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Scientific Writer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Peraton

Technical Writer

Herndon, VA

$66K - $106K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Information Systems ... Technical writing or documentation experience supporting IT, software, cybersecurity, or DoD ...

CACI International, Inc.

Technical Writer

Washington, DC · On-site

$155K/yr

Technical Writer Job Category: Engineering and Technical Support Time Type: Full time Minimum ... Explain scientific and technical ideas in simple language. * Work with customers to translate their ...

TRI Challenge Convention

Medical Writer

Bethesda, MD · Hybrid

Prepares scientific and regulatory documents on behalf of government and private sector clients for ... Superior writing skills that require moderate to minimal editing. Knowledge of regulatory ...

Barrow Wise Consulting

Technical Writer

MD · On-site

$74K - $110K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in English, Literature, Computer Science, Information Systems, Business or other related discipline. * Five years of specialized experience in technical writing for DoD. Barrow Wise ...

Ask IT consulting

Technical Writer

Washington, DC

Bachelor's degree with an emphasis in Technical Writing, English, Computer Science, and/or Business. * 5-10 plus years of experience in Federal Procurement and knowledge of the Federal Acquisition ...

The Atlantic

Staff Writer

Washington, DC

This writer will cover the media, and should have a keen interest in how the fourth estate operates ... science, and culture. As the third-longest-running magazine in America, we find ourselves at a ...

National Guard Employment Network

Writer

Arlington, VA · On-site

The Writer position is responsible for developing creative and technical content, along with social content, for a government organization. In this role, you will be working with a communications ...

MSCCN

Writer

Loudoun, VA · On-site

The Writer position is responsible for developing creative and technical content, along with social content, for a government organization. In this role, you will be working with a communications ...

Forterra

Proposal Writer

Arlington, VA · On-site

This is an ideal role for a strong writer who understands how to translate complex technical ... Bachelor's degree in English, Communications, Journalism, Business, Political Science, Marketing ...

CGI Inc.

Technical Writer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Technical Writing, English, Communications, Computer Science, or a related field. . 3-5 years of experience as a Technical Writer, preferably in the technology or software ...

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All JobsScientific Writer JobsScientific Writer Jobs in Reston, VA

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:
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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
Technical Writer

Technical Writer

Peraton

Herndon, VA

$66K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Peraton rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

47th of 207 rated it services

Job description

Responsibilities

We are seeking a highly skilled and innovative Technical Writer to join our team in the greater DMV area, supporting the Army National Guard.

Key Responsibilities

  • Produce and update: Configuration Settings Documents, release notes, user manuals, admin guides, SOPs, checklists, maintenance procedures, change/release documentation, and engineering drawings.
  • Maintain structured, versioncontrolled knowledge repositories and libraries (course materials, job aids, user guides, training manuals).
  • Review technical content for accuracy, clarity, completeness, and compliance; provide redlines and editorial guidance.
  • Capture gaps in existing documentation and develop/update content during transition and steadystate operations.
  • Coordinate with PMO, engineers, cybersecurity, developers, and trainers to validate content and incorporate technical changes.
  • Apply documentation standards and templates; enforce metadata, taxonomy, and versioning policies.
  • Support documentation for audits, RMF evidence, training deliveries, and program decision artifacts.
  • Provide writing, editing, and publishing support for classified and unclassified content per policy.

#ENOCS

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

  • 2 years with BS/BA; 0 years with MS/MA; 6 years with no degree
  • Clearance: TS/SCI (active)
  • Education / Training / Certification: Candidate must meet ONE:
    • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Information Systems, Information Technology, or Software Engineering; OR
    • Relevant DoD/Military training (e.g., K2G7010; Knowledge Manager (Intermediate) Playlist); OR
    • Relevant certification (e.g., Security+, SSCP).
  • Experience: Technical writing or documentation experience supporting IT, software, cybersecurity, or DoD programs.
  • Skills: Strong technical writing/editing, version control and repository management (SharePoint/Confluence/Git), familiarity with Army/DoD documentation standards, ability to translate technical content for varied audiences, and strong stakeholder coordination.

Desired / Preferred

  • Prior DoD/Army/ARNG or classified program documentation experience
  • Experience with schema/taxonomy, metadata application, and documentation automation/tooling (Markdown, DITA, MadCap, RoboHelp)
  • Familiarity with RMF/RMF evidence packaging and audit support

#ENOCS

Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary Range$66,000 - $106,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.EEOEEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.Employment Type: FULL_TIME

What Peraton employees say

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017

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