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Scientific Technical Writer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related scientific/technical field ... Excellent written and verbal communication skills; able to train and influence others. * Able to ...

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 Service Manager

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$113K - $113K/yr

Experience * Four year college biological science degree in entomology or related sciences is ... Written and verbal communication skills, including delivery of formal presentations * Quantitative ...

Environmental Scientist

Nevada, IA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Introduction Arcadis seeks a junior Environmental Scientist in Nevada to support field surveys ... Regularly demonstrate strong technical writing and communications skills to support client needs.

In this role, you will apply scientific expertise to solve complex manufacturing challenges, lead ... Strong technical writing, project management, and communication skills with the ability to lead ...

Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to work effectively in teams of ... Bachelor's degree in information systems, computer science, business analysis, business ...

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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.

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Support the transfer of new vaccine products from Research & Development into commercial manufacturing through scale-up, validation, registration, and commercialization activities.

  • Apply scientific expertise to troubleshoot complex vaccine manufacturing processes and identify root causes while implementing effective technical solutions.

  • Drive process optimization and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity, product quality, process robustness, and manufacturing efficiency.


Elanco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

At Elanco (NYSE: ELAN) - it all starts with animals!
As a global leader in animal health, we are dedicated to innovation and delivering products and services to prevent and treat disease in farm animals and pets. At Elanco, we are driven by our vision of Food and Companionship Enriching Life and our purpose - all to Go Beyond for Animals, Customers, Society and Our People.
At Elanco, we pride ourselves on fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. We believe that diversity is the driving force behind innovation, creativity, and overall business success. Here, you'll be part of a company that values and champions new ways of thinking, work with dynamic individuals, and acquire new skills and experiences that will propel your career to new heights.
Making animals' lives better makes life better - join our team today!
Your Role: Bio Process Research Scientist
As a Bio Process Research Scientist, you will be part of the Technical Services & Manufacturing Sciences (TS/MS) team supporting the commercialization, optimization, and lifecycle management of animal health vaccine manufacturing processes. In this role, you will apply scientific expertise to solve complex manufacturing challenges, lead technology transfer and process improvement initiatives, and partner with Research & Development and Manufacturing to advance innovative vaccine products from development through commercial production.
Your Responsibilities:
  • Lead or support the transfer of new vaccine products from Research & Development into commercial manufacturing through scale-up, validation, registration, and commercialization activities.
  • Apply scientific expertise to troubleshoot complex vaccine manufacturing processes and identify root causes while implementing effective technical solutions.
  • Drive process optimization and continuous improvement initiatives that improve productivity, product quality, process robustness, and manufacturing efficiency.
  • Lead technology transfer activities within your area of expertise to ensure successful implementation, robust process control, and on-time project execution.
  • Design, execute, and analyze experiments using Design of Experiments (DOE) methodologies, author technical documentation, and support manufacturing instructions and SAP material planning models.

What You Need to Succeed (Minimum Qualifications):
  • Education: Ph.D. in Microbiology, Virology, Biochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biology, or another relevant scientific discipline.
  • Experience: Minimum of 2-3 years of experience supporting vaccine, biologics, biotechnology, or pharmaceutical manufacturing processes, including commercialization or process development activities.
  • Top Skills: Strong scientific problem-solving and process optimization skills, combined with experience in large-scale viral and bacterial antigen manufacturing and cross-functional collaboration.

What Will Give You a Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications):
  • Experience supporting technology transfer, process validation, and commercialization of biological or vaccine products.
  • Knowledge of large-scale viral and bacterial antigen manufacturing processes.
  • Experience using Design of Experiments (DOE) and JMP® for statistical analysis and process optimization.
  • Familiarity with USDA regulatory requirements and regulated manufacturing environments.
  • Strong technical writing, project management, and communication skills with the ability to lead multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Elanco is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status
Elanco may use automated tools, including AI, to support parts of our recruitment process, such as reviewing applications against job-related criteria and/or transferrable skills. These tools help ensure a consistent, structured evaluation, but they do not make hiring decisions. All decisions involve a human reviewer. For more information on how we handle personal data, please see our Elanco Workforce Privacy Notice.

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