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Scientific Writer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

BLN24

Scientific Technical Writer/Editor

Mclean, VA · On-site

BLN24 is a rapidly growing company located in the Washington DC Metro Area, seeking a Scientific Technical Writer/Editor to support the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The ...

Artemis Arc

Internal Writer

Washington, DC · On-site +1

The Internal Writer supports the government by writing and editing clear, accurate and accessible ... Translate complex scientific and technical concepts into plain language for non-expert audiences.

Artemis Arc

Internal Writer

Washington, DC · On-site

The Internal Writer supports the government by writing and editing clear, accurate and accessible ... Translate complex scientific and technical concepts into plain language for non-expert audiences.

Artemis Arc

Internal Writer

Washington, DC · On-site +1

The Internal Writer supports the government by writing and editing clear, accurate and accessible ... Translate complex scientific and technical concepts into plain language for non-expert audiences.

Oran Inc

Technical Writer

Herndon, VA

Develop technical, scientific, and regulatory documentation. * Create SOPs, process guides ... Technical Writing * Information Systems * Life Sciences * Related field * Minimum 5 years of ...

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Scientific Writer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$11.4K

$73.3K

$82.7K

How much do scientific writer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for scientific writer in Reston, VA is $73,345.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,700.00 and $77,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Scientific Writer?

A Scientific Writer is a professional who creates, edits, and prepares scientific documents such as research papers, grant proposals, review articles, and technical reports. They translate complex scientific data into clear, accurate, and accessible language for a variety of audiences, including researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and the general public. Scientific Writers often collaborate with scientists and researchers to ensure the content is accurate and meets publication or regulatory standards.

What Is a Science 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 much money do science writers make?

Science writers typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, education, and the employer. Freelance science writers may have variable income based on project volume and rates, often ranging from $0.50 to $2.00 per word or more. Advanced skills in scientific research, editing, and familiarity with publishing tools can influence earning potential.

How can I become a scientific writer?

To become a scientific writer, you typically need a strong background in a scientific discipline, often a bachelor's degree or higher, along with excellent writing and communication skills. Gaining experience through internships, freelance projects, or contributing to scientific publications can be beneficial, and familiarity with scientific tools like reference management software and data visualization is helpful.

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.

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.

How much does a scientific writer get paid?

The average salary for a scientific writer varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start around $50,000, while experienced writers with specialized knowledge can earn over $120,000. Many scientific writers work in research institutions, publishing, or biotech companies, often requiring strong writing skills and familiarity with scientific tools and standards.

What are the careers in scientific writing?

Careers in scientific writing include roles such as scientific writer, medical writer, technical writer, and research communicator. These professionals create research articles, technical documentation, regulatory submissions, and educational materials, often requiring strong writing skills, subject matter expertise, and familiarity with scientific tools and standards.
More about Scientific Writer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Scientific Writer jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Scientific Writer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Scientific Writer jobs in Reston, VA? For Scientific Writer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Scientific Writer jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Scientific Writer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Scientific Writer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Scientific Writer job openings:
Scientific Writer jobs near you

Science Writer

Guidehouse

Bethesda, MD • On-site

$85K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago

Guidehouse rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 58 rated business consultants

Job description

Job Family:
Technical Documentation & Writers
Travel Required:
None
Clearance Required:
Ability to Obtain Public Trust
We are seeking a Science Writer to support the National Institutes of Health (NIH) by developing scientific, technical, and policy documentation. The role involves translating complex research into clear, audience-appropriate materials and supporting recommendation memoranda, briefing documents, and Title 42 personnel actions in collaboration with scientific and administrative leadership. This is a full-time, hybrid opportunity in Bethesda, MD.
What You Will Do:
  • Provide support based on an in-depth knowledge of the subject matter, write, and edit recommendation memos and other justification documents for scientific positions.
  • Produce work products articulate, interpret, and explain complex research findings using plain language. The products are typically intended for viewing by general audiences, both scientific and administrative.
  • Assist and collaborate with NIH scientific and administrative leadership on policy interpretation and implementation.
  • Provide work products and documents related to providing recommendations guidance on Title 42 and policies, procedures, and requirements at meetings with senior level and program level managers, and via telephone and email.
  • Provide coverage of case work for Case Development Specialists as needed, such as supporting personnel packages.
  • Prepare a wide variety of briefing materials and complex scientific summaries on a broad range of diseases and research areas.
  • Develop specialized materials such as reports and memos covering highly complex subject matter areas for various purposes and audiences.
  • Provide advice and conduct reviews for accuracy of multiple materials prepared by other division staff.
  • Develop scientific and technical materials regarding research programs and activities as well as scientific accomplishments.
  • Provide support to committee management teams as needed.
  • Perform business analysis of personnel action tracking tools and determine next steps.
  • Identify tools/software to improve operations.
  • Draft and review award nominations and related documents.
  • Draft and review salary benchmarks in support of T42, T38 and SBRS appointments, conversions, and pay adjustments and related documents.
  • Review Livelink workflows to provide quality assurance for appointments, conversions, and pay adjustments.
  • Perform additional project work or duties at the request of task leader.
  • Complete training required by NIH.
  • This position is eligible for onsite, telework, or local remote status within commuting distance of either of the two duty locations with approval from the task leader.

What You Will Need:
  • Master's Degree or higher in a biomedical research field.
  • Minimum four (4) years of writing experience.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Experience with developing policies and guidelines pertaining.
  • Understanding of various pay models is a plus (T42, T5, T38).
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Federal or DoD "public trust"; candidates must obtain approved adjudication of their public trust prior to onboarding with Guidehouse. Candidates with an active public trust or suitability are preferred

What Would Be Nice To Have:
  • PhD preferred
  • Experience working at the NIH

The annual salary range for this position is $85,000.00-$141,000.00. Compensation decisions depend on a wide range of factors, including but not limited to skill sets, experience and training, security clearances, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs.
What We Offer:
Guidehouse offers a comprehensive, total rewards package that includes competitive compensation and a flexible benefits package that reflects our commitment to creating a diverse and supportive workplace.
Benefits include:
  • Medical, Rx, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Personal and Family Sick Time & Company Paid Holidays
  • Parental Leave
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Group Term Life and Travel Assistance
  • Voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance
  • Health Savings Account, Health Care & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Transit and Parking Commuter Benefits
  • Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Tuition Reimbursement, Personal Development, Certifications & Learning Opportunities
  • Employee Referral Program
  • Corporate Sponsored Events & Community Outreach
  • Care.com annual membership
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Supplemental Benefits via Corestream (Critical Care, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, Legal Assistance and ID theft protection, etc.)
  • Position may be eligible for a discretionary variable incentive bonus

About Guidehouse
Guidehouse is an Equal Opportunity Employer-Protected Veterans, Individuals with Disabilities or any other basis protected by law, ordinance, or regulation.
Guidehouse will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law or ordinance including the Fair Chance Ordinance of Los Angeles and San Francisco.
If you have visited our website for information about employment opportunities, or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation, please contact Guidehouse Recruiting at 1-571-633-1711 or via email at RecruitingAccommodation@guidehouse.com. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodation.
All communication regarding recruitment for a Guidehouse position will be sent from Guidehouse email domains including @guidehouse.com or guidehouse@myworkday.com. Correspondence received by an applicant from any other domain should be considered unauthorized and will not be honored by Guidehouse. Note that Guidehouse will never charge a fee or require a money transfer at any stage of the recruitment process and does not collect fees from educational institutions for participation in a recruitment event. Never provide your banking information to a third party purporting to need that information to proceed in the hiring process.
If any person or organization demands money related to a job opportunity with Guidehouse, please report the matter to Guidehouse's Ethics Hotline. If you want to check the validity of correspondence you have received, please contact recruiting@guidehouse.com. Guidehouse is not responsible for losses incurred (monetary or otherwise) from an applicant's dealings with unauthorized third parties.
Guidehouse does not accept unsolicited resumes through or from search firms or staffing agencies. All unsolicited resumes will be considered the property of Guidehouse and Guidehouse will not be obligated to pay a placement fee.

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