Do you work with technical writers?

I am just graduating with a degree in technical writing with an emphasis is computer information systems.

I am curious to know how many of you work with technical writers at your workplace. (or even how many of you know what a technical writer is/does)

If you do, I’d also like to know how involved they are in projects. For example, are they involved in the design process (to help with intuitive design), in web site/information architecture, or do they simply write the manuals for a finished product or process?

And finally, as a recent grad, I am always intereseted in hearing about job openings for technical writers (in Michigan).