AP Stylebook, Analysis Skills, Audiovisual, Blog, Communication Skills, Content Development, Editing, Establish Priorities, Fact Checking, Federal Contracts, Government, Interviewing Skills, NSF Audio Formats, Online Publications, Press Releases, Problem Solving Skills, Public Affairs, Public/Media/Press/Analyst Relations, Research Skills, Scientific Publications, Scripting (Scripting Languages), Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Section 508, Team Player, Time Management, White Papers, Work From Home, Writing Skills
Washington, Washington, DC
Artemis is seeking a full-time Internal Writer with demonstrated experience supporting a large-scale federal communications contract. The Internal Writer supports the government by writing and editing clear, accurate and accessible content on federal programs, initiatives, policies, guidance and research findings. The role develops articles, white papers, fact sheets, blogs, press releases, web pages, publications and scripts for internal and external audiences, translating complex scientific and technical concepts into plain language.
This role requires a self-starter, proactive problem solver and action-oriented team player with professional writing and editing experience in scientific and technological subjects. This position needs an individual who can conduct research and factchecking, collaborate with government staff, program officials and scientists, write for varied audiences and channels, and ensure content meets plain language, AP Style, scientific accuracy and Section 508 accessibility requirements.
This is a contingent hire position. Offers will be contingent upon client approval, ability to meet security requirements, and the ability to adhere to any on-site requirements (which may change at contract award).
Remote work is anticipated. However, all candidates should be local to the Washington, DC metro area as on-site work may be required.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Write and edit articles, white papers, fact sheets, blogs, press releases, web pages and other publications on science topics of stakeholder interest.
- Develop content addressing significant or potentially controversial topics with accuracy, clarity and appropriate tone.
- 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 factchecking using written sources and direct interviews with subject matter experts, program officials, and scientists.
- Collaborate with government staff, program officials and scientists to ensure accuracy, clarity and consistency of written products.
- Develop scripts for audio and video content that clearly explain complex science-based programs, initiatives, and research findings.
- Adapt scripts and written content for multiple audiences and channels, including students, the public, researchers, industry, government staff, and government officials.
- Apply AP Style, plain language writing practices, and editing for scientific accuracy.
- Apply search engine optimization and answer engine optimization principles where appropriate for digital content.
- Ensure all products comply with the Plain Writing Act of 2010 and Section 508 accessibility standards.
- Participate in special projects and perform other related writing and editing duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
- 2 years of professional writing and editing experience; demonstrated experience writing about scientific and technological subjects preferred.
- Bachelor’s degree in communications, writing, public relations, or related fields.
- 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.
- 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 and answer engine optimization principles.
- Ability to manage competing deadlines and work collaboratively with communications and program stakeholders.
Desired Qualifications:
- Strong critical thinking, analytical and time management skills.
- Proven ability to organize, prioritize and work well with others.
- Ability to communicate thoughts, ideas and solutions logically both written and orally.
- Ability to stay calm under pressure and in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to receive feedback from clients and implement changes quickly and effectively.
- Ability to get up to speed quickly on complex issues.
- Desire to work in a fast-paced, rapidly evolving environment.
Client Information:
The National Science Foundation Office of Legislative and Public Affairs (OLPA) requires contractor support to provide writing and editing services for the agency. This role supports OLPA communications by translating complex NSF programs, initiatives and research findings into clear, accurate and accessible content for internal and external audiences.