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Science Reporter Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

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Science Reporter information

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$25K

$60.2K

$92.7K

How much do science reporter jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for science reporter in Florida is $60,195.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,700.00 and $74,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Science Reporter, you need a solid understanding of scientific concepts, excellent research abilities, and a degree in journalism, communications, or a science-related field. Familiarity with digital content management systems, data visualization tools, and multimedia editing software is often required. Strong storytelling, critical thinking, and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly are essential soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate, engaging, and accessible science coverage that informs and educates the public.

What are the main challenges a Science Reporter faces when translating complex scientific concepts for a general audience?

One of the primary challenges science reporters encounter is accurately simplifying complex scientific information without distorting its meaning. Reporters must ensure their stories are accessible and engaging to readers who may not have a scientific background, while also maintaining credibility and factual accuracy. This often involves collaborating closely with scientists, fact-checkers, and editors, as well as continuously updating their own science literacy to keep pace with rapidly evolving research. Balancing clarity, accuracy, and reader engagement is a key part of the role.

What does a science reporter do?

A science reporter researches, writes, and presents news stories about scientific discoveries, research, and issues for media outlets such as newspapers, magazines, websites, radio, or television. They translate complex scientific concepts into clear and engaging language that the general public can understand. Science reporters often interview scientists, attend conferences, and stay updated on the latest developments in various scientific fields. Their work helps inform the public about the impact of science on society, health, technology, and the environment.

What is the difference between Science Reporter vs Science Writer?

AspectScience ReporterScience Writer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in science, journalism, or related fieldBachelor's degree in science, journalism, or related field
Work EnvironmentMedia outlets, news agencies, online platformsMagazines, scientific journals, online publications
Industry UsageReporting current scientific news and discoveriesWriting in-depth articles, features, and scientific content
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding differences in roles and responsibilitiesClarifying writing focus and career paths

The main difference between a Science Reporter and a Science Writer lies in their focus. Science Reporters primarily gather and report current scientific news for media outlets, emphasizing timely updates. Science Writers, on the other hand, often produce detailed articles, features, and in-depth content for various publications. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and purpose.

What are popular job titles related to Science Reporter jobs in Florida? For Science Reporter jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Science Reporter jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Science Reporter jobs in Florida are:
Science Reporter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Science Reporter job openings in Florida as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $60,195 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

Opinion Columnist

TIMES PUBLISHING COMPANY

Saint Petersburg, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Opinion Columnist

Location: St. Petersburg, FL / Tampa Bay Region


Position Summary:

The Tampa Bay Times is seeking a sharp, digitally savvy Opinion Columnist to help shape public conversation across the Tampa Bay region and Florida. This role is designed for a journalist with strong news instincts, compelling storytelling abilities, and a fearless commitment to accountability journalism.

The ideal candidate is deeply curious about local and state issues, thrives under deadline pressure, and is motivated to move beyond surface-level narratives to deliver reporting and commentary that informs, challenges, and engages readers. This journalist will produce timely, voice-driven opinion columns while also helping expand audience engagement through digital storytelling, video, social media, newsletters, podcasts, and emerging platforms.

This position requires a journalist who is equally comfortable writing quick-turn commentary and pursuing deeper enterprise work. The successful candidate will actively build community relationships and source networks while serving as a visible public-facing voice for the Tampa Bay Times.

Responsibilities:

  • Write timely, compelling opinion columns focused primarily on local and state news, politics, government, and public accountability
  • Identify and develop original column ideas that drive public conversation and advance meaningful community dialogue
  • Cultivate strong relationships with sources, community leaders, elected officials, and residents across the Tampa Bay region
  • Report beyond official narratives to uncover deeper context, accountability angles, and underreported issues
  • Produce a consistent volume of high-quality commentary under tight deadlines
  • Develop a distinct, engaging voice that resonates across multiple audiences and platforms
  • Collaborate with newsroom editors, reporters, and audience teams to maximize reach and impact
  • Create and participate in digital-first storytelling, including video, social media content, newsletters, live events, podcasts, and other audience engagement initiatives
  • Represent the Tampa Bay Times in public forums, community events, and digital spaces as a recognizable voice of the organization
  • Monitor local and state news developments closely and respond quickly to emerging stories and trends
  • Assist with occasional editing, content coordination, and opinion section workflow support as needed

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, political science, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience
  • Minimum of 5 years of professional journalism experience, preferably covering local or state government, politics, public affairs, or community issues
  • Exceptional writing, reporting, interviewing, and storytelling skills
  • Strong understanding of Florida and Tampa Bay news, politics, and community dynamics
  • Demonstrated ability to develop sources and produce original enterprise journalism
  • Proven ability to work effectively under deadline pressure in a fast-paced newsroom environment
  • Comfort appearing on video, audio, social media, and public-facing platforms
  • Experience with digital audience engagement and multimedia storytelling strategies
  • Strong editorial judgment and commitment to journalistic ethics, accuracy, and fairness
  • Ability to adapt quickly between breaking commentary, enterprise reporting, and audience engagement initiatives
  • Collaborative mindset with the ability to work across newsroom teams and platforms

Application Instructions: Interested candidates should submit a resume, at least two writing samples or published columns, and a written statement outlining their vision and ideas for the role by May 29.