Job Description

Job Title: Internal Writer Location

Alexandria, VA (Primarily On-Site at NSF Headquarters; Limited Telework with Approval)

Position Type

Full-Time | Federal Government Contract Support

Project Summary

The Internal Writer supports NSF's internal communications by developing content for staff, leadership messaging, and agency-wide announcements. This role translates complex scientific and technical topics into clear, engaging language tailored to internal audiences, ensuring consistency, clarity, and accessibility.

Role Summary

The Internal Writer produces high-quality internal communications content, including articles, web pages, fact sheets, blogs, and other publications. The role ensures that all materials comply with the Plain Writing Act of 2010 , Section 508 accessibility standards, and NSF branding guidelines.

Primary Responsibilities

• Write and edit articles, white papers, fact sheets, blogs, press releases, web pages, and other publications on science topics of staff and stakeholder interest, including potentially sensitive or controversial topics.
• Translate complex scientific and technical concepts into plain language for non-expert internal audiences.
• Draft and edit web content summarizing policies and guidance for NSF staff and awardees.
• Conduct research and fact-checking by collaborating with OLPA staff, program officials, and scientists to ensure accuracy and clarity.
• Ensure all written products comply with federal plain-language and accessibility standards.
• Submit two writing samples demonstrating ability to communicate scientific content effectively to internal audiences.

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of professional writing and editing experience, including at least 3 years writing about scientific or technological subjects.
• Experience writing for federal agencies, scientific funders, or research-focused organizations (preferred).
• Experience producing both short- and long-format content, including press releases, fact sheets, blogs, reports, and web pages.
• Experience conducting research and fact-checking using written sources and SME interviews.
• Degree in journalism, communications, or a science-related field (preferred).
• Ability to distill complex scientific and technical topics into clear, compelling language for diverse internal 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 SEO and answer-engine optimization (AEO) principles.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting federal or research-focused organizations' internal communications.
• Familiarity with NSF programs, policies, and internal communications channels.
• Ability to balance scientific accuracy with accessibility and readability for diverse staff audiences.

Professional Attributes

• Exceptional writing, storytelling, and editorial judgment.
• Strong research, analytical, and fact-checking skills.
• Ability to manage multiple high-priority projects under tight deadlines.
• Collaborative team player comfortable working with scientists, program officials, and leadership.

Job Tags

Full time, Contract work, Remote work,

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