What Does an Apple Technical Writer Do?
An Apple technical writer works on internal facing and external documentation to help simplify complex subjects for end users. In doing so, they make the products easier to understand and use for everyday human consumers while also using insights and enabling engineers to better understand how to build such products.
Apple Technical Writer Role
An Apple technical writer has two general audience types. The first one is coworkers, and the second one is end-users. From a technical writer, Apple expects to create content that explains complex technical details and verifies the accuracy of the information provided. This role includes managing tasks where verification successful waiting times for publication and review are minimized to ensure the efficiency of documentation processes.
Technical writers at Apple often use a content management system to organize and publish their documentation.
Apple’s primary line of business is designing, manufacturing, and marketing a range of tech gadgets such as smartphones (iPhone), personal computers (Mac), tablets (iPad), and various tech accessories. Additionally, Apple also offers advertising, cloud services, and digital and payment services.
Technical writing is critical for security because although it’s clear to an Apple developer why a specific security update is helpful, the same doesn’t go for the end customer.
Similarly, although it’s the marketing team’s job to create engaging marketing campaigns for the latest iPhone or Mac, that doesn’t mean they automatically know why the current iPhone is better than the previous one.
That’s why Apple needs capable technical writers who can act as human “translators” between the product team and the target audience.
As such, technical writers create different content types. The most general types are:
Guidelines
Technical writers create guidelines to provide clear, step-by-step instructions for users, ensuring they can perform specific tasks or follow procedures accurately and efficiently.
Manuals
They also produce manuals that offer comprehensive information on how to operate products or systems, serving as essential resources for users to understand features and functionality.
Reviews
In addition, they write reviews that evaluate and summarize the technical aspects of products or services, helping audiences make informed decisions based on detailed assessments.
Technical report
Technical writers compile technical reports that present data, analysis, and findings in a structured format, often used to communicate results or progress to stakeholders.
Technical documents
They also develop technical documents that gather in-depth information on complex topics, serving as authoritative references for users, engineers, and other professionals. Finally, they may create various technical documents that compile detailed information for a broad range of audiences, ensuring that technical knowledge is accessible and understandable.
Apple Technical Writer Qualifications & Responsibilities
Since Apple has several customer types, a technical writer will likely join an innovation department that writes about new products for private and/or business users or the internal team whose tasks range from writing a product report to online publication. But keep in mind that you might have to write for both audiences. Technical writers must ensure that all security checks are completed before proceeding with the documentation process.
Technical writers must also consider the user experience when creating documentation.
Qualifications
Although not necessary, employers usually prefer technical writers with a bachelor’s degree, either in journalism, English, or technical communication. Furthermore, specialized education in engineering, computer science, and web design experience helps.
Having a college degree or credible certification like the one from Technical Writer HQ, helps employers to filter out potential candidates. Additionally, knowing a writer’s experience in completing user verification processes makes it easy for a team manager to assign a department and projects, especially in big companies such as Apple.
It’s not rare for individuals to jump to the tech writer position from different jobs. For example, an engineer who has a knack for writing technical documentation might decide to jump careers.
There are several requirements for a job as a technical writer at Apple. The company has several general and specialized qualifications.
The main requirements are:
- Attention to detail.
- Native use of the English language.
- Experience in researching, outlining, and writing technical content such as guides, studies, and papers.
- Experience interviewing experts on a specific topic.
- Ability to review and transform complex tech data into helpful and quality reports.
- Experience in creating visual guides that explain complex tech ideas.
- Knowing how to communicate effectively with employees from different departments at Apple.
Although Apple doesn’t list any conventional education as an essential requirement, they prefer individuals who disclose proof of writing and technical knowledge.
Responsibilities
At Apple, a technical writer’s job is to collaborate with software developers and write technical documents for the company and end-users. Besides creating new documentation, you’ll also review and update previous ones. Ensuring a secure connection for users is crucial when creating documentation that involves sensitive information.
Technical writers at Apple are also responsible for creating and maintaining API documentation.
You’ll also create community to copies that explain the latest technical updates and services to a non-technical audience. This requires a stellar understanding of the community, user persona and vocabulary necessary to explain.
It also helps to know GitHub since Apple usually stores its source data there.
Finally, as a technical writer, you’ll create papers that help the internal team’s productivity. Each document you write should help different groups understand and discuss the latest changes with team members and external partners.
Promotion Possibilities for Senior Technical Writer at Apple
There are several promotion possibilities inside Apple as a technical writer. One of them is the promotion of a senior technical writer.
Except for better compensation, you can expect new responsibilities with the role. Senior writers write and review app specifications, technical materials, and how-to documents. However, the key difference is that senior writers have more independence. Meaning that other employees (including those from another department) will usually come to them for advice.
Senior technical writers may also be involved in developing a content strategy.
Senior technical writer requirements are:
- Three or more years of technical writing experience for applications or a master’s degree in Technical Communication.
- Experience with app interaction workflow.
- Stellar writing and grammar skills.
- Software development understanding.
Another option is the role of a technical writer/strategist. With better pay, the difference is deeper involvement in the innovation process. Besides merely creating content, your job is to edit, plan, analyze, and provide solutions to potential problems that arise along the way.
Technical writer/strategist requirements are:
Bachelor’s degree in technical communication
A Bachelor’s degree in technical communication provides a solid foundation for a career in technical writing, equipping individuals with the skills needed to convey complex information clearly and effectively. This degree is often valued by employers as it indicates a specialized education in the field.
Stellar communication and organization skills
Stellar communication and organization skills are essential for technical writers, as they must not only convey information clearly but also manage multiple projects and deadlines efficiently. These skills ensure that technical content is both accurate and delivered on time.
Write simple and informative content
The ability to write simple and informative content is crucial in technical writing. Technical writers must distill complex technical concepts into easily understandable language, ensuring that their audience, regardless of technical expertise, can grasp the material.
Make decisions based on data
Technical writers must be able to make decisions based on data, using analytics and user feedback to guide their content creation. This data-driven approach ensures that the documentation is relevant, effective, and meets the needs of its intended audience.
Experience writing for software and applications
Software developement skills demonstrates familiarity with the specific requirements and challenges of documenting complex software systems. This experience enables writers to create precise and user-friendly documentation.
Credible certification
Certifications provide formal recognition of a writer’s skills and knowledge, making them more competitive in the job market and reassuring employers of their expertise.
Average Apple Technical Writer Salaries
According to Comparably, the average annual salary at Apple is $143,362 or $68 per hour. When discussing compensation, it’s essential to remember that Apple’s pay structure includes base salary, and pay which may vary based on role and experience.
The compensation package at Apple includes various benefits and includes base salary and bonuses.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for a general technical writer is $74,650. This makes the compensation at Apple about $27,000 higher than averages technical writer salaries in the U.S. A technical writer’s compensation is more than a junior product manager’s pay but less than salary for other managing positions.
For more salaries, according to Indeed, senior technical writers have better salaries with an average annual salary of $131,674.
Apple Employee Benefits
Besides enjoying better-than-average salaries, several benefits come with the compensation. Glassdoor ranking for technical writer Apple benefits is 4.5 out of 5.
Some of the key benefits that come along with the base salary are:
- Health Insurance – Insurance covers general health insurance perks, including dental, vision, and pet insurance.
- Life Insurance – General life insurance in case of death or after a time period passes.
- Wellness – Apple offers gym-on-site, gym discounts, on-site clinics, and free food and drinks.
- Family – Guaranteed maternity (16 weeks) and paternity (6 weeks) paid leave.
- Home – Adoption and fertility assistance. Additionally, Apple offers relocation bonuses and immigration assistance.
- Finance & Retirement – Possibility of a flexible spending account and an employer-sponsored retirement savings account.
- Stock Options – Opportunity to become a shareholder through participation in the discretionary employee stock program.
- Employee Stock Purchase Plan – Employees can buy Apple stock at a discounted rate.
- Product Discounts – Annual 25% off on Apple products.
Conclusion
An Apple technical writer is an attractive choice if you search for new job opportunities due to its above-average salaries and other perks and as such, it’s a solid choice for beginner technical writers and senior writers looking for a step up in their careers.
Apple offers significant career growth opportunities for technical writers, including chances to work on innovative projects and collaborate with industry leaders.
Although the compensation is attractive, it might be difficult for beginner writers with zero experience in similar jobs. If you’re aiming for the job, but you don’t feel ready, the good idea is to take technical writing courses.
Besides the proper education, you also get helpful certifications that help you stand out when the employer reviews your application. Like other jobs, it’s all about how much your skills match what the employer is looking for. So make sure you’re 100% ready when you decide to send your resume.
FAQs
Here, you can find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about technical writers.
What technical writing tools are commonly used by Apple technical writers?
Apple technical writers commonly use tools such as Markdown, LaTeX, and various content management systems (CMS). These tools help in creating, formatting, and managing technical documentation efficiently.
What does a technical writer do?
A technical writer writes and edits technical documents that explain complex tech information in an easy-to-understand fashion. Tech writers’ primary audience is individuals and businesses that lack technical knowledge but require the information. The target audience can be end-users or business partners who make important financial decisions.
Technical writers must adhere to documentation standards to ensure consistency and quality.
Is technical writing a good career?
Since every company needs stellar communication with its customers and business partners, most companies require writers who can present abstract tech data in a simple form. As such, it can be a fruitful career, depending on the industry you decide to specialize in. The SaaS sector needs tech writers because their customers must understand how the product or service helps make their lives easier. There is a high industry demand for skilled technical writers, making it a promising career choice.
What makes a good technical writer?
A good technical writer can explain complex technical information in a couple of sentences without sacrificing the essence. In other words, professional tech writers effectively teach users how to use a product in a minimum time.
Learning a new product or service can be time-consuming, but if a technical writer has excellent skills, they can lead the user from the beginning to the end without any bumps in the middle. Respond to queries quickly and verify that all documentation meets the required standards. Attention to detail is crucial for ensuring accuracy and clarity in technical writing.
What is Apple?
Apple is a multinational company with headquarters in Cupertino, California. Besides the HQ, Apple has ray id offices around the nation, such as New York City, and international offices across 26 countries.
Apple’s global presence significantly impacts its technical writing team, requiring them to collaborate across a range of different time zones and cultural contexts.
If you are new to technical writing and are looking to break-in, we recommend taking our Technical Writing Certification Course, where you will learn the fundamentals of being a technical writer, how to dominate technical writer interviews, and how to stand out as a technical writing candidate.
