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Freelance Science Writer Editor Jobs in California

H & R Computer Consulting Services inc

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Technical Writer/Editor

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Title - Technical Writer/Editor Client - NOAA Location - La Jolla, San Diego CA. Type - Part Time ... Edit and finalize Informational Documents. 5. Edit Working scientific documents, scientific ...

H & R Computer Consulting Services inc

Be Seen First

Technical Writer/Editor

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Title - Technical Writer/Editor Client - NOAA Location - La Jolla, San Diego CA. Type - Part Time ... Edit and finalize Informational Documents. 5. Edit Working scientific documents, scientific ...

Afina

Youtube Script Writer & Editor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

Script Writer & Editor Remote • Part-time or Full-time • YouTube Entertainment About List25 ... We cover everything from history and science to pop culture and the bizarre - and we're growing ...

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How much do freelance science writer editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance science writer editor in California is $22.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $25.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a freelance science writer editor do?

A Freelance Science Writer Editor creates and refines written content about scientific topics for various clients, such as magazines, research institutions, or online publications. Their work involves researching complex scientific information, translating it into clear and engaging language for different audiences, and ensuring accuracy and readability. In addition to writing articles, reports, or web content, they also edit and proofread others' work to maintain high standards of quality and scientific integrity. Freelance professionals manage their own schedules and may work with multiple clients simultaneously.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance science writer editor?

To thrive as a Freelance Science Writer Editor, you need a strong background in scientific subjects, excellent writing and editing skills, and typically a degree in science, journalism, or a related field. Familiarity with citation management tools, content management systems, and editorial style guides like APA or Chicago is often required. Outstanding soft skills include attention to detail, time management, and the ability to communicate complex topics clearly to diverse audiences. These skills ensure accurate, engaging, and credible science communication that meets editorial standards and client expectations.

What are some common challenges freelance science writer editors face when working with multiple clients?

Freelance science writer editors often juggle projects from various clients, which can lead to challenges such as managing overlapping deadlines, adapting to different editorial styles, and quickly mastering new scientific topics. Effective time management and clear communication are essential to ensure client expectations are met and high-quality work is delivered. Additionally, freelancers must proactively seek feedback and stay up-to-date with scientific trends to remain competitive in the field.

What is the difference between Freelance Science Writer Editor vs Freelance Science Communicator?

AspectFreelance Science Writer EditorFreelance Science Communicator
CredentialsBackground in science, writing, editingScience knowledge, communication skills
Work EnvironmentIndependent, remote, client-basedIndependent, remote, outreach-focused
Industry UsagePublishing, editing, content creationPublic engagement, media, outreach
Search & ComparisonOften compared for writing/editing rolesCompared for science outreach roles

While both roles involve science communication, Freelance Science Writer Editors focus on creating and refining written content for scientific audiences, whereas Freelance Science Communicators emphasize engaging the public through various media. The choice depends on whether the focus is on editing and writing or broader science outreach and education.

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Science Writer Editor jobs in California?

For Freelance Science Writer Editor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Science Writer Editor jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Science Writer Editor jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Freelance Science Writer Editor jobs?

Cities in California with the most Freelance Science Writer Editor job openings:

Freelance Science Writer Editor jobs near you

Writer Editor

University of California San Francisco

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

University Of California San Francisco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

233rd of 622 rated colleges and universities

Job description


Job Function Summary:
Involves conceiving, researching, writing, editing, and / or publishing written materials and strategic communications, including publications, articles, proposals, speeches, and promotional material.
Generic Scope
Technical leader with a high degree of knowledge in the overall field and recognized expertise in specific areas; problem-solving frequently requires analysis of unique issues / problems without precedent and / or structure. May manage programs that include formulating strategies and administering policies, processes, and resources; functions with a high degree of autonomy.
Custom Scope
Researches, writes and / or edits high-level communications, publications, and / or reports with complex or sensitive subject matter to audiences that are either broad or highly influential. Requires subject-matter expertise and an in-depth understanding of the audience and the communication strategies that will best serve the institution with that audience. Work is of considerable difficulty and may require political acumen and sensitivity.
The Quantitative Biosciences Institute (QBI) at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is recruiting a highly motivated and collaborative Senior Science Writer and Editor for a part-time Writer Editor 4 position. The selected candidate will join a multi-disciplinary team of scientific experts, writers, managers, and professionals to promote QBI's collaborative biomedical research portfolio. This unique team emphasizes collaboration over competition, connecting experts from around the world to build lasting networks and make a huge scientific impact. As an integral member of the QBI team, you will bring your technical leadership and recognized expertise to tackle unique challenges, develop innovative solutions, and communicate QBI stories and outcomes to a broad audience.
Responsibilities
% of timeEssential Function (Yes/No)Key Responsibilities (To be completed by Supervisor)60%
Researches, writes, and edits high-level communications, publications, and / or reports with complex or sensitive subject matter; assignments may include proposals, articles for publications, briefing materials, talking points, press releases, and web site content.
  • Write and edit comprehensive reviews, perspectives, primary research articles, reports, federally sponsored research, non-profit grants, and industry collaborative ventures
  • Prepare high-level communications for broad audiences utilizing different communications media (e.g. print, audio, video, web)
  • Produce news articles, press releases, profiles, briefings, blogs, website copy, collateral materials, and other written communications.
  • Conduct literature based research, select interview sources, and ensure the accuracy of written content.
  • Obtain copyright permission as needed.

Consults with and advises clients regarding their communications needs
  • Provide subject-matter exerptise and oversight for multiple projects.

May develop publications or web content to meet communication need
  • Edit written materials to ensure clarity, organization, accuracy, consistency, and quality.
  • Plan and execute social media content to highlight QBI initiatives and achievements.
Determines content and sources for publications and written work, conducts research and interviews (with multiple and sometimes conflicting sources), and ensures accuracy, clarity, and effectiveness of writing. May edit and oversee design and production of a variety of print and online material May oversee or lead staff; hire, assign, and oversee freelance staff. Accesses submitted manuscripts and recommends material to be published, including working with authors on developing material for publication, May respond to media inquiries, directing reporters to location media relations officers and other subject-matter experts as appropriate
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in biology, biochemistry, biophysics or related area and / or equivalent experience / training.
  • Minimum 5 years of relevant experience writing and editing for academia.
  • Highly independent and able to take the initiative for developing and pitching story ideas, workshops & outreach exhibits, and creative science communication ventures.
  • Expertise in writing, grammar, syntax, style and punctuation with the ability to write clear and compelling narratives for a variety of styles for both targeted and broad audiences.
  • Advanced experience and knowledge of editorial style and publication guidelines specific for higher education and academia in biology or health sciences.
  • In depth knowledge of applications and software used for publishing, data analysis, image handling, figure development, and web production.
  • Advanced critical thinking, analytical, research and fact verification skills.
  • Advanced interpersonal communication and collaboration skills including project management, organizational, problem recognition, avoidance, and resolution skills.
  • In depth knowledge in own area of scientific expertise and extensive scientific acumen.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • PhD or MD in biology, biochemistry, biophysics or related field
  • Knowledge of UCSF and QBI, including its mission, goals, programs, achievements, and policies.
  • Knowledge of higher education, health sciences, or a related academic or clinical field.
  • Knowledge of video and audio content editing and publishing applications.
  • Comfortable operating in a dynamic, evolving research and development environment.
  • Proven ability to manage multiple projects concurrently and work effectively across functions.
  • Technical expertise in systems biology data integration and mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomics is highly desired.

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