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Scientific Writer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Writer

AI research scientist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$234K - $349K/yr

About the role AI research at WRITER isn't just about publishing papers - it's about building the scientific foundation that powers some of the most ambitious enterprise AI deployments in the world.

MKS2 Technologies

Technical Writer (onsite)

Monterey, CA

$65K - $78K/yr

Experience in technical or scientific writing . * Demonstrated ability to independently research, write, and edit materials such as white papers, fact sheets, multimedia content, web features, press ...

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$10.9K

$69.6K

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How much do scientific writer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for scientific writer in California is $69,576.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,100.00 and $73,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a scientific writer?

A science writer is a journalist who specializes in writing about scientific fields, with an emphasis on the emergence of research and advancements. Science writing is one of the most challenging forms of journalism because you must carefully translate scientific wording about discoveries into terms that the layman can understand while balancing conflicting views from major players in the field. Your responsibilities as a science writer are significant since it's important not to give misinformation to the masses about new research and discoveries. A science writer's day-to-day duties primarily revolve around research, interviews, and writing.

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

To thrive as a Scientific Writer, you need a solid background in science or a related field, excellent writing skills, and typically at least a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a scientific discipline. Familiarity with referencing software (like EndNote or Zotero), publication guidelines, and content management systems is often required. Outstanding attention to detail, the ability to translate complex concepts for different audiences, and strong time-management are standout soft skills. These skills ensure accurate, clear communication of scientific information, which is critical for advancing research and supporting organizational goals.

How does a scientific writer typically collaborate with researchers and subject matter experts during the manuscript preparation process?

Scientific Writers work closely with researchers and subject matter experts (SMEs) to ensure technical accuracy and clarity in manuscripts, grant proposals, or regulatory documents. This collaboration often involves interviewing SMEs to clarify complex concepts, reviewing drafts together, and incorporating feedback to meet publication standards. Effective communication and project management skills are essential, as writers must balance scientific rigor with readability, adhere to deadlines, and coordinate input from multiple stakeholders throughout the writing and revision process.

How much do scientific writers get paid?

Scientific writers typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and the complexity of the subject matter. Entry-level positions may start around $50,000, while experienced professionals or those working in specialized fields can earn higher salaries, especially with advanced degrees and strong writing skills.

What is a scientific writer's job?

A scientific writer creates clear, accurate, and well-organized documents such as research papers, reports, and articles to communicate scientific information effectively. They often work with researchers and use specialized tools like reference management software, requiring strong writing, editing, and understanding of scientific concepts. The role may involve adhering to publication standards and deadlines in a research or academic environment.

What is the difference between Scientific Writer vs Medical Writer?

AspectScientific WriterMedical Writer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in science or related fieldOften requires a degree in life sciences, healthcare, or related fields; certifications like AMWA or EMWA are common
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, academia, scientific publishingPharmaceutical companies, healthcare organizations, regulatory agencies
Industry UsageUsed across scientific disciplines for research papers, grant proposalsFocused on clinical, regulatory, and medical communication

Scientific Writers and Medical Writers share similar backgrounds in science and often work in related environments. However, Medical Writers specialize in translating complex medical and clinical data for regulatory submissions, medical education, and healthcare audiences, whereas Scientific Writers focus more broadly on scientific research and publications.

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Scientific Writer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Scientific Writer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,576 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

Scientific Writer II, Preclinical Research

Pharmaron

Carlsbad, CA • On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Position: Scientific Writer II, Preclinical Research
Pay Range: $60k - $75k
Location: Carlsbad, CA (On-site)
About Pharmaron
Pharmaron is a global contract research and manufacturing organization (CRO/CDMO) helping pharma and biotech companies bring new therapies to life. With over 25,000 employees worldwide across 28 locations in the US, UK, China, and Singapore, we support drug discovery through to manufacturing with fully integrated high-quality services.
We're proud of the impact we make and just last year, we supported 887 discovery projects, 1,100+ CMC programs, and 1,397 clinical trials across all phases. Our teams are involved in everything from small molecules, ADC's, biologics, and gene therapies and we work with more than 3,300 global customers. To learn more, visit .
What You'll Do
Join Pharmaron's Preclinical Research team as a Scientific Writer II, where you'll play a critical role in preparing high-quality nonclinical study protocols, reports, and scientific documentation supporting pharmaceutical and medical device research. Working closely with Study Directors and multidisciplinary scientific teams, you'll translate complex preclinical study data into clear, accurate, and GLP-compliant documentation that supports the successful execution and reporting of nonclinical studies.
The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented scientific writer with experience supporting preclinical research who enjoys transforming complex scientific findings into well-organized, regulatory-compliant reports. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to a diverse portfolio of nonclinical studies while working in a collaborative, fast-paced CRO environment.
Key Responsibilities
  • Partner with multidisciplinary scientific teams to develop, review, and finalize nonclinical study protocols, reports, and scientific documentation supporting pharmaceutical and medical device development.
  • Translate complex scientific data into clear, concise, and scientifically accurate protocols, study reports, summaries, and regulatory documentation.
  • Prepare publication-quality tables, figures, graphs, and data visualizations that effectively communicate study results and scientific conclusions.
  • Provide scientific writing guidance, editorial support, and standardized language to ensure clarity, consistency, and scientific accuracy across all documentation.
  • Ensure documentation complies with GLP regulations, sponsor requirements, company standards, and applicable regulatory guidelines.
  • Collaborate with Study Directors, scientists, Quality Assurance, and cross-functional teams to ensure timely completion of study documentation.
  • Assist in the development and maintenance of protocol, report, and template libraries within Provantis.
  • Generate statistical tables and apply appropriate reporting tools using Provantis.
  • Contribute to continuous process improvement through the development and revision of SOPs, templates, and scientific writing best practices.
  • Mentor and provide technical guidance to Assistant Scientific Writers and Scientific Writer I team members.
  • Manage multiple writing projects simultaneously while meeting established study timelines.

What We're Looking For
  • Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. degree in Life Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacology, Toxicology, Biology, or a related scientific discipline.
  • Bachelor's degree with 3+ years, Master's degree with 2+ years, or Ph.D. with relevant industry experience in scientific writing, preclinical research, or a related scientific field.
  • Experience authoring or reviewing nonclinical protocols, study reports, or regulatory documentation within a CRO, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or medical device environment.
  • Strong understanding of preclinical drug development, GLP studies, and scientific documentation supporting pharmaceutical or medical device programs.
  • Experience working in a GLP-regulated environment is strongly preferred.
  • Experience using Provantis or similar electronic data management and reporting systems is preferred.
  • Exceptional scientific writing, technical editing, and document review skills with meticulous attention to detail.
  • Demonstrated ability to interpret complex scientific data and communicate findings clearly and accurately.

Why Pharmaron?
Pharmaron is a premier service provider for the life sciences industry. Founded in 2004, Pharmaron has invested in its people and facilities and established a broad spectrum of research, development, and manufacturing service capabilities throughout the entire drug discovery, preclinical, and clinical development process across multiple therapeutic modalities, including small molecules, biologics, and CGT products. With over 25,000 employees and operations in the US, UK, China, and Singapore. Pharmaron has an excellent track record in delivering R&D solutions to its partners in North America, Europe, Japan, and China.
Collaborative Culture: You will thrive in our inclusive and collaborative environment, where teamwork and innovation go hand in hand. Here, your voice matters, and your contributions make a real impact. "Employees Number One" and "Clients Centered" are the core cultural values at Pharmaron. Our culture, which sets Pharmaron apart from other organizations, has evolved from our deep commitment to our employees, partners, and collaborators.
Benefits: As part of our commitment to your well-being, we offer a comprehensive benefits package:
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance with significant employer contributions
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with generous employer matching
  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO), Paid Sick Leave & Company Holidays to support work-life balance
  • Employer-funded Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions (for eligible plans), plus Healthcare & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • 100% Employer-paid Employee Life Insurance, AD&D, Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP), mental health resources, and wellness programs
  • Family-friendly benefits, including fertility support and maternity resources
  • Professional development and career growth opportunities within a leading global CRO/CDMO

How to Apply:
Ready to seize this incredible opportunity? Join us at Pharmaron and be part of a dynamic team driving innovation and excellence in biopharmaceutical research and development. Apply online today!
As an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer, Pharmaron values diversity and inclusion in the workplace, fostering an environment where all individuals are empowered to succeed. Join us in our mission to make a difference in the world of life sciences.
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