Patricia Hubbert
MS Technical and Professional Writing
Exam Essay
Presented to Dr. Sarah Read
June 1, 2021
I enrolled in the Portland State University Master of Science in Professional
and Technical Writing program because I wanted to reenter the workforce, and I
believed the knowledge and skills I gained there would help make it possible for
me. My decision-making process included an examination of my work history, an
inventory of my skills, and a personal assessment of my ability to take on the work
while also taking care of my family. Little did I know that my own informal self-
assessment at the beginning of my graduate studies would be reflected at the
conclusion of my studies in my completed online portfolio. My portfolio represents
the breadth of knowledge and skills I attained during my studies at PSU and
presents them in a meaningful format to potential employers. I believe my
experience at PSU as reflected in my portfolio is key to connecting me to a
fulfilling job as a technical communicator.
When creating my portfolio, I first sought to understand its rhetorical
situation. As a digital document my portfolio communicates to others the
professional competencies, technological expertise, and personal characteristics
that I bring to technical communication projects. My audience is twofold. The first
audience is the administration of PSU to whom I must demonstrate that I have
achieved the necessary skills and scholarship to earn a master’s degree in
professional and technical writing. The second audience is the collective of
potential employers to whom I must demonstrate a range of abilities to be
considered for employment as a technical communicator. I believe the content and
layout of my portfolio achieves both goals.
The deliverables showcased in my portfolio represent a range of genres and
content types that are in demand from technical communicators by potential
employers. In their analysis of industry job postings, researchers Eva Brumberger
and Claire Lauer identify two of the most in demand job categories for technical
communicators as technical writer/editor and content development manager
(Brumberger and Lauer, 229). The information products included in these
categories range from user’s guides and technical documents to brand marketing
and web content. The common denominator seems to be a technical
communicator’s ability to create and edit content in collaboration with subject
matter experts, for print as well as a range of digital platforms (Brumberger and
Lauer, 239). I believe my portfolio demonstrates this necessary range of technical
communicator skills and abilities that are sought after in the current job market.
I have organized my portfolio to highlight the information products that are
in high demand from technical communicators. When you look at my website
([Link] the hero image includes text in
which I identify as a technical writer and editor, and a compelling photo. In the text
I invite visitors to review my technical communication skillset which is divided
into eight genres of information products: DITA/XML, technical editing, content
development , content management systems, digital marketing, document design,
graphic design, and professional writing. According to Brumberger and Lauer,
technical writer/editor job postings are among 2/3rds of all technical communicator
job postings (238). I hope to catch the eye of an employer like Intel who has
recently advertised for a Technical Writer (see Appendix I). In their advertisement
Intel indicates they are seeking a technical writer/editor who, “can work with
technical subject matter experts to create, edit, review and publish documents.” In
another job advertisement from Lithia Motors in Medford, Oregon, they are
seeking a Learning & Career Development Content Developer (see Appendix II)
who will, “work with leaders and subject matter experts company-wide in the
preparation of materials that will fulfill established organizational needs.” By
identifying myself as a technical writer and editor, I seek to maximize my appeal to
potential employers like these.
The layout of my portfolio makes it easy for potential employers to go
directly to the content in which they are most interested. For example, the Intel
Technical Writer advertisement specifically references a requirement for
experience in using XML/DITA-based authoring tools. A potential hiring manager
could click on that link on my homepage to be brought to a second more detailed
section showcasing my competencies, technological expertise, and personal
characteristics in creating DITA/XML deliverables. Likewise, a hiring manager
for Lithia Motors might click on the link for content development since one of
their jobs’ responsibilities is to , “create high quality solutions that are creative,
engaging , instructionally sound, complete, and accurately convey learning
concepts and messaging in line with company culture, tone and branding”. The
link for each skillset will lead interested employers to a more detailed description
of my abilities and two to three examples of information products I created.
The portfolio section of my website serves to highlight the competencies,
technologies and personal characteristics that inform my project deliverables. All
the elements listed are mentioned by Brumberger and Lauer as desirable technical
communicator skills by employers in today’s job market (234-237). For example,
in the content development genre, I highlight my competencies in audience
analysis, my technological skill in coding languages and my personal
characteristics of research and subject matter expert interviewing. One thing I like
about my website portfolio is that I can change it up to emphasize my
competencies, technological ability, and personal characteristics according to a
particular job advertisement’s demands. For example, one advertisement from PRS
Management in Medford, Oregon for a copywriter (Appendix III) asks for the
ability to, “write copy for print ads, brochures, websites, newsletters, directly mail
and other projects as assigned.” For this job, I would reorganize my site to
emphasize content development and technical editing. In any case, I feel that the
deliverables that I created as a student in the MPTW program will help launch me
into my desired career as a technical communicator.
Citations
Brumberger, Eva, and Claire Lauer. “The Evolution of Technical Communication:
An Analysis of Industry Job Postings.” Technical Communication, vol. 62, no. 4,
Nov. 2015, pp 224-43.
Appendix
I.
Intel - Technical Writer
Join Intel and build a better tomorrow. Intel is in the midst of an exciting transformation, with a
vision to create and extend computing technology to connect and enrich the lives of every person
on Earth. So, join us-and help us create the next generation of technologies that will shape the
future for decades to come.
Technology Enablement Group is looking for a candidate passionate about Technical
Writing/Editing who can work with technical subject matter experts to create, edit, review and
publish documents.
In this role you will partner with other technical publications experts to create documents such as
Users Manuals, Handbooks, Release Notes, and PPT based trainings rich in images and technical
descriptions. The primary focus will be on quick and easy understanding by the end-user of this
material.
Responsibilities include, but not limited to:
· Works hands-on on projects of moderate scope and high/moderate complexity to gather raw
inputs from subject-matter experts to prepare easy-to-understand technical user guides/manuals,
trainings and methodology documents containing text, data, drawings and charts. Executes
according to defined workflow to publish error-free documents.
· Plans/manages/executes technical documentation projects related to specific product offerings.
Has decision making authority at the project level. Leads the project as an expert in handling
XML editors, Word or PowerPoint based content and/or illustrations.
· Analyzes and interprets data to determine the appropriate syntax, style and grammatical usage
in the documents. Recommends and implements changes to content for better understanding by
target audience.
· Assesses risks and identifies issues and solutions to achieve program goals while maintaining
high quality standards. Monitors progress against schedule and takes remedial action as
appropriate.
Preferred qualifications are in addition to the minimum requirements and are considered a plus
factor in identifying top candidates. Experience would be obtained through a combination of
prior education level classes, and current level school classes, projects, research, and relevant
previous job and internship experience.
Behavioral traits desired:
· Solid organization skills with adherence to file structures, naming conventions, and other
established protocols.
· Excellent at self-management and meeting deadlines.
· Strong communication skills to explain complex and technical ideas between executive,
creative and technical teams.
What we offer:
· We give you opportunities to transform technology and create a better future, by delivering
products that touch the lives of every person on earth.
· As a global leader in innovation and new technology, we foster a collaborative, supportive, and
exciting environment where the brightest minds in the world come together to achieve
exceptional results.
· We offer a competitive salary and financial benefits such as bonuses, life and disability
insurance, opportunities to buy Intel stock at a discounted rate, and Intel stock awards (eligibility
at the discretion of Intel Corporation).
· We provide benefits that promote a healthy, enjoyable life: excellent medical plans, wellness
programs, and amenities, time off, recreational activities, discounts on various products and
services, and much more creative perks that make Intel a Great Place to Work!
We're constantly working on making a more connected and intelligent future, and we need your
help. Change tomorrow. Start today.
Qualifications
You must possess the below minimum qualifications to be initially considered for this position.
Preferred qualifications are in addition to the minimum requirements and are considered a plus
factor in identifying top candidates. Experience would be obtained through a combination of
prior education level classes, and current level school classes, projects, research, and relevant
previous job and internship experience.
Minimum Qualifications:
- BS in English, technical writing or technical communications.
- 5+ years of experience designing, writing, and publishing technical documentation.
- 3+ years of experience using XML/DITA-based authoring tools.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Direct experience in semiconductor or electronics domain.
- Experience with creating/editing illustrations (using Visio, Illustrator).
Inside this Business Group
As the world's largest chip manufacturer, Intel strives to make every facet of semiconductor
manufacturing state-of-the-art -- from semiconductor process development and manufacturing,
through yield improvement to packaging, final test and optimization, and world class Supply
Chain and facilities support. Employees in the Technology and Manufacturing Group are part of
a worldwide network of design, development, manufacturing, and assembly/test facilities, all
focused on utilizing the power of Moore’s Law to bring smart, connected devices
II.
Lithia Motors - Learning & Career Development Content Developer
Lithia Motors (NYSE: LAD) is the third largest automotive retailer in the U.S. and was named a
2019 Oregonian Top Workplaces award winner. We are one of the fastest-growing companies on
the Fortune 500 (#265 in 2019).
With a mission of Growth Powered by People, Lithia continuously creates new opportunities for
our people. We aim to create an environment where you are enabled to reach your highest
potential, where you feel both inspired and supported.
With core values to Earn Customers for Life, Take Personal Ownership, Improve Constantly and
Have Fun, we believe in celebrating success and cheering one another on!
We're HIRING NOW for a Learning & Career Development Content Developer! This role is
based at our beautiful corporate offices in downtown Medford, OR.
What does it mean to be a Content Developer for Lithia’s Learning & Career Development
team? It means creating captivating learning and development content to engage with our high-
performance teams. It means working with a dynamic, collaborative team on fun, compelling
projects. It means watching your skills, network, and career grow with one the fastest-growing
companies in the Fortune 500.
Learning & Career Development Content Developer
The Learning & Career Development Content Developer is responsible for creating engaging,
informative, and effective learning content and communications in a variety of formats. This
person will work with leaders and subject matter experts (SMEs) company-wide in the
preparation of materials that will fulfill established organizational needs.
The Learning & Career Development Content Developer reports to the Learning Supervisor.
Responsibilities
· Identify and validate content to be used in learning materials and communications. Leverage
and collaborate with subject-matter experts, key performers, program champions, and others to
create high quality and quantity of projects
· Create high quality solutions that are creative, engaging, instructionally sound, complete, and
accurately convey learning concepts and messaging in line with company culture, tone, and
branding
· Design and develop messaging and media solutions for both new hire and existing employees
to support role-based organizational needs
· Conduct and/or review needs analyses to develop learning solutions targeted to meet specific
audience needs
· Use a disciplined instructional design approach to create meaningful, memorable learning
experiences
· Evaluate the success of learning solutions in terms of learning outcomes in collaboration with
operational metrics, performance change and business impact; identify trends and patterns in
data
· Prepare facilitator support materials (i.e. PowerPoint slides, leader/facilitator guides, learning
activities, evaluation tools, etc.) and effectively conduct “train-the-trainer” sessions to ensure
effective delivery and engaging learning experiences
· Partner with others on the Learning & Career Development Team to create and/or source
trainings, tools, and resources that address established needs
· Provide support for other Learning and Development initiatives as needed
· Other duties and projects, as assigned
Skills and Qualifications
· Strong attention to detail
· Sense of urgency
· Excellent communication
· Time Management
· Bachelor’s degree in Business, Education, Communications or related field preferred
· Flexibility navigating change in a fast-paced environment
· Strong proficiency in MS Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)
· Experience with media creation/editing tools: Adobe Creative Cloud Suite (Photoshop,
Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere, Audition, Acrobat), Storyline, Camtasia Studio, Snagit, Audacity,
ProTools
· SumTotal LMS experience a plus
Competencies
· Does the right thing, takes action and adapts to change
· Self-motivates, believes in accountability, focuses on results, makes plans and follows through
· Believes in humility, shares best practices, desires to keep learning, measures performance and
adapts to improve results
· Thrives on a team, stays positive, lives our values
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an
employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.*
· Up to 1/3 of time: standing, walking, lifting up to 25 pounds
· Up to 2/3 of time: sitting, kneeling, reaching, talking, hearing
*Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential
functions.
NOTE: This is not necessarily an exhaustive list of responsibilities, skills, or working conditions
associated with the job. While this list is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current job,
the company reserves the right to revise the functions and duties of the job or to require that
additional or different tasks be performed.
We offer best in class industry benefits:
· Competitive pay
· Medical, Dental and Vision Plans
· Paid Holidays & PTO
· Short and Long-Term Disability
· Paid Life Insurance
· 401(k) Retirement Plan
· Employee Stock Purchase Plan
· Lithia Learning Center
· Vehicle Purchase Discounts
· Wellness Programs
High School graduate or equivalent, 18 years or older required. Acceptable driving record and a
valid driver's license in your state of residence necessary for select roles. We are a drug free
workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity (regardless of race, color,
ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status,
disability, gender identity or Veteran status). We also consider qualified applicants regardless of
criminal histories, consistent with le
III.
PRS Management – Copywriter
Overview:
Pacific Retirement Services in downtown Medford is looking for a full time Copywriter to join
our home office team. In this role you’ll be working with a creative and talented department in
charge of supporting the sales and other departments of our retirement communities across the
country. As a copywriter you will write clear and concise copy with a distinct voice for ads,
publications, and websites. Your words will inform and engage target audiences through a variety
of marketing and media projects.
About Pacific Retirement Services:
At our core, we develop, build, and operate communities filled with friendly neighbors,
interesting activities, inspiring conversations, delicious food, and plenty of laughter. We also
share our experience and knowledge with other retirement communities who seek our
management services, helping them achieve excellence and financial stability. Currently we
own/operate 10 CCRCs in 6 states.
What you’ll be doing:
You will serve as copywriter and proofreader for a variety of marketing and media projects and
collaborate in developing advertising concepts and campaigns.
How you’ll do it:
· Write copy for print ads, brochures, websites, newsletters, direct mail, and other projects as
assigned.
· Copy, edit, and proofread work by yourself and others.
· Ensure that all print and digital materials maintain brand consistency.
· Write content for the Pacific Retirement Services (PRS) biannual magazine.
· Write responses for reviews and social media sites to support reputation management.
· Perform other duties as assigned or required.
Who you’ll be working with:
This position will require you to have regular interaction with staff, clients, and occasionally
residents. The Media Services Department is a close-knit team including copywriters, graphic
designers, creative director, business development director, digital marketing manager, web
developer, and a project coordinator.
About you:
· Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, business, or a related field is preferred.
· One (1) to three (3) years’ experience in media, journalism or a related field.
· Computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office programs, especially MS Word.
· Familiarity with Adobe InCopy.
· Experience presenting work to clients and team members.
Benefits:
· 100% Paid Medical/Dental/Vision
· Life/AD&D Insurance
· Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
· Holiday Pay and Floating Holiday
· Sick Leave
· Vacation Leave
· 401K with Match Employer Funded Retirement Fund
