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Scientific Writer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

EssentiallySimple.net

Science Writer

$150/hr

About you: * You're an expert in some scientific domain. That doesn't necessarily mean you have a ... You can write clearly about complex topics. This means you know the Jargon of the field, but can ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Scientific Writer information

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$11K

$70.5K

$79.5K

How much do scientific writer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for scientific writer in the United States is $70,499.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $74,000.00 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' salaries vary based on experience, education, and employment setting, but the median annual wage in the United States is around $70,000. Experienced writers or those working in specialized fields or for major organizations can earn over $100,000 annually, especially with strong writing skills and knowledge of scientific topics.

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 writing, or contributing to scientific publications can be beneficial, and familiarity with scientific tools like reference management software and data analysis is helpful.

What does a scientific writer do?

A scientific writer creates clear, accurate, and well-organized documents such as research papers, reports, and articles to communicate scientific information. They often work with researchers and use tools like reference management software, requiring strong writing, editing, and understanding of scientific concepts. Attention to detail and adherence to publication standards are essential in this role.

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.
More about Scientific Writer jobs
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Scientific Writer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Scientific Writer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,499 per year, or $33.9 per hour.

Science Writer

EssentiallySimple.net

Remote

$150/hr

Contractor

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Science Buzz is a pre-launch blog that's focused on making research in the physical sciences accessible to a general audience.
We're looking for contributors with subject matter expertise in Earth Science, Biology, Physics, Astronomy, and Chemistry (and their sub-disciplines) to produce high-quality posts on recent discoveries/research, as well as guides and outlining content for infographics.
About you:
* You're an expert in some scientific domain. That doesn't necessarily mean you have a Ph.D. or have worked in the field professionally; we're happy to hire passionate amateurs. It does mean that you're familiar with the leading academic journals in the subject and have the background knowledge to understand the significance of new research.
* You can write clearly about complex topics. This means you know the Jargon of the field, but can communicate what is essential without relying on it.
* You understand the elements of producing viral content and aren't averse to formulas when they work (e.g., listicles).
Pros of working with us:
* Get paid to learn and write about something you're genuinely interested in
* All work published under your byline
* Flexibility: we rarely have strict deadlines and are happy to work with people who aren't able to contribute regularly.
What we look for:
* Typical article length of 800 - 2,000 words. We're open to longer pieces but will typically solicit them from contributors who we've worked with previously.
* Coverage of a topic that hasn't been widely reported on other blogs or in the press.
* We want to cover research that has been published in the last year, though this is not a hard rule.
* Relevance: our goal is to make science engaging, the primary way to do that is by illustrating how it connects to the lives of our readers.
* A sense of humor or whimsy.
Rates: Our starting rate is $150 per published article. Ideally, we would like contributors who can write several articles per week but are open to working with talented writers who as well.
Note: Because of the volume of applications we receive, we aren't able to personally follow up with everyone, but we will be in touch within 48 hours if it seems like there's a good potential match.
If you have a specific story idea you would like to pitch: please include the working title, subject, and potential sources. While we will need to see a full draft before committing to publish a piece, you can pitch an idea get our impression of whether it's a fit for us.

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