documentation, not just getting the job done

Salary range
$82,000.00 - $129,500.00 / annually.For specific work locations within San Jose, the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, the base pay range for this role is $102,000.00- $153,000.00/ annually
At Viasat, we consider many factors when it comes to compensation, including the scope of the position as well as your background and experience. Base pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Additional cash or stock incentives may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Learn more about Viasat's comprehensive benefit offerings that are focused on your holistic health and wellness at https://careers.viasat.com/benefits.
EEO Statement
Viasat is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, seeking to create a welcoming and diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, genetics, age, or veteran status or any other applicable legally protected status or characteristic. If you would like to request an accommodation on the basis of disability for completing this on-line application, please click here.

What Viasat employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


ViaSat logo

About ViaSat

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Viasat, we're on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate.

Industry

Telecommunications

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Carlsbad, CA, US

Year founded

1986