Freelance Scientific Copy Editor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Artemis is seeking a full-time Copy Editor with demonstrated experience supporting a large-scale federal communications contract. The Copy Editor supports the government client by copyediting and proofreading written products for grammar, punctuation, consistency, readability, plain language, accessibility and adherence to AP Style, client style, and organizational standards. The role edits content across testimony, press releases, fact sheets, blogs, webpages, reports, social media and other communication products.

This role requires a self-starter, proactive problem solver and action-oriented team player with deep copyediting experience, including science writing intended for broad audiences. This position needs an individual who can maintain style consistency, improve clarity and readability, support scientific accuracy, ensure plain language and accessibility compliance, and work efficiently across multiple formats and deadlines.

This is a contingent hire position. Offers will be contingent upon client approval, ability to meet security requirements, and the ability to adhere to any on-site requirements (which may change at contract award).

Remote work is anticipated. However, all candidates should be local to the Washington, DC metro area as on-site work may be required.

• Copyedit and proofread materials for grammar, punctuation, consistency and readability.
• Edit written content across multiple formats, including testimony, press releases, fact sheets, blogs, webpages, reports and social media.
• Ensure written content adheres to AP Style, client writing guidelines, and applicable organizational standards.
• Ensure plain language and accessibility compliance across written content.
• Review science-focused content for clarity, consistency and suitability for broad audiences.
• Maintain and follow organization-specific style guidance for recurring products and campaigns.
• Collaborate with writers, editors, government staff, program officials and subject matter experts to resolve editorial questions.
• Identify and correct inconsistencies in terminology, tone, formatting, citations, names, dates and other key details.
• Support quality assurance for high-visibility communications products before publication or delivery.
• Manage competing editing assignments and meet tight deadlines.
• Participate in special projects and perform other related editing and quality assurance duties as assigned.

• 1 year of professional copyediting experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in communication, writing, public relations, or related field.
• Experience copyediting science writing intended for broad audiences.
• Experience editing written content across multiple formats, including testimony, press releases, fact sheets, blogs, webpages, reports and social media.
• Demonstrated proficiency in AP Style.
• Experience maintaining and following an organization-specific style guide.
• Familiarity with federal communication requirements, including the Plain Writing Act of 2010 and Section 508 compliance.
• Strong command of grammar, punctuation, consistency, readability and editorial quality assurance.
• Ability to edit complex scientific and technical topics for clarity, accessibility and accuracy.
• Ability to manage competing deadlines and collaborate effectively with writers and communications stakeholders.

• 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.

The National Science Foundation Office of Legislative and Public Affairs (OLPA) requires contractor support to provide writing and editing services for the agency. This role supports OLPA communications by translating complex NSF programs, initiatives and research findings into clear, accurate and accessible content for internal and external audiences.