Senior Technical Writer-Editor

About the role

The Senior Technical Writer-Editor creates, edits and manages complex written products for the Office of Legislative and Public Affairs (OLPA) at the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). The role turns scientific and technical information into clear, accurate and accessible content such as articles, white papers, fact sheets, policy summaries and web pages. It is an on-site position in Alexandria, Virginia.

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 significant or potentially controversial ones.
• 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.
• Research and fact-check content with OLPA staff, program officials and scientists.
• 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.

Required profile

• At least 5 years of professional writing and editing experience, including at least 3 years on scientific and technological subjects.
• Preferred: experience writing for federal agencies, scientific funders or research-focused organizations.
• Preferred: degree in journalism, communications or a science-related field.
• Ability to simplify complex scientific and technical topics for diverse audiences.
• Writing samples demonstrating the required work are expected.

Required skills

• AP Style, plain language writing and scientific editing.
• Familiarity with the Plain Writing Act of 2010 and Section 508.
• Knowledge of SEO and answer engine optimization (AEO).

What we offer

• Competitive annual salary commensurate with experience.
• On-site role at NSF in Alexandria, VA.