ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

User Manual Writer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Senior Technical Writer/Editor

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Technical Writer/Ed Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum ... Editing functional descriptions, system specifications, user's manuals, special reports, or any ...

SAIC

Senior Technical Writer/Editor

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

The Technical Writer conducts research and ensures the use of proper technical terminology ... Editing functional descriptions, system specifications, user's manuals, special reports, or any ...

SAIC

Senior Technical Writer/Editor

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

The Technical Writer conducts research and ensures the use of proper technical terminology ... Editing functional descriptions, system specifications, user's manuals, special reports, or any ...

SAIC

Senior Technical Writer/Editor

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

The Technical Writer conducts research and ensures the use of proper technical terminology ... Editing functional descriptions, system specifications, user's manuals, special reports, or any ...

SAIC

Senior Technical Writer/Editor

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

The Technical Writer conducts research and ensures the use of proper technical terminology ... Editing functional descriptions, system specifications, user's manuals, special reports, or any ...

SAIC

Senior Technical Writer/Editor

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $120K/yr

The Technical Writer conducts research and ensures the use of proper technical terminology ... Editing functional descriptions, system specifications, user's manuals, special reports, or any ...

SAIC

Senior Technical Writer/Editor

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

The Technical Writer conducts research and ensures the use of proper technical terminology ... Editing functional descriptions, system specifications, user's manuals, special reports, or any ...

SAIC

Senior Technical Writer/Editor

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

The Technical Writer conducts research and ensures the use of proper technical terminology ... Editing functional descriptions, system specifications, user's manuals, special reports, or any ...

SAIC

Senior Technical Writer/Editor

Spring Valley, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

The Technical Writer conducts research and ensures the use of proper technical terminology ... Editing functional descriptions, system specifications, user's manuals, special reports, or any ...

SAIC

Senior Technical Writer/Editor

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

The Technical Writer conducts research and ensures the use of proper technical terminology ... Editing functional descriptions, system specifications, user's manuals, special reports, or any ...

SAIC

Senior Technical Writer/Editor

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

The Technical Writer conducts research and ensures the use of proper technical terminology ... Editing functional descriptions, system specifications, user's manuals, special reports, or any ...

SAIC

Senior Technical Writer/Editor

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

The Technical Writer conducts research and ensures the use of proper technical terminology ... Editing functional descriptions, system specifications, user's manuals, special reports, or any ...

SAIC

Senior Technical Writer/Editor

Jamul, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

The Technical Writer conducts research and ensures the use of proper technical terminology ... Editing functional descriptions, system specifications, user's manuals, special reports, or any ...

SAIC

Senior Technical Writer/Editor

Escondido, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

The Technical Writer conducts research and ensures the use of proper technical terminology ... Editing functional descriptions, system specifications, user's manuals, special reports, or any ...

SAIC

Senior Technical Writer/Editor

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

The Technical Writer conducts research and ensures the use of proper technical terminology ... Editing functional descriptions, system specifications, user's manuals, special reports, or any ...

SAIC

Senior Technical Writer/Editor

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

The Technical Writer conducts research and ensures the use of proper technical terminology ... Editing functional descriptions, system specifications, user's manuals, special reports, or any ...

SAIC

Senior Technical Writer/Editor

Encinitas, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

The Technical Writer conducts research and ensures the use of proper technical terminology ... Editing functional descriptions, system specifications, user's manuals, special reports, or any ...

SAIC

Senior Technical Writer/Editor

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

The Technical Writer conducts research and ensures the use of proper technical terminology ... Editing functional descriptions, system specifications, user's manuals, special reports, or any ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsUser Manual Writer JobsUser Manual Writer Jobs in California

User Manual Writer information

See California salary details

$13

$38

$65

How much do user manual writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for user manual writer in California is $38.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.46 and $46.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a user manual writer?

A User Manual Writer creates clear, concise, and user-friendly documentation to help users understand and operate a product or system. They gather information from developers, engineers, and designers to create manuals, guides, and instructions. Their goal is to simplify complex information, ensuring users can troubleshoot problems and maximize product functionality. Strong writing, organizational, and research skills are essential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a user manual writer?

To thrive as a User Manual Writer, you need excellent writing, editing, and attention-to-detail skills, typically supported by a background in technical writing or communications. Familiarity with documentation tools like Adobe FrameMaker, MadCap Flare, or Microsoft Word, and sometimes certification such as Certified Professional Technical Communicator (CPTC), is highly valued. Strong interpersonal skills, adaptability, and the ability to translate complex information into clear instructions help individuals excel in this position. Mastering these skills ensures that manuals are user-friendly, accurate, and effectively support end users and product teams.

What are some common challenges user manual writers face, and how can they overcome them?

User Manual Writers often encounter challenges such as translating highly technical or complex processes into clear, easy-to-understand instructions for a variety of audiences. Collaboration with subject matter experts can be crucial to accurately gather information, and it may require patience and strong communication abilities. Staying organized and up-to-date with frequent product updates is another common hurdle, as documentation must remain accurate and relevant. To overcome these challenges, many writers develop strong relationships within cross-functional teams and embrace continuous learning to stay current with both products and documentation best practices.

How much do user manual writers make?

User manual writers typically earn a median annual salary of around $65,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $45,000 to over $100,000 depending on experience, industry, and location. Skilled writers who are proficient with technical writing tools and standards can command higher pay, especially in specialized fields such as engineering or software development.

What does a user manual writer do?

A user manual writer creates clear and detailed instructions to help users understand how to operate products or systems. They research product features, organize information logically, and often use tools like technical writing software to produce manuals that are easy to follow and accurate.

What skills do user manual writers need?

User manual writers need strong technical writing skills, the ability to explain complex concepts clearly, and proficiency with tools like Microsoft Word or Adobe FrameMaker. Attention to detail, understanding of the product or technology, and the ability to collaborate with engineers or designers are also important.

What are the most commonly searched types of User Manual Writer jobs in California?

The most popular types of User Manual Writer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to User Manual Writer jobs in California?

For User Manual Writer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching User Manual Writer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for User Manual Writer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for User Manual Writer jobs?

Cities in California with the most User Manual Writer job openings:

User Manual Writer jobs near you
Infographic showing various User Manual Writer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,940 per year, or $38.4 per hour.

Senior Technical Writer/Editor

SAIC

San Diego, CA • On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Other

Posted 10 days ago

SAIC rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

103rd of 226 rated it services

Job description

Job ID: 2616266
Location: San Diego, CA, US
Date Posted: 2026-08-28
Category: Communications
Subcategory: Technical Writer/Ed
Schedule: Full-Time
Shift: Day Job
Travel: Yes - 10% of the time
Minimum Clearance Required: Secret
Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None
Potential for Remote Work: ORA_HYBRID
Description
SAIC is seeking a highly motivated Senior Technical Writer to gather, analyze, and compose technical documentation, policy, and other artifacts. The Technical Writer conducts research and ensures the use of proper technical terminology. Translates technical information into clear, readable documents to be used by technical and non-technical personnel. Supports the development of all types of documents and reports by developing and updating graphics presentations to improve the quality and enhance the usability of these documents.
This is a Hybrid role in San Diego, CA. MUST be LOCAL to San Diego, CA.
This will support the Tactical Networks (TACNET) Capabilities Based In-Service Engineering Agent (CB-ISEA). TACNET CB-ISEA supports the sustainment and modernization of tactical networks to include Automated Digital Network System (ADNS), Consolidated Afloat Network and Enterprise Services (CANES), Combined Enterprise Regional Information Exchange System (CENTRIXS), Integration Shipboard Networking System (ISNS), and Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) Networks.
JOB DUTIES:
  • Gathering information, interviewing subject matter experts, and conducting other research to convey technical material in a concise and effective manner.
  • Composing technical documentation including, Knowledge Articles, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), user's manuals, governance and control gates documentation, training materials, installation guides, and reports.
  • Editing functional descriptions, system specifications, user's manuals, special reports, or any other customer deliverables and documentation.
  • Conducting research and ensuring the use of proper technical terminology.
  • Organizing material and completing writing assignment according to set standards regarding order, conciseness, style, and terminology.
  • Manages updates and revisions to reports, presentations, and technical documents.

Qualifications
REQUIREMENTS:
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, Technical Writing, English or related field and six (6) years of experience. Additional years of experience in lieu of degree will be considered.
  • Must have an Active Secret Clearance to start.
  • Excellent knowledge and ability with Microsoft Office Suite and tools, and Adobe Professional or similar.
  • Experience in Government (Navy or DoD) documents, processes, procedures, and/or terminology.
  • Ability to generate, revise, and maintain technical, programmatic documents such as test documents, procedures/guides, reports, and briefs in support of Sustainment Engineering efforts:
    • Experience with SOVT development.
  • Proficient oral and written communications skills.
  • Must be able to interact effectively with all levels of technical and management personnel.
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills; ability to manage documentation tasks for multiple products simultaneously.

DESIRED SKILLS:
  • Experience with naval network systems or technical background.
  • Experience eliciting feedback and inputs from engineers, technical staff, and program management staff.
  • Self-motivated team player with demonstrated ability to manage projects, tasks, and special assignments independently.
  • Experience with customer relationship management.

Target salary range: $80,001 - $120,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.
SAIC is a premier technology integrator providing full life cycle services and solutions in the technical, engineering, intelligence, and enterprise information technology markets. SAIC is Redefining Ingenuity through its deep customer and domain knowledge to enable the delivery of systems engineering and integration offerings for large, complex projects. SAIC's approximately 15,000 employees are driven by integrity and mission focus to serve customers in the U.S. federal government. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $4.5 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For information on the benefits SAIC offers, see .

What SAIC employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply