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Scientific Writer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Guidehouse

Scientific Writer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$57K - $85K/yr

We are looking for a Scientific Writer to support executive communications, scientific and technical writing, knowledge management, and leadership engagement activities for the National Library of ...

Guidehouse

Scientific Writer

Bethesda, MD · On-site +1

$57K - $85K/yr

We are looking for a Scientific Writer to support executive communications, scientific and technical writing, knowledge management, and leadership engagement activities for the National Library of ...

RJIT Solutions

SCIENTIFIC TECHNICAL WRITER

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Scientific Writer National Institutes of Health / National Library of Medicine (NLM) RJIT Solutions is an information technology and bioscience company that specializes in providing innovative ...

New

Guidehouse

Science Writer

Bethesda, MD · Hybrid

$85K - $141K/yr

Develop scientific and technical materials regarding research programs and activities as well as ... Excellent oral and written communication skills. * Experience with developing policies and ...

Guidehouse

Science Writer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$85K - $141K/yr

Develop scientific and technical materials regarding research programs and activities as well as ... Excellent oral and written communication skills. * Experience with developing policies and ...

BLN24

Scientific Technical Writer/Editor

Mclean, VA · On-site

Job Title: Scientific Technical Writer/Editor Position Overview: BLN24 has an exciting opportunity for a Scientific Technical Writer/Editor to support the National Oceanic and Atmospheric ...

BLN24

Scientific Technical Writer/Editor

Mclean, VA · On-site

BLN24 has an exciting opportunity for a Scientific Technical Writer/Editor to support the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. (NOAA). Serving as a trusted scientific communications and ...

Inotivco

Report Writer II, Temporary

Rockville, MD

$35/hr

The Report Writer is responsible for preparing accurate, high-quality scientific reports for genetic toxicology studies in compliance with GLP regulations, company protocols and SOPs, and client ...

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All JobsScientific Writer JobsScientific Writer Jobs in Washington

Scientific Writer information

See Washington salary details

$12.5K

$79.8K

$90K

How much do scientific writer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for scientific writer in Washington is $79,848.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,900.00 and $83,800.00 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.

More about Scientific Writer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Scientific Writer jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Scientific Writer jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Scientific Writer jobs in Washington? For Scientific Writer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Scientific Writer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Scientific Writer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Scientific Writer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Scientific Writer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Scientific Writer jobs in WA? For Scientific Writer jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Scientific Writer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Scientific Writer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,848 per year, or $38.4 per hour.

Scientific Writer

Kelly Science, Engineering, Technology & Telecom

Bethesda, MD • On-site

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Kelly Government Solutions is a strategic supplier and business partner to the federal government and its key suppliers. Through our partnership with the National Institutes of Health, Kelly Government Solutions offers administrative, IT, engineering, scientific, and healthcare professionals the opportunity to work with the leading medical research center in the world. We are seeking an experienced individual to work as a Scientific Writer at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, MD.


The Scientific Writer provides support to fulfill the operational objectives of the National Library of Medicine.


Schedule:

Full-Time, Monday-Friday


Key Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Research, write and edit technical reports of original research specifications, findings and conclusions for submission to administrative, legislative and regulatory review.
  • Assess proposed and ongoing programs, projects and studies and conduct literature reviews to support researchers and study staff inform, guide, validate, refute, etc. findings and conclusions.
  • Draft communications and engagement plans and supplemental materials such as executive-level emails, talking points, briefing materials, reports, directives, and NLM news items- ensuring visual outputs are effective as appropriate.
  • Develop presentations, scripts, speaker notes, remarks, talking points, QA documents, briefing books, and presentation support materials for NLM leadership, ensuring outputs are visually effective as appropriate.
  • Prepares training materials and job aids for distribution among research and operational staff to assist in their day to day writing and editing activities to increase the quality and consistency of scientific and technical writing.


Qualifications:

  • Master's Degree
  • Minimum 5 years of relevant experience
  • Experience with Microsoft Suite


PLEASE APPLY ONLINE

When you apply, please know a Kelly Government Solutions Recruiter will review your resume and will contact you directly, if your skills and experience match the requirements of this position; a full job description can be made available at that time.


Due to the high volume of inquiries, we regret that we cannot accept phone calls. Even if you aren’t contacted for this position, you are still part of our talent network. All Kelly recruiters have access to your profile, which expands your opportunities even further.


As a specialty talent company, Kelly is committed to doing the right thing for our talent and clients.


We stand up for equity, inclusion, fair treatment, and opportunity for all as these build the foundation of our Talent Promise. With a focus on safety, value, well-being, investment, and opportunity, Kelly’s Talent Promise confirms our commitment to those in search of a better way to work and live and to help discover what’s next.


You should know: Vaccination against COVID-19 is a requirement for all job opportunities offered through Kelly Government Solutions, in accordance with the Executive Order on Ensuring Adequate COVID Safety Protocols for Federal Contractors.


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