TechWhirl (TECHWR-L) is a resource for technical writing and technical communications professionals of all experience levels and in all industries to share their experiences and acquire information.
For two decades, technical communicators have turned to TechWhirl to ask and answer questions about the always-changing world of technical communications, such as tools, skills, career paths, methodologies, and emerging industries. The TechWhirl Archives and magazine, created for, by and about technical writers, offer a wealth of knowledge to everyone with an interest in any aspect of technical communications.
Subject:Two writing jobs in Maryland From:"Brown, Geoffrey" <GBROWN -at- FILETEK -dot- COM> Date:Wed, 27 Jan 1999 12:05:33 -0500
To all list members looking for a job in the Washington, D.C. area:
I'm working here on a contract. They need two full-time employees now because of
new requirements (not attrition). Replies should be sent as listed below, but
I'll pass on anything sent to me.
FileTek, Inc., located in suburban Rockville, MD, is looking for two full-time
technical writers.
For more information on FileTek, see http://www.filetek.com/homepage.htm.
Responses to:
FileTek, Inc.
Attn. Human Resources
9400 Key West Avenue
Rockville, MD 20850
Fax: (301) 251-1991
e-mail: jobs -at- filetek -dot- com
Writer 1
Primary Responsibility: Write user manuals, reference manuals, concepts manuals,
and quick reference cards for FileTek's mainstream database product
StorHouse/RM. Initial work will be updating existing manuals. The next product
release will probably include writing new manuals as well, and maybe a help
file. Our group also writes manuals and help files for Windows-based products,
so down the road, there is an opportunity to work on these tasks too.
Experience: At least 5 years' experience writing computer software
documentation in a high-tech environment.
Required skill set: Excellent interpersonal and wordsmithing skills;
understanding of programming and database concepts; some familiarity with SQL
(although not critical); knowledge of Framemaker publishing software; fast
learner; willing to probe developers for details; not afraid to ask lots of
questions.
Writer 2
Primary Responsibility: Write procedure documentation that describes how to
install and configure FileTek software at customer sites. These procedures will
be used by FileTek's Customer Support department. This is a huge task, and a
very challenging opportunity.
Experience: Same as writer 1, although more experience is a plus. It may be
helpful if the candidate has had some help desk experience, but this is not a
requirement. I find that many candidates for writer jobs have had some help desk
experience.
Skill Set: Same as writer 1, except that an understanding of UNIX and database
principles are a giant plus and more preferred for this job. Must be able to
write concise, clear task-based documentation.
P.S.: The publications manager likes to see a cover letter and writing sample
(a chapter will do) with each resume.