Penn State Job Catalog

Additional levels that exist for this job profile can be seen below.

Technical Writers write documentation for technical products, systems, processes, equipment operations and maintenance, research findings, etc. for internal or external audiences; determine an effective structure and layout for complex manuals and other technical documentation; conduct research and liaison with technical staff to ensure accurate interpretation of complex technical data, drawings, and specifications; ensure that appropriate technical content and terminology review occurs; edit content to improve clarity, impact, flow, meaning, and readability.

• Determine the needs of end users for technical documentation
• Organize material and complete writing assignment according to set standards regarding order, clarity, conciseness, style, and terminology
• Edit, standardize, or make changes to material prepared by other writers
• Select photographs, drawings, sketches, diagrams, and charts to illustrate material
• Study drawings, specifications, mockups, and samples to integrate and delineate technology, operating procedure, sequence, and detail
• Observe production, developmental, and experimental activities to determine operating procedure and detail
• Review manufacturer and trades catalogs, drawings, and other data relative to operation, maintenance, and service of equipment
• Analyze developments in specific field to determine need for revisions in previously published materials or for the development of new material
• Maintain records and files of work and revisions

Level:

– Senior Professional

Base Description:

– Completes activities, tasks, and/or projects of a functional nature.

Level Summary:

– Demonstrates advanced knowledge of principles, practices, and procedures of a particular field. Works independently on moderately complex work assignments under limited oversight, reviews progress, and evaluates results. Monitors work and projects ensuring timeliness, quality, and efficiency. Identifies and mobilizes resources to achieve outcomes. Trains others and reviews progress with management. Presents ideas, concepts, and instructions in a clear and persuasive manner. Develops new techniques, concepts, and approaches and applies them to moderately complex and strategic and/or operational issues.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

– Indirect supervisor for other full–time employees
– May serve as direct supervisor for part–time, student, and/or temporary workers, volunteers, or a full–time employee

Fiscal Responsibilities:

– May validate and pay invoices
– Monitors and tracks budgets and funding

Problem Solving:

– Encounters moderately complex problems
– Applies specialized knowledge and skills to resolve problems
– Understands benefits, limitations, and impact of potential solutions

Independence of Action:

– Works independently on moderately complex work assignments, reviews progress, and evaluates results
– May set priorities and organize work within general guidelines established by supervisor
– May review the work of others to verify accuracy and conformance to required procedures and special instructions

Communication and Collaboration:

– Communicates internally within working unit and the University
– Communicates with external audiences for scheduling/coordination
– May communicate with external audiences for business purposes
– Coaches others in using appropriate strategies for resolving conflict; negotiating reasonable compromises; and proposing and evaluating possible solutions
– Give candid and constructive feedback to others to influence and persuade managers and employees to accept and implement findings and recommendations

• Comp Grade – 12
• Minimum – $76,700.00
• MidPoint – $95,900.00
• Maximum – $115,100.00