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Scientific Technical Writer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Deliver oral and written status and progress briefs to program management, executive management and ... Certification of a Technical & Scientific program desirable Experience in video editing desirable ...

New

Technical Writing Specialist

Pella, IA ยท On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Technical Writer Pella, Iowa (hybrid) As a Technical Writer, you will transform complex technical ... S.)or technical equivalent in journalism, science writing, English,technical communication or a ...

Technical Writing Tutor

Ames, IA ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes clarity, conciseness, and accuracy in conveying complex information and connects technical writing to software development, engineering, healthcare, and scientific communication ...

Technical Writing Tutor

Iowa City, IA ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes clarity, conciseness, and accuracy in conveying complex information and connects technical writing to software development, engineering, healthcare, and scientific communication ...

Technical Analyst

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Bachelor's degree in data science, computer science, information systems, computer engineering or ... Excellent written and oral communication skills. * Excellent listening and interpersonal skills.

Technical Analyst

Cedar Rapids, IA ยท On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Bachelor's degree in data science, computer science, information systems, computer engineering or ... Excellent written and oral communication skills. * Excellent listening and interpersonal skills.

Technical Analyst- Platforms

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

Bachelor's degree in data science, computer science, information systems, computer engineering or ... Excellent written and oral communication skills. * Excellent listening and interpersonal skills.

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Scientific Technical Writer information

See Iowa salary details

$20

$44

$69

How much do scientific technical writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for scientific technical writer in Iowa is $44.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.59 and $55.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a scientific technical writer do?

A Scientific Technical Writer creates clear, accurate, and accessible documentation about scientific research, products, or processes. They translate complex scientific concepts into materials such as research papers, manuals, grant proposals, and regulatory documents. Their work helps scientists, researchers, and the general public understand scientific information, ensuring accuracy and compliance with industry standards. Scientific Technical Writers often collaborate with subject matter experts to gather information and ensure technical accuracy.

What does a scientific technical writer do?

As a scientific technical writer, you write documents that communicate or explain a scientific concept. Technical writing is not like most other forms of writing. In science, this role focuses on manuals, white papers, journal papers, and similarly advanced material that focuses on a specific, well-educated audience. Many scientific technical writers work as part of a larger team and may spend days, weeks, or even months gathering information before starting to work on a technical document. This job often involves transforming data and procedures into clear, concise explanations, especially if the document has any legal implications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a scientific technical writer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Scientific Technical Writer, you need expertise in scientific concepts, excellent writing skills, and a relevant degree in science or technical communication. Familiarity with documentation tools, reference management software, and content management systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and the ability to translate complex information for varied audiences are essential soft skills. These skills ensure clear, accurate, and accessible scientific documentation, which is crucial for research dissemination and regulatory compliance.

What are some common challenges scientific technical writers face when translating complex research into accessible documentation?

Scientific Technical Writers often encounter the challenge of conveying highly technical or specialized research in a manner that is both accurate and understandable for diverse audiences. This may involve collaborating closely with subject matter experts to clarify terminology, balancing scientific detail with readability, and ensuring compliance with industry or regulatory standards. Additionally, writers must frequently manage tight deadlines and adapt to rapidly evolving scientific fields, which requires strong organizational skills and continuous learning.

What is the difference between Scientific Technical Writer vs Technical Writer?

AspectScientific Technical WriterTechnical Writer
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in science or engineering, technical writing certificationsBachelor's in English, communications, or related field, technical writing certifications
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, scientific companies, academiaCorporate, technology, manufacturing, or software companies
Industry UsageResearch, pharmaceuticals, biotech, academiaIT, engineering, software, manufacturing

Scientific Technical Writers focus on creating detailed scientific documentation, research papers, and technical reports within scientific and research environments. Technical Writers have a broader scope, producing manuals, guides, and documentation across various industries. While both roles require strong writing skills and technical knowledge, Scientific Technical Writers typically need a background in science or engineering, whereas Technical Writers may come from diverse fields. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers target the right roles and qualifications.

Are scientific technical writers still in demand?

Scientific technical writers are in steady demand due to the need for clear communication of complex scientific information across industries such as healthcare, technology, and research. Strong writing skills, familiarity with scientific concepts, and proficiency with tools like MS Word and Adobe are valuable for these roles, which often require a bachelor's degree in a related field.

What are popular job titles related to Scientific Technical Writer jobs in Iowa?

For Scientific Technical Writer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Scientific Technical Writer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Scientific Technical Writer jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Scientific Technical Writer jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Scientific Technical Writer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Scientific Technical Writer jobs in IA?

For Scientific Technical Writer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Scientific Technical Writer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $92,058 per year, or $44.3 per hour.

Technical Writer

THE WITTERN GROUP, Inc.

Des Moines, IA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Description
Responsibilities:
โ€ข Research and collect information from a variety of sources including manuals, white papers, design specifications, project plans, assembly procedures, bills of material, Solid Works 3D drawings, test plans & procedures, etc.
โ€ข Review and revise documents and procedures including, manufacturing process instructions, test procedures, equipment binders, etc. to standardize manufacturing documentation.
โ€ข Ensure that the documents are clear, concise, and technically accurate. Use photographs, drawings, diagrams, animation, and charts to increase users' understanding,
โ€ข Participate in formal design reviews to generate notes and action items.
โ€ข Deliver oral and written status and progress briefs to program management, executive management and customer management as directed.
Requirements:
โ€ข B.S. in a technical discipline is preferred, but not required for a candidate who has relevant 2 years' experience technical writing experience in manufacturing environment.
โ€ข Ability to read, analyze, and interpret system specifications, assembly/test procedures, engineering drawings, charts, wiring diagrams and schematics.
โ€ข Must have strong communication skills (both verbal and written); must be able to take complex, technical information and translate it for colleagues and consumers who have nontechnical backgrounds.
โ€ข Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
โ€ข Ability to multitask and create, maintain and manage multiple project objectives according to deadlines.
โ€ข Proficient in a range of Microsoft products (e.g. Word, Power Point, Excel).
โ€ข Knowledge of MS Project, CAD and graphic tools is a plus.
โ€ข Proficient in producing well-written English language documentation.
โ€ข Certification of a Technical & Scientific program desirable
โ€ข Experience in video editing desirable
Physical Requirements:
โ€ข Walking, vision, repetitive motion activities, computer/keyboard
Requirements
Requirements:
  • B.S. in a technical discipline is preferred, but not required for a candidate who has relevant 2 years' experience technical writing experience in manufacturing environment.
  • Ability to read, analyze, and interpret system specifications, assembly/test procedures, engineering drawings, charts, wiring diagrams and schematics.
  • Must have strong communication skills (both verbal and written); must be able to take complex, technical information and translate it for colleagues and consumers who have nontechnical backgrounds.
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
  • Ability to multitask and create, maintain and manage multiple project objectives according to deadlines.
  • Proficient in a range of Microsoft products (e.g. Word, Power Point, Excel).
  • Knowledge of MS Project, CAD and graphic tools is a plus.
  • Proficient in producing well-written English language documentation.
  • Certification of a Technical & Scientific program desirable
  • Experience in video editing desirable

Physical Requirements:
  • Walking, vision, repetitive motion activities, computer/keyboard