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Science Journalism Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

BLN24

Scientific Technical Writer/Editor

Mclean, VA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, English, Science Communication, Atmospheric Science, Environmental Science, Meteorology, Public Policy, or related discipline, * Minimum six (6) years ...

BLN24

Scientific Technical Writer/Editor

Mclean, VA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, English, Science Communication, Atmospheric Science, Environmental Science, Meteorology, Public Policy, or related discipline, * Minimum six (6) years ...

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$43.1K

How much do science journalism jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for science journalism in Virginia is $42,149.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,100.00 and $42,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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

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 the most commonly searched types of Science Journalism jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Science Journalism jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Science Journalism jobs in Virginia? For Science Journalism jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Science Journalism jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Science Journalism jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Science Journalism jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Science Journalism job openings:
Science Journalism jobs near you
Infographic showing various Science Journalism job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 76% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,149 per year, or $20.3 per hour.
Multimedia Journalism Professor of Practice

Multimedia Journalism Professor of Practice

Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 18 days ago

Virginia Tech rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

204th of 555 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Multimedia Journalism Professor of Practice

Apply now Back to search results Job no: 535951
Work type: Teaching & Research Faculty
Senior management: Liberal Arts and Human Sciences
Department: School of Communication
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Categories: Instructional / Teaching Faculty

Job Description

The Virginia Tech School of Communication invites applications for a full-time, open-rank professor of practice (non-tenure-track). The successful candidate will be expected to teach multimedia journalism courses, which could include Media Writing, Multimedia Reporting, Advanced Multimedia Reporting, Visual News Reporting, and Digital Newsroom, as well as courses relevant to the successful candidate's area of expertise. The expected teaching load is three classes per semester.

Required Qualifications

Master's degree in journalism or related field or bachelor's degree in journalism, communication, or related field with substantial experience in journalism.
Demonstration of extensive professional journalism industry expertise.

Preferred Qualifications

Doctorate in journalism or related field
Full-time experience in journalism
Broadcast news reporting experience
Broadcast news production experience
College-level teaching experience
Journalism experience in a research area of the School (sports, health, risk/reputation, AI, social advocacy)
Familiarity with multimedia equipment (mirrorless/DSLR cameras, ENG cameras, control room equipment, etc.) and software (such as Adobe Creative Suite) for photo, video, and audio editing.

How to Apply

Please submit (1) a curriculum vitae (2) a cover letter briefly detailing prior teaching experience (if applicable) and fit with the job description, school, and Virginia Tech's Principles of Community and, (3) contact information, including email addresses, for three references. Application materials must be submitted online at www.jobs.vt.edu.

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Regular

Review Date

4/30/2026

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Hannah Deuyour at hannah84@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: March 31, 2026
Applications close:

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About Virginia Tech

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Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

Social media

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