Speechwriter

Aptive•Washington, DC

5d•$110,000 - $115,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Artemis is seeking a full-time Speechwriter to support a high visibility federal client. The Speechwriter will develop clear, compelling, and accurate speeches and talking points that communicate complex scientific, technical, and policy topics to a wide range of audiences. This role supports senior leadership communications by translating technical information into accessible and engaging messaging aligned with the agency’s mission and communications strategy. The Speechwriter role requires a self-starter, proactive problem solver, and action-oriented team player with experience crafting speeches and written communications for senior leaders and diverse audiences. This position requires an individual who can quickly synthesize complex information, collaborate effectively with subject matter experts, and deliver high-quality written products under tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment. In this role, the Speechwriter will research, draft, and edit speeches, remarks, talking points, and other leadership communications. The individual will work closely with leadership, communications teams, and technical experts to ensure accuracy, clarity, and consistency across written products while maintaining the appropriate voice and tone for each audience and occasion. This is a contingent hire position. This position is located in the Washington, DC metro area. Some onsite work or travel to the client site for meetings is expected. The expected compensation at the time of requisition creation, is between $110,000 and $115,000.00. The position offers with medical, dental and vision coverage. Additional benefits such as 401K, disability insurance and PTO are provided as well

Requirements

Minimum 5 years of professional speech writing experience for different audiences and purposes, including at least 3 years doing speech writing for science-focused organizations.
Demonstrated experience drafting speeches, remarks, or talking points for leadership or senior officials.
Experience researching and factchecking through interviews with subject matter experts and program officials.
Portfolio of writing samples required, focus on scientific topics strongly preferred.
Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public affairs, English, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills with the ability to translate complex topics into accessible messaging.
Ability to work under tight deadlines while managing multiple assignments.
Strong collaboration skills and ability to incorporate feedback from multiple stakeholders.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Excel).
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and respond effectively to changing priorities.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance.
Legal authorization to work in the United States.

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting communications for federal agencies, scientific organizations, or research-focused institutions.
Familiarity with communications strategies related to science, technology, research, or public policy topics.
Experience working in a fast-paced communications or public affairs environment.
Strong analytical and research skills.
Ability to quickly synthesize information from multiple sources and develop clear narratives.
Ability to communicate effectively with subject matter experts, leadership teams, and communications staff.
Ability to remain calm and responsive when supporting high-visibility communications under tight deadlines.
Strong critical thinking, analytical and time management skills.
Proven ability to organize, prioritize and work well with others.
Ability to communicate thoughts, ideas and solutions logically both written and orally.
Ability to stay calm under pressure and in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to receive feedback from clients and implement changes quickly and effectively.
Ability to get up to speed quickly on complex issues.
Desire to work in a fast-paced, rapidly evolving environment.

Responsibilities

Draft speeches, remarks, talking points, and other leadership communications for a variety of audiences and events.
Translate complex scientific, technical, and policy information into clear, compelling language tailored to diverse audiences.
Conduct background research and gather information from internal sources and subject matter experts to inform written products.
Interview subject matter experts, program officials, and stakeholders to obtain information and verify the accuracy of speech content.
Factcheck speech drafts and supporting materials to ensure accuracy, clarity, and alignment with agency priorities.
Collaborate with communications staff and leadership teams to refine messaging and incorporate feedback.
Adapt messaging to reflect the voice and style of the speaker while maintaining consistency with organizational messaging.
Support the development of briefing materials and supporting documentation related to speeches and public remarks.
Revise and edit written materials quickly in response to leadership feedback or evolving priorities.
Ensure written communications maintain a high level of quality, professionalism, and clarity.