Senior Technical Writer-Editor
About The Position
The Senior Technical Writer-Editor creates, edits, and manages complex written products in support of the Office of Legislative and Public Affairs (OLPA) at the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). The role translates scientific and technical information into clear, accurate, accessible content, including articles, white papers, fact sheets, policy summaries, and web pages. The writer-editor collaborates with OLPA staff, program officials, and scientists to research and fact-check content, mentors junior writers, and ensures products meet federal plain-language and accessibility standards.
Requirements
- At least 5 years of professional writing and editing experience, including at least 3 years writing about scientific and technological subjects.
- Experience writing both short- and long-form content, including press releases, fact sheets, blogs, reports, and webpages.
- Experience conducting research and fact-checking using written sources and direct interviews with subject-matter experts.
- Ability to distill complex scientific and technical topics into clear, compelling language for diverse audiences.
- Proficiency in AP Style, plain-language writing, and editing for scientific accuracy.
- Familiarity with federal communication requirements, including the Plain Writing Act of 2010 and Section 508 compliance.
- Knowledge of search engine optimization (SEO) and answer engine optimization (AEO) principles.
- Candidates should be prepared to provide writing samples demonstrating proficiency in the responsibilities above.
Nice To Haves
- Experience writing for federal agencies, scientific funders, or research-focused organizations.
- A degree in journalism, communications, or a science-related field.
Responsibilities
- Write and edit articles, white papers, fact sheets, blogs, press releases, web pages, and other publications on science topics of stakeholder interest, including significant or potentially controversial topics.
- Translate complex scientific and technical concepts into plain language for non-expert audiences.
- Draft and edit web content summarizing policies and guidance for proposers and awardees.
- Conduct research and fact-checking with OLPA staff, program officials, and scientists to ensure written products are accurate and clear.
- Ensure products comply with the Plain Writing Act of 2010 and Section 508 accessibility standards.
- Mentor junior writers and help define documentation standards and strategies.
Benefits
- Competitive annual salary commensurate with experience.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
No Education Listed
