MakeUseOf - Tech Writer

Valnet's Tech Sites; Virginia Beach (VA); Remote; USD 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

MakeUseOf is seeking Freelance Features Writers to cover core tech areas, from home automation to PC hardware and maker projects. This remote, contract role invites journalists who can turn complex topics into clear, engaging features for a broad audience.

You will test software and hardware hands-on, craft step-by-step guidance, and format articles within our CMS, collaborating with editors to sharpen pitches and stories.

Qualifications

• Track record writing technical guides, hardware deep-dives, or software features in English.
• Access to the physical hardware, custom rigs, microcontrollers, homelab environments, or testing setups required for your primary coverage areas.
• Strong drive to consistently pitch fresh, relevant article ideas that match current tech trends.
• Ability to break down technical jargon into accessible, practical advice for tech enthusiasts and everyday readers alike.

Responsibilities

• Proactively pitch original feature ideas and regularly claim topics from editorial board.
• Write clear, engaging feature articles that simplify complex technical concepts.
• Test software, hardware, or workflows hands-on to provide practical guidance.
• Input, format, and structure articles inside our CMS per style guidelines.
• Collaborate with section editors to refine pitches and incorporate feedback.

Skills

Technical writing

Hardware testing

English writing

Tools

CMS

Job description

This position will operate on a remote, contractual basis.

About MakeUseOf

MakeUseOfis one of the largest online technology publications on the web today. We equip millions of readers—from everyday consumers to seasoned tech enthusiasts with practical guides, explainers, product recommendations, and deep feature analysis to help them make the most of their technology.

About the Role

MakeUseOf is looking forFreelance Features Writers across our core tech verticals. While we cover everything from desktop operating systems to smart home tech, we are actively looking for specialized writers who can turn complex technical subjects, hands-on builds, and practical home tech into clear, engaging features.

Priority Coverage Areas:

• Home Automation & Practical DIY Tech: Smart home sensors (motion, occupancy, contact), smart hubs/protocols (Matter, Zigbee, Z-Wave), power tool ecosystems (Ryobi, Milwaukee, DeWalt), and AV/networking cabling infrastructure (Cat 6/6a, Ethernet drops, HDMI standards).
• AI & Local Language Models: Writers with dedicated hardware rigs excited to test, benchmark, and write about open-source local LLMs (Ollama, LM Studio), local AI workflows, custom agents, and practical consumer AI applications.
• Homelab & Advanced Networking: Deep knowledge of home networking infrastructure, Proxmox, NAS builds, self-hosting, network management tools, routers, radio networks, and home network security.
• PC Hardware & Linux: Hands-on experience with CPUs, GPUs, benchmarking, custom PC building, hardware testing, and the Linux ecosystem.
• Maker Projects & Hardware Hacking: Smart home automation, Raspberry Pi, ESP32 microcontrollers, DIY hardware builds, and practical workshop tech.
• Core Operating Systems & Software: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, security/privacy tools, productivity software, and web utilities.

Responsibilities:

• Proactively pitch creative, original feature ideas while regularly claiming assigned topics from the editorial board.
• Write clear, engaging, and structurally sound feature articles that simplify complex technical concepts.
• Test software, hardware, or workflows hands-on to provide authentic, step-by-step guidance and technical analysis.
• Input, format, and structure articles inside our in-house CMS according to style guidelines (including screenshots, formatting, and link insertion).
• Work collaboratively with section editors to refine pitches and incorporate feedback.

Application Requirements & Qualifications:

• Track record writing technical guides, hardware deep-dives, or software features in English.
• Access to the physical hardware, custom rigs, microcontrollers, homelab environments, or testing setups required for your primary coverage areas.
• Strong drive to consistently pitch fresh, relevant article ideas that match current tech trends.
• Ability to break down technical jargon into accessible, practical advice for tech enthusiasts and everyday readers alike.

We will get back to you as soon as possible if we think you'd make a solid addition to the team.