Senior Technical Writer-Editor
Summary
This role involves creating and editing complex written materials, such as articles and web pages, on scientific topics for the U.S. National Science Foundation. The Senior Technical Writer-Editor will translate scientific information into clear language, ensure compliance with federal standards, and mentor junior writers, using skills in technical writing, editing, and federal communication requi
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Position Overview
The Senior Technical Writer-Editor is responsible for creating, editing, and managing complex written products in support of the Office of Legislative and Public Affairs (OLPA) at the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). This role translates scientific and technical information into clear, accurate, and accessible content, including articles, white papers, fact sheets, policy summaries, and web pages. The Senior Technical Writer-Editor collaborates with OLPA staff, program officials, and scientists to research and fact-check content, mentors junior writers, and ensures all products meet federal plain language and accessibility standards.
Key Responsibilities
Write and edit articles, white papers, fact sheets, blogs, press releases, web pages, and other publications on science topics of stakeholder interest, including those addressing significant or potentially controversial topics.
Translate complex scientific and technical concepts into plain language for non-expert audiences.
Draft and edit web content summarizing policies and guidance for proposers and awardees.
Conduct research and fact-checking, collaborating with OLPA staff, program officials, and scientists to ensure accuracy and clarity of all written products.
Ensure all products comply with the "Plain Writing Act of 2010" and Section 508 accessibility standards.
Mentor junior writers and help define documentation standards and strategies.
Qualifications
General Requirements
Minimum 5 years of professional writing and editing experience, including at least 3 years' experience writing about scientific and technological subjects.
Experience writing for federal agencies, scientific funders, or research-focused organizations (preferred).
Experience writing both short- and long-format content, including press releases, fact sheets, blogs, reports and webpages.
Experience conducting research and fact-checking using written sources and direct interviews with subject-matter experts.
Degree in journalism, communications or a science-related field (preferred).
Ability to distill complex scientific and technical topics into clear, compelling language for diverse audiences.
Proficiency in AP Style, plain language writing, and editing for scientific accuracy.
Familiarity with federal communication requirements, including the "Plain Writing Act of 2010" and Section 508 compliance.
Knowledge of search engine optimization (SEO) and answer engine optimization (AEO) principles.
Candidates should be prepared to provide writing samples that demonstrate proficiency in the responsibilities above.
What We Offer
• Competitive annual salary (commensurate with experience).
• On-site role at NSF in Alexandria, VA.
As published by recruitee · 7 questions
Basics
Full name, Email, CV, Cover letter, Phone
Short answers (1)
- What is your minimum required annual salary?
Pick from a list (6)
- Are you a U.S. citizen?
- Can you work on-site at NSF in Alexandria, VA, Monday to Friday, if asked?
- Can you start around December 1, after background checks are completed?
- Do you have at least 5 years of experience in administrative coordination, project management, or a combination of both? optional
- Do you have at least 5 years of experience drafting office documents such as memos, internal and external correspondence, and policies? optional
- Are you familiar with the Plain Writing Act of 2010 and Section 508 accessibility requirements? optional