Science Writer and Communications Specialist
Oak Ridge National Laboratory
- Oak Ridge, TN
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Understand and communicate about complex science- and technology-related topics and work with senior scientists and managers to produce timely, interesting, and compelling science and technology content that conveys the importance and excitement of the work at ORNL.
- Write feature articles, science highlights, news releases, website and newsletter content, and other materials that align with communications strategic plans while clearly and effectively communicating research findings, technical developments, and key programmatic messages.
- Interact with scientific staff to identify and track upcoming results and accomplishments that can be made into compelling content.
- Organize and analyze information from various scientific and often highly technical sources, including interviews with subject matter experts and review of published scientific papers, to produce communications materials in concise and approachable language without loss of technical meaning.
- Support the ESTD communications team in developing social media and website content.
- Collaborate with the ESTD communications coordinator and other team members, as well as Communications Division and Creative Services staff members, to provide ESTD with needed support.
- Suggest visual material in support of scientific and promotional information needs; work with graphic designers, photographers, and videographers to develop attractive and high-impact visual products.
- Proactively work with external media, including science and trade publications, to secure coverage of ESTD.
- Comply with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
- Maintain a strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics.
- Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility by fostering a respectful workplace - in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.
- A BS in communications, journalism, public relations, marketing, English, a science, or other related field.
- A minimum of 2 years of experience producing communications products on science- and/or technology-related subjects for diverse audiences.
- The ideal candidate will have the ability to dive into the minutiae of scientific progress while maintaining awareness of high-level strategic objectives.
- Demonstrated ability to work on multiple projects under tight deadline pressure.
- Communications experience in a national laboratory setting or other large research institution, including academia and industry, is preferred.
- Experience working with and developing strategic communications plans is beneficial.
- The successful candidate should have excellent scientific/technical reading, writing, and editing skills (will be expected to provide writing samples).
- The ability to work with scientists and engineers to build expertise and earn trusted collaborator status is necessary.
- The candidate should be able to manage communications projects from concept to completion in collaboration with other team members and create content that aligns with existing communications strategic objectives.
- The successful candidate should have excellent attention to detail; the ability to understand, follow, and implement complex instructions; strong organizational skills; and excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
- The candidate should possess strong skills in solving problems; developing and implementing solutions; prioritizing and meeting deadlines; and working-both independently (under minimal supervision) and with all levels of researchers and staff-in a team-based collaborative environment.