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Science Journalism Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Sralab

Senior Scientific Writer - CBM Lab

Chicago, IL · On-site

$71K - $124K/yr

You'll play a role in something that's never been done before as we integrate science and clinical ... journalism, or English with successful completion of advanced high school or college math, physics ...

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All JobsScience Journalism JobsScience Journalism Jobs in Illinois

Science Journalism information

See Illinois salary details

$10.7K

$42.2K

How much do science journalism jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for science journalism in Illinois is $41,196.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,200.00 and $41,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is science journalism?

Science journalism is a field of reporting that focuses on communicating scientific discoveries, research, and issues to the general public in an accessible and engaging way. Science journalists investigate and write about topics such as health, environment, technology, and space, often translating complex scientific concepts into language that non-experts can understand. Their work is crucial in helping society stay informed about scientific advances and debates, shaping public understanding and policy. Science journalists may work for newspapers, magazines, online outlets, broadcast media, or as freelancers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a science journalist?

To thrive as a Science Journalist, you need a solid background in science or journalism, excellent research skills, and the ability to translate complex scientific topics for general audiences. Familiarity with digital publishing tools, fact-checking systems, and multimedia platforms is often required. Curiosity, critical thinking, and strong storytelling abilities help you create engaging and accurate content. These skills are essential for effectively communicating scientific developments and building trust with readers.

What are some common challenges science journalists face when translating complex scientific concepts for a general audience?

Science journalists often encounter the challenge of making technical or specialized research accessible and engaging for non-expert readers. This requires simplifying terminology without sacrificing accuracy, and finding compelling narratives that illustrate the broader impact of scientific discoveries. Additionally, journalists must verify their sources and maintain objectivity, especially when covering emerging or controversial topics. Balancing deadlines with the need for careful research and expert interviews is also a regular part of the job.

What is the difference between Science Journalism vs Science Communication?

AspectScience JournalismScience Communication
Required CredentialsDegree in journalism, science, or related fieldsDegree in science, communication, or related fields
Work EnvironmentMedia outlets, newspapers, online platformsResearch institutions, science centers, public outreach
Employer & Industry UsageMedia, publishing, online newsAcademic, government agencies, science organizations
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Science Journalism focuses on reporting scientific news to the public through media outlets, emphasizing storytelling and timely updates. Science Communication involves explaining scientific concepts to diverse audiences, often within research institutions or public engagement settings. While both roles require strong communication skills, their work environments and target audiences differ significantly.

How much does a science journalist make?

The average salary for a science journalist in the United States ranges from $45,000 to $85,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions typically start lower, while experienced journalists or those working for major outlets can earn higher salaries. Skills in science communication, writing, and multimedia tools can influence earning potential.

How to become a science journalist?

To become a science journalist, typically a bachelor's degree in journalism, science, or a related field is required. Developing strong writing skills, understanding scientific concepts, and gaining experience through internships or freelance work are important steps in entering the profession.

What do science journalists do?

Science journalists research, write, and edit stories about scientific discoveries, research, and topics for newspapers, magazines, websites, or broadcast media. They translate complex scientific information into clear, accessible language for the general public and often verify facts with experts. Strong writing skills, knowledge of science, and the ability to meet deadlines are essential in this role.

What are popular job titles related to Science Journalism jobs in Illinois?

For Science Journalism jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Science Journalism jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Science Journalism jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Science Journalism jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Science Journalism job openings:

Science Journalism jobs near you
Infographic showing various Science Journalism job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 61% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,196 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Media and Journalism-Temporary Pool

Commonwealth University

Campus, IL • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Position Information
Position Title Media and Journalism-Temporary Pool Posting Number F084 College/Area College of Arts, Humanities, Education and Social Sciences Department Communication Studies, Media & Journalism Bargaining Unit APSCUF Position Type Faculty - Temporary Pools Type of Appointment Part Time Complement Type Temporary Home Campus Bloomsburg City Bloomsburg State Pennsylvania Zip Code 17815 FTE% varies Work Location Home Campus Salary Per Collective Bargaining Agreement If Other, please list Appointment Start Date Start dates will vary based on department needs Benefits
The Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education provides a comprehensive package of employer benefits to eligible employees and their enrolled dependent(s), which include*:
  • Medical and prescription drug benefits.
  • Generous retirement plans, two options:
    • Alternative Retirement Plan (ARP)
    • State Employees' Retirement System (SERS)
  • Tuition benefits for employees and dependents.
  • Paid time off.
  • Employer-paid dental and vision benefits.
  • Employer-paid life insurance.
  • Voluntary insurances and additional retirement programs.
*Specific benefits may vary based upon university, employee group and/or collective bargaining unit. Visit: http://www.passhe.edu/inside/HR/syshr/healthcare/Pages/Summary-of-Benefits.aspx for additional information regarding benefits.
To be eligible for most benefits, you must be a permanent, full-time employee (including temporary, full-time faculty with at least an academic year contract) or a permanent, part-time employee (including temporary, part-time faculty with at least an academic year contract) who is scheduled to work every pay period for at least 50% of full-time hours.
Position Description Summary
Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania invites applications for temporary faculty positions (full-time one semester, part-time one semester or part-time academic year) as needs arise in the Department of Media and Journalism.
This bachelor's degree program balances a broad knowledge of the liberal arts and natural sciences with the professional and theoretical preparation needed by today's media professionals.

Duties
Based on the specific needs of the department at the time of appointment, a successful applicant must be qualified to teach introductory and/or upper-level courses for the Media Production focus of Media and Journalism.

Course(s) may include: MEDJ 270 Digital Video Production, MEDJ 370 Advanced Digital Video Production, MEDJ 371 Digital Video Editing, MEDJ 372 Audio Storytelling, MEDJ 373 Visual Storytelling, MEDJ 470 Media Production Workshop and MEDJ 471 Advanced Video Editing.

The location for these temporary positions varies with the expectation of serving a multi-campus University within the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education.
Qualifying Experience and Education (Minimum/Preferred)
Minimum Requirements:
Information and technological literacy and Master's degree in appropriate field are required.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Ph.D. in appropriate field, college level teaching experience, related professional experience and demonstrated ability to work with diverse populations preferred.
Special Instructions to Applicants
A complete application includes cover letter, resume/CV, unofficial transcripts, contact information for three professional references. Applications must be submitted online by hard deadline 3 years from date of posting. Questions may be directed to Department Chairperson, Dr. Jason Genovese, jgenoves@commonwealthu.edu.

Finalist(s) for these positions must communicate well and successfully complete an interview process and/or teaching demonstration, research presentation as judged by the department faculty.
Supplemental Information
Recommendation for hiring is needed for a majority of the regular, full-time department faculty.
Completing this search is contingent upon student enrollment and available funding.
Faculty may be assigned to provide instruction through distance education.
Background Clearances
Offers of employment are conditional, pending successful completion of the background clearances mandated by Act 153 of 2014 and Board of Governors Policy 2014-01-A: Protection of Minors. In order to qualify for a provisional appointment, the Applicant Acknowledgement Consent Form, Provisional Hire Form, Pennsylvania State Police and Justifacts portion of the clearance process must be successfully completed prior to your start date. The remaining PA Child Abuse History Clearance and FBI Clearance must be successfully completed and returned as soon as possible within the first 90 days of employment.
Diversity Statement
At Commonwealth University we recognize our responsibility to continuously support a living, learning, and working environment that values the diverse contributions from all members of our campus community. Our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion enriches our campus community and is instrumental to our institutional success. Commonwealth University strives to cultivate a campus climate that allows all members to embrace diversity, equity and inclusion as we achieve success both in and out of the classroom, in our work responsibilities, and in our professional lives beyond Commonwealth University. We uphold our commitment to DEI by:
  • Actively supporting and promoting the intellectual and personal growth of our students, inside and outside of the classroom.
  • Providing workshops, trainings, programs designed to broaden the knowledge and understanding of diversity, equity and inclusion within our campus community.
  • Ensuring that all learning and living environments throughout our campus are welcoming and capable of serving all individuals.
Title IX/Clery
The University prohibits any form of discrimination or harassment on the basis of sex, race, color, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, marital or family status, medical condition, genetic information, veteran status, or disability in any decision regarding admissions, employment, or participation in a University program or activity in accordance with the letter and spirit of federal, state, and local non-discrimination and equal opportunity laws, such as Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act and ADA Amendments Act, the Equal Pay Act, and the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act.

The University also complies with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crimes Statistics Act, as amended by the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). Title IX prohibits retaliation for asserting or otherwise participating in claims of sex discrimination. VAWA imposes additional duties on universities and colleges to investigate and respond to reports of sexual assault, stalking, and dating or domestic violence, and to publish policies and procedures related to the way these reports are handled. The University has designated the Title IX Coordinator (Jennifer Raup, Elwell Hall, ORL, 570-389-4808, jraup@commonwealthu.edu or titleixcoord@commonwealthu.edu), to coordinate the University's compliance with Title IX and VAWA and to respond to reports of violations. The University has directed the Police Department to coordinate the University's compliance with the VAWA-related Clery reporting requirements. For information on the University's crime statistics, which is available in a publication called "Annual Security Report", please contact Commonwealth University - Bloomsburg Police at 570-389-2211, Commonwealth University - Mansfield Police at 570-662-4900, or Commonwealth University - Lock Haven Police at 570-484-2278 or by accessing the following website: https://www.commonwealthu.edu/offices-directory/university-police/annual-security-report. Additionally, inquiries concerning Title IX and its implementing regulation can be made to the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights, Region III, The Wanamaker Building, 100 Penn Square East - Suite 505, Philadelphia, PA 19107; Phone: (215) 656-6010; Fax: (215) 656-6020.
About Commonwealth University of PA
The Power of Three Bloomsburg, Lock Haven and Mansfield universities have joined forces to boldly transform higher education in our region and beyond. While we are uniting as Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania, you can expect a college experience that is anything but common.
We're Honoring our History by preserving the founding principles of each campus and continuing our vibrant on-campus student experience, serving as pillars of our communities, supporting students and our neighbors alike.
We're Investing in Today by answering the greatest challenges facing higher education: accessibility, cost, quality, and relevance through the combined strength of our storied institutions.
We're Building a Powerful Tomorrow by boldly changing the trajectory of public education to position ourselves for growth, increased access, and to meet economic and workforce development needs in our region, across Pennsylvania and beyond.
Anticipated Start Date
as needs arise between now and spring 2028
Anticipated End Date
Posting Detail Information
Open Date mm-dd-yyyy 09/18/2023 Close Date mm-dd-yyyy 09/18/2028 Open Until Filled No Quick Link https://commonwealthu.peopleadmin.com/postings/788

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