How Do I Become a Documentation Engineer?

To become a documentation engineer, you need a college degree, knowledge of various documentation techniques, and a sense of mechanical design. This professional works with various other departments to make sure that all products and processes are documented accurately, that projects are progressing on schedule, and the requirements of all contracts are being met. Educational requirements vary by employer, but most will require a bachelor's degree in engineering. Experience or knowledge of the various tools, parts, and processes used in specific manufacturing industries is also necessary. All designs and processes must be documented according to the client's specific standards.

Most employers require a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, computer science, software engineering, or other related disciplines. Some who want to become a documentation engineer will have acquired additional training in manufacturing engineering, packaging science, or industrial engineering, while others may only have a post-secondary degree that provides minimal training for this position. The type of degree and training required will be determined by the particular industry in which a documentation engineer may work. Those who want to move into upper management positions in this field may work toward earning a master's degree in business or management.

One of the main responsibilities for those wanting to become a documentation engineer is the coordination of all relevant documents, including engineering drawings, schematics, technical manuals, software, or any other materials related to a particular project. Creation of product specifications, documentation of all modifications throughout the entire process and organization of production schedules may also be a big part of this job.

Those who want to become a documentation engineer can benefit greatly by gaining practical knowledge of technology and engineering. The types of documentation that an engineer must work with include things like technical drawings, which must be accurate and kept up-to-date. Documentation engineers also work closely with other engineers and designers to explain clearly how a product or process works; understanding the fundamentals behind the product is often key to explaining it to a client.

Documentation engineers are sometimes required to analyze all the details of a design or production processes, so any documentation needed may be determined for the different phases of projects. They may also need the ability to review details of production contracts to ensure production methods or processes are documented as specified by government authorities or clients. This careful documentation process allows engineers and technicians to review a particular process and determine where problems might exist.