Science Writer and Editor

This position is contingent upon contract award.

@Orchard LLC is seeking a Science Writer and Editor to support NOAA's Office of Ocean Exploration. This role is not guaranteed — it depends on @Orchard winning the pending federal contract it is bidding for.

About @Orchard

@Orchard is a growing Woman-Owned Small Business and federal prime contractor delivering mission-critical science, data, technology, program management, and workforce solutions. Since 2010, @Orchard has built high-performing teams and disciplined delivery systems that help federal agencies launch complex programs, sustain performance, and achieve meaningful mission outcomes.

Position Summary

The Science Writer and Editor develops, edits, and communicates high-quality scientific and technical content supporting NOAA Ocean Exploration programs. Working closely with scientists, engineers, expedition teams, and federal program managers, this position transforms complex scientific concepts into clear, accurate, and engaging products for technical, executive, and public audiences.

The successful candidate will support scientific publications, expedition communications, program documentation, website content, presentations, briefing materials, and strategic communications.

Mission Impact

This position helps communicate NOAA Ocean Exploration's scientific discoveries by transforming complex technical information into accessible, accurate, and compelling products that support scientific collaboration, informed decision-making, and public engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, edit, and review scientific and technical documents.
• Translate complex scientific concepts for technical, executive, and public audiences.
• Collaborate with scientists and engineers to ensure scientific accuracy.
• Edit reports, manuscripts, publications, and briefing materials.
• Develop website and digital communication content.
• Support multimedia communications and outreach.
• Prepare executive briefings and strategic reports.
• Coordinate communications supporting scientific expeditions.
• Maintain document libraries and version control.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, English, Marine Science, Environmental Science, Biology, or related field. Advanced degree in a related scientific discipline is a strong preference.
• Experience writing and editing scientific or technical content.
• Excellent technical writing, editing, and proofreading skills.
• Experience supporting NOAA or other federal science organizations.
• Experience editing scientific publications or peer-reviewed manuscripts.
• Ability to communicate complex scientific concepts clearly.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365, Google Workspace, and Adobe Acrobat.
• Occasional domestic travel may be required to support scientific meetings, workshops, planning sessions, training activities, or other program requirements consistent with contract needs.
• Experience supporting marine science or ocean exploration programs is preferred.
• Experience with web content management systems is preferred.

Technical Skills

• Scientific Writing and Editing.
• Science Communication.
• Technical Editing.
• Website Content Management.
• Executive Briefings.
• Microsoft Office 365.
• Google Workspace.
• Adobe Acrobat.
• Microsoft Teams and SharePoint.

Compensation

The anticipated salary range for this position depends on the candidate's qualifications and relevant science writing experience.

What We Offer

Competitive base salary with opportunities for advancement, career growth and professional development, work-life balance, comprehensive benefits including health, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k), generous PTO, and paid federal holidays.

@Orchard is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply, regardless of race, gender, age, disability, or other protected characteristics.