User guides, instruction manuals, and articles that describe specialized or industry-specific information are reviewed and revised a technical editor. He or she collaborates closely with writers to create accurate, easy-to-understand articles worthy of publication. Proofreading works for proper grammar and syntax, as well as confirming the veracity of the information presented, is the responsibility of editors. Some technical editors work full-time for publishing companies or manufacturing companies that produce their own manuals, while others work as freelance technical editors for a variety of clients.
In a variety of settings, including engineering firms, retail businesses, scientific research institutions, and health care facilities, proficient technical editing is critical to effective communication. An editor may work in a company’s physical office or complete tasks from home on a freelance basis, depending on the nature of the job. To communicate with employers and writers, freelance editors primarily use e-mail and other forms of online communication.
A technical editor must be intimately familiar with the subject matter of written pieces as well as the audience who will use the information in order to ensure quality documentation. He or she must ensure that the writer’s language is understandable to a specific audience. For example, a technical article written for scientists about recent nuclear research can include highly specialized terminology on the assumption that readers will understand the content. A similar article for the general public, on the other hand, would need to explain terms and procedures in far simpler terms. The technical editor is the one who decides whether the content and style of a piece are appropriate.
When a technical editor reviews an article, he or she looks for ambiguous sentences, grammatical errors, unsupported facts, and other errors that detract from the piece’s quality. He or she may explain issues to the original author and make suggestions for changes. In some cases, the editor may be able to make minor changes to a document without having to return it to the author. The editor usually puts a document in the proper format and submits it for publication after it has been thoroughly revised and deemed acceptable the editor.
Employers have different requirements for becoming a technical editor. Many editors have earned a bachelor’s degree in writing, journalism, or a specific language. Others have degrees and experience in specialized fields such as chemical engineering or aeronautics, where they work. Editors frequently start their careers as technical writers to gain experience with a specific subject and to establish their credentials.