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Freelance Science Writer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Freelance Science Writer information

See Michigan salary details

$6

$20

$28

How much do freelance science writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance science writer in Michigan is $20.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Science Writer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Science Writer, you need a solid background in science or journalism, excellent research abilities, and strong writing skills, often supported by a relevant degree or writing portfolio. Familiarity with citation management tools, publication platforms, and content management systems is typically required. Outstanding communication, adaptability, and the ability to translate complex scientific concepts for diverse audiences are crucial soft skills. These skills ensure accurate, engaging content that meets client needs and builds credibility in the competitive science communication field.

What Does a Freelance Science Writer Do?

A freelance science writer writes scientific content. Your duties are to research topics, write appropriate material, proofread and edit, check for accuracy, and then submit to a platform. You create content for all levels of understanding and work to explain complex issues in a relatable way. In some situations, you need to have your writing peer-reviewed before publishing. Freelance science writers can write articles for magazines, newspapers, journals, blogs, websites, and even their own books. You can write first and then search for a publisher or find a job looking to contract an independent writer for the job.

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

Freelance science writers often juggle projects for different clients with varying editorial styles, deadlines, and subject matter expertise requirements. Managing time effectively and adapting writing tone and complexity for distinct audiences can be challenging, especially when switching between academic, industry, and popular science publications. Building strong communication with editors and maintaining a well-organized workflow are key strategies to overcome these challenges and consistently deliver high-quality work.

What is the difference between Freelance Science Writer vs Scientific Content Writer?

AspectFreelance Science WriterScientific Content Writer
CredentialsTypically requires a background in science or related fields, strong writing skillsSimilar credentials, often with specialized knowledge in scientific topics
Work EnvironmentIndependent, remote, project-basedOften employed by organizations or agencies, but can also freelance
Industry UsageUsed across scientific publishing, media, and educationCommon in scientific journals, educational content, and corporate communication

Freelance Science Writers and Scientific Content Writers share similar educational backgrounds and work remotely, often on a project basis. The main difference lies in their employment setting: Freelance Science Writers operate independently, while Scientific Content Writers may work within organizations. Both roles require strong scientific knowledge and writing skills, making them closely related in the scientific communication industry.

What does a freelance science writer do?

A freelance science writer researches, writes, and edits content about scientific topics for various clients, including magazines, websites, academic institutions, and businesses. Their work may involve translating complex scientific information into clear, engaging articles, blog posts, press releases, or technical documents for a general audience. Freelance science writers often pitch story ideas, conduct interviews with experts, and work on a project-by-project basis, allowing for flexibility and a diverse range of assignments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Science Writer jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Science Writer jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Science Writer jobs in Michigan? For Freelance Science Writer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Science Writer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Science Writer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Freelance Science Writer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Freelance Science Writer job openings:
Infographic showing various Freelance Science Writer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,195 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago


Western Michigan University rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

483rd of 614 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Details
Posting Summary
College
College Of Arts And Sciences
Executive Area
Provost & VP Academic Affairs
Department
Medieval Institute
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
S1664P
Job Type
Full Time, Regular
Pay Type
Nonexempt/Hourly
Pay Grade
E
Campus Location
WMU-Kalamazoo - East Campus
Salary Range
Pay is commensurate with qualifications and experience, combined with an excellent benefits package.
Number of Vacancies
1
General Summary
Develops and implements marketing, promotion, and communication strategies for the department under general supervision. Oversees marketing for all Medieval Institute Publications titles; coordinates editorial and administrative tasks, including peer review processes, metadata management, rights and permission records, and paperwork for freelancers. Maintains three websites and an active social media presence for Medieval Institute Publications, the Medieval Institute, and the International Congress on Medieval Studies.
Major Duties
  • Develops or assists with development of promotional materials and designs for marketing projects utilizing a variety of tools.
  • Coordinates development of marketing and communication material and develops copy.
  • Writes and proofs promotional material, reports and publications, press releases, Web and social media content.
  • Translates message points into clear communication and meets well-defined communication objectives.
  • Gathers information and data for various marketing and communication initiatives.
  • Coordinates marketing communication activities.
  • Assists with planning and execution of various events.
  • May approve advertising within budget parameters.
  • May be responsible for special projects or operational services.
  • May supervise student employees.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in related field from an accredited institution.
  • One year's relevant experience.

Desired Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Medieval Studies or related field from an accredited institution.
  • Two years relevant experience.
  • Exposure with Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, and Canva.

Special Instructions to Applicants
  • External applicants should use the WMU - Application.
  • Internal applicants should use the WMU - Internal Application.

Additional Position Information
  • This position is scheduled 30 hours per week, which is a FTE 0.75.
  • Staff Compensation System pay grades and rates are available at: https://wmich.edu/hr/staffcompensation
  • Western Michigan University offers generous benefits to its employees including health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, retirement, and tuition discount for the employee and tuition remission for eligible dependents. To access information about the specific benefits available for this position, go to: https://www.wmich.edu/hr/enrollment-staff

Physical requirements and working conditions
  • Office or other indoor work with minimal physical demands such as occasionally lifting/moving materials less than 25 pounds.
  • Work is generally performed in a well lit, temperature-controlled indoor environment with occasional exposure to the outdoors and/or any number of elements.

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