ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freelance Science Writing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

VML

Medical Editor - Freelance

New York, NY · On-site

$55/hr

Who we are: International Meetings and Science (IMsci), a division of VML Health, works with ... Strong oral and written communications skills and expert knowledge of AMA style * Well-organized ...

Optimum

News 12 Meteorologist - Freelance

Bethpage, NY · On-site

$57K - $94K/yr

A passion for communicating weather information through graphics, verbally, and in writing is ... Bachelor's degree in Meteorology or Atmospheric Science preferred, Master's degree is a plus

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsScience Writing JobsFreelance Science Writing Jobs

Freelance Science Writing information

See salary details

$7

$23

$32

How much do freelance science writing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance science writing in the United States is $23.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $26.20 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 understanding of scientific concepts, excellent writing skills, and typically a degree in science or journalism. Familiarity with research databases, citation management software, and content management systems is often required. Strong soft skills include curiosity, self-motivation, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly for diverse audiences. These skills ensure accuracy, credibility, and engaging content that meets the needs of clients and readers.

What is freelance science writing?

Freelance science writing involves creating articles, reports, blog posts, or other written content about scientific topics for various clients on a contract basis. Science writers translate complex research and scientific concepts into clear, engaging language for a range of audiences, such as the general public, students, or industry professionals. Freelancers in this field work independently, often pitching story ideas to magazines, websites, or organizations, and may write about subjects like health, technology, environment, or space. This career requires strong writing skills, a solid understanding of scientific topics, and the ability to communicate clearly with both scientists and non-experts.

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

AspectFreelance Science WritingScientific Content Writer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in science or related field, writing experienceOften requires a degree in science, communication, or journalism
Work EnvironmentIndependent, remote, project-basedUsually employed by companies, agencies, or media outlets
Employer & IndustryClients across various industries, including publishing, education, biotechOrganizations producing scientific articles, reports, or educational content

Freelance Science Writers work independently on diverse projects for multiple clients, often remotely. Scientific Content Writers are typically employed by organizations to produce consistent scientific materials. Both roles require scientific knowledge and strong writing skills, but Freelance Science Writers enjoy more flexibility and varied assignments, while Scientific Content Writers often have a more structured work environment.

How do freelance science writers typically find and secure consistent work?

Freelance science writers often secure assignments by building strong relationships with editors, pitching story ideas to publications, and maintaining an updated portfolio of their work. Many also join professional networks or online platforms dedicated to freelance writing, which offer job listings and opportunities to connect with potential clients. While the freelance landscape can be competitive, regularly pitching fresh, timely ideas and demonstrating expertise in specific scientific fields can help writers develop a steady workflow over time.
More about Freelance Science Writing jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Science Writing jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Science Writing job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Science Writing jobs? The most popular types of Science Writing jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Science Writing jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Science Writing jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Science Writing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Science Writing jobs are:
Freelance Science Writing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Science Writing job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Part Time. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,412 per year, or $23.3 per hour.
Medical Editor - Freelance

Medical Editor - Freelance

VML

New York, NY • On-site

$55/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Who We Are
VML, part of WPP, is a leading creative company that combines brand experience, customer experience, and commerce, creating connected brands to drive growth. VML is celebrated for its innovative and human first, award-winning work for blue chip client partners including AstraZeneca, Colgate-Palmolive, Dell, Ford, Microsoft, Nestlé, The Coca-Cola Company, and Wendy's. The agency is recognized by the Forrester Wave™ Reports, as a Leader among Marketing Creative and Content Service Providers, Commerce Services, Global Digital Experience Services, Global Marketing Services and, most recently, Marketing Measurement & Optimization. In addition, VML's specialist health network, VML Health, is one of the world's largest and most awarded health agencies. VML's global network is powered by 26,000 talented people across 55+ markets, with principal offices in Kansas City, New York, Detroit, London, São Paulo, Shanghai, Singapore, and Sydney.
About WPP
WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world's leading brands. We unite cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next-generation production, transformative enterprise solutions and expert strategic counsel in a single company - powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform, WPP Open, to help our clients navigate change, capture opportunity and deliver transformational growth. For more information, visit WPP.com.
Who we are:
International Meetings and Science (IMsci), a division of VML Health, works with companies to build world-class healthcare and pharmaceutical brands among medical professionals and consumers, with a transmedia storytelling approach that covers medical education strategies.
Who we are looking for:
IMsci is seeking a Medical Editor Frelance to join the team in either our New York City or Stamford, CT offices or as a Hybrid Freelance W2 hourly employee. As a Medical Editor - Freelance you will manage all editorial requirements of assigned projects and ensure the accuracy and integrity of all jobs you work on. You will follow internal processes, AMA requirements, and client-specific style to ensure pieces are of the highest editorial quality.
What you'll do:
  • Copy edit and proofread various types of medical communication materials for syntax/grammar, spelling, consistency, and AMA and client-mandated style.
  • Ensure work is delivered consistent with set deadlines.
  • Work collaboratively with science team to ensure all content is factually accurate and well supported with credible proof sources.
  • Alert the Editorial Director of any significant issues
  • Help maintain brand style guides for editorial use.
  • Follow all internal processes and suggest modifications as needs arise.
What you'll need:
  • Bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or science
  • Previous experience (1-3 years) at medical communications agency or related industry preferred, but will consider strong candidates without medical communication experience
  • Strong oral and written communications skills and expert knowledge of AMA style
  • Well-organized and able to work calmly and efficiently under pressure
  • Flexibility to work late/weekends when required
  • Good working knowledge of Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Adobe Acrobat
  • Comfortable with learning new technologies

Again this role will be Hybrid, W2 hourly with a pay range of $55 to 80$ per hour.
The compensation for this position at the time of this posting is indicated below. Individual compensation varies based on job-related factors, including location, business needs, level of responsibility, experience, and qualifications. We offer a competitive benefits package. Click WPP Benefits for more details.
$55-$80 USD
We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we've adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office an average of four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.
WPP (VML) is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.
VML is a WPP agency (NYSE: WPP). For more information, please visit www.vml.com, and follow along on Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.
When you click "Submit Application", this will send any information you add below to VML. Before you do this, we think it's a good idea to read through our Recruitment Privacy Policy. California residents should read our California Recruitment Privacy Notice. This explains what we do with your personal data when you apply for a role with us, and, how you can update the information you have provided us with or how to remove it.

Apply