Science Writer for Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL)

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) invites candidates to apply for the position of science writer in the Communications Division to support the Nuclear Science and Engineering Directorate (NSED).

The writer will produce timely communications materials for NSED for distribution to the US Department of Energy (DOE) and both general and targeted audiences. Under minimal supervision, the candidate will develop complex scientific material into well-constructed, easy-to-read documents that

clearly and accurately present the research and scientific and technical advances of its scientists and programs to a diverse group of stakeholders including scientific peers, sponsors, stakeholders, and the public.

NSED addresses compelling challenges in nuclear science and technology that enable ORNL to respond to national priorities. NSED focuses on the following mission areas: (1) research and development (R&D) for both fission and fusion technologies; (2) advanced modeling and simulation; (3) stable and radioactive isotope R&D and production; and (4) research, development, and deployment of technologies to address nuclear security challenges globally.

Major Duties/Responsibilities

Understand and write about complex science- and technology-related topics and materials and work with senior scientists and managers to produce timely, interesting, and compelling science and technology articles that readily convey the importance of the work at ORNL to multiple audiences. To create such materials, the writer will interview subject-matter experts, perform background research, and work from often highly technical source material.
Write news releases, feature articles, science highlights, website content, promotional pieces, fact sheet content, and other materials that clearly and effectively communicate research findings, technical developments, key programming messages, and other news and information.
Organize information from various scientific and often highly technical sources, including interviews with subject matter experts, and produce written materials in concise language without loss of technical meaning and with meticulous attention to logic, consistency, and accuracy. Collaborate with technical editors to ensure adherence to grammar and style guidelines.
Collaborate with the NSED communications coordinator to maintain NSED’s social media presence by developing content and posting regular updates.
Collaborate with other staff in Communications and Creative Services to provide NSED with needed support and required products.
Suggest visual material in support of scientific and promotional information needs. Work with designers, illustrators, photographers, and video producers to develop attractive and high-visual-impact products.
Work with external media, including science and trade publications, on coverage of NSED.
Comply with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
Maintain a strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics.



Qualifications Required

A bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, English, or a science-related field.
A minimum of 2 years of experience producing communications products for general audiences.



Qualifications Preferred

Experience writing about nuclear science and engineering topics is strongly preferred.

Communications experience in a national laboratory setting or with DOE staff and experience coordinating social media for organizations are preferred. Technical training or a background in science is a plus.

The successful candidate must have strong scientific/technical reading, editing, and writing skills (will be expected to provide writing samples); experience writing about science and/or technology-related subjects for general audiences; excellent attention to detail; the ability to develop a good understanding of the scientific and technical areas addressed by NSED; the ability to understand, follow, and implement complex instructions; strong organizational skills, including the flexibility to simultaneously handle several assignments for multiple customers; excellent verbal and interpersonal communication skills; the ability to prioritize and meet deadlines; the ability to work—both independently and with all levels of researchers and staff—in a team-based environment; and skills in solving problems and developing and implementing solutions.

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy (DOE) security clearance.

Benefits at ORNL: UT-Battelle offers a quality benefits package, including a matching 401(k), contributory pension plan, paid vacation, and medical/dental plan options. Onsite amenities include a credit union, medical clinic, cafeteria, coffee stands, and fitness facilities.

Relocation: Moving can be overwhelming and expensive. UT-Battelle offers a generous relocation package to ease the transition process. Domestic and international relocation assistance is available for certain positions. If invited to interview, be sure to ask your Recruiter (Talent Acquisition Partner) for details.

For more information about our benefits, working here, and living here, visit the “About” tab at jobs.ornl.gov.

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.