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Contract Scientific Writer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... within contract turnaround requirements * Contribute to key program planning CDRLs including the ... Acceptable related fields include engineering documentation, scientific writing, defense ...

Technical Writer (onsite)

Monterey, CA ยท On-site

$65K - $78K/yr

Technical Writer Contract: IDIQ Naval Postgraduate School Research and Educational Support Service ... Experience in technical or scientific writing . * Demonstrated ability to independently research ...

Technical Writer (onsite)

Monterey, CA ยท On-site

$65K - $78K/yr

Technical Writer Contract: IDIQ Naval Postgraduate School Research and Educational Support Service ... Experience in technical or scientific writing . * Demonstrated ability to independently research ...

Pharma Patent Writer

Indianapolis, IN ยท On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Cogent Scientific, an insourced contract research organization, is looking for the right people to ... We currently have a role available for a Pharma Patent Writer. This position MAY transition into a ...

Salary: $110K-$120K, depending upon experience Cogent Scientific, an insourced contract research ... We currently have a role available for a Pharma Patent Writer. This position MAY transition into a ...

... Contract Location: Indianapolis, IN 46256 (Hybrid) Hybrid Schedule: 3 days on-site with 2 days remote Description: * The Technical Writer will play a pivotal role in translating the science ...

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Contract Scientific Writer information

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$47

$73

How much do contract scientific writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract scientific writer in the United States is $47.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.65 and $58.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do I need a PhD to be a science writer?

A PhD is not required to be a contract scientific writer, but advanced degrees can enhance credibility and understanding of complex topics. Many science writers have bachelor's or master's degrees in relevant fields and develop skills in scientific research, writing, and editing. Employers often value experience and clear communication over formal advanced degrees.

Can I be a freelance writer with no experience?

Contract scientific writing typically requires some background in science or research, but entry-level freelancers can start by building a portfolio through internships, online courses, or volunteering. Developing strong writing skills and familiarity with scientific terminology and tools like reference management software can improve chances of securing freelance opportunities without prior experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Contract Scientific Writer position, and why are they important?

To excel as a Contract Scientific Writer, you need strong scientific knowledge, excellent writing and editing skills, and typically a degree in a science or medical field. Familiarity with reference management software, document collaboration tools, and adherence to style guides like AMA or APA is often required. Attention to detail, time management, and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly are important soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for producing accurate, high-quality scientific documents on deadline and collaborating effectively with researchers and clients.

What are typical challenges that Contract Scientific Writers face in their daily work?

Contract Scientific Writers often juggle multiple projects with tight deadlines, requiring strong time management and organizational skills. Interpreting complex scientific data and ensuring accuracy while translating it into accessible content can be demanding. Additionally, writers must adapt quickly to each client's unique requirements and editorial standards, sometimes working with diverse teams of researchers or subject matter experts. Effective communication and a proactive approach to clarifying expectations with clients help mitigate these challenges and ensure successful project delivery.

What is a Contract Scientific Writer job?

A Contract Scientific Writer is a freelance or temporary professional who creates scientific documents, such as research articles, regulatory submissions, clinical study reports, and medical communication materials. They often work with pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, or healthcare organizations to translate complex scientific data into clear, accurate, and accessible content. This role requires strong writing skills, subject matter expertise, and the ability to adhere to industry guidelines. Contract arrangements allow flexibility in workload and project selection, making it an attractive option for experts in scientific communication.

Is scientific writing a good career?

Scientific writing is a viable career that involves creating clear, accurate, and well-structured documents such as research articles, regulatory submissions, and technical reports. It requires strong writing skills, subject matter knowledge, and often familiarity with tools like reference management software; job prospects can be stable in industries like pharmaceuticals, biotech, and academia.

How much do science writers make?

Science writers' salaries vary based on experience, education, and employment setting. Entry-level writers typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, while experienced professionals can make over $100,000, especially if working as freelancers or in specialized fields. Strong writing skills and knowledge of scientific topics are essential for higher earning potential.
More about Contract Scientific Writer jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Scientific Writer jobs? Cities with the most Contract Scientific Writer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Scientific Writer jobs? The most popular types of Scientific Writer jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Scientific Writer jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Scientific Writer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Contract Scientific Writer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Full Time, 40% Part Time, and 40% Contract. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,010 per year, or $47.1 per hour.

Technical Writer

Bowhead

Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Overview

Technical Writer:

Bowhead is seeking a Technical writer to support the Joint Technical Coordinating Group for Munitions Effectiveness JTCG/ME Program Office. The Technical Writer will develop, edit, and maintain technical documentation, program guidance, strategic planning documents, newsletters, briefing materials, and web content. This role requires strong technical writing expertise, stakeholder collaboration, and the ability to produce accurate, publication-ready deliverables that meet DoD quality and compliance standards.

Responsibilities
  • Update and maintain program guidance documentation (JLF and JTCG/ME Program Guides, Software Development and Data Delivery Process Guides, and V&V Process Guides) through the full update cycle - baseline inventory, SME interviews, version control, and structured review within contract turnaround requirements
  • Contribute to key program planning CDRLs including the Knowledge Management Plan (A002), Strategic Communications Plan (A003), and Data Management Strategy (A004) through stakeholder interviews, taxonomy and audience mapping, and comment-resolution cycles; document the yearly Program Build process and deliver monthly Technical Reports (A005)
  • Produce quarterly newsletters, website content for The Bugle, brochures, briefing templates, and presentation materials; ensure editorial, layout, distribution-statement, and Section 508 compliance with post-publication metrics reporting
  • Maintain configuration management for the Consolidated Deliverable Package, including control numbering, revision history, change logs, and archival structure
  • Support quality control through checklist-based self-review, peer editorial and compliance reviews, and defect logging
  • Provide ad hoc technical writing support to the Knowledge Management Team and program office as needed
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's in a STEM or communications field
  • 3+ years of experience in technical writing (6 years preferred), technical documentation, or related field; Acceptable related fields include engineering documentation, scientific writing, defense acquisition documentation, systems engineering documentation, software documentation, and technical communications.
  • Proficiency with MS Word (track-changes, document controls), SharePoint, and PowerPoint. Working knowledge of Microsoft 365 Government Community Cloud (GCC), Microsoft Lists, and Power Automate is preferred. Working proficiency with Adobe InDesign or equivalent professional layout software is preferred for the information product responsibilities.
  • Ability to write technical documentation for engineering, scientific, or defense-acquisition audiences is required, with a portfolio of work samples available on request.
  • Ability to conduct structured stakeholder interviews, synthesize subject matter expert input, and resolve technical contradictions in writing before submission is required.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Background in Survivability, Lethality, and Vulnerability (SLV) analysis or weapons effectiveness documentation is strongly preferred.
  • TS/SCI clearance eligibility is preferred
  • Experience with IEEE 1012 V&V processes and with DoD acquisition lifecycle documentation (Systems Engineering Management Plans, Concept of Operations documents, Interface Control Documents, Test and Evaluation Master Plans) is preferred.
  • Demonstrated experience producing publication-ready newsletters, brochures, or marketing collateral for a federal government customer is preferred.
  • Familiarity with Distribution Statement determination workflows under DoDI 5230.24 and with Section 508 accessibility conformance for federal web content is preferred.
  • Anti-Terrorism Level I, Counterintelligence Awareness and Reporting (CI116.16), and DoD Information Assurance Awareness training currency at the time of hire is preferred

Physical Demands:

  • Must be able to lift up to 15 to 25 pounds
  • Must be able to stand and walk for prolonged amounts of time
  • Must be able to twist, bend and squat periodically

SECURITY CLEARANCE REQUIRED: Must be able to maintain a clearance at the Secret level. US Citizenship is a requirement for a Secret clearance at this location.

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Employment Type: FULL_TIME