Science Writer

This is a one (1) year 25% Limited appointment position. This appointment may be extended or converted to career status based on the needs and funding of the department.

The full-time equivalent (100%) salary range for this position is $71,600 - $91,872 annually. This position is currently funded at 25% time (approximately 10 hours per week). The salary will be prorated accordingly, resulting in an annual salary range of approximately $17,900 - $22,968 based on qualifications and experience. This is a fully remote position.

For a complete application, please provide three writing samples of features or news stories with a minimum word count of 750 words via a hyperlink in a cover letter.

Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego is one of the most important centers for global earth science research and education in the world. Scripps scientists work to understand and protect the planet by investigating our oceans, Earth, and atmosphere to find solutions to our greatest environmental challenges. Scripps leads research in climate change impacts and adaptation, resilience to hazards, conservation and biodiversity, oceans and human health, national security, and developing innovative technology to observe the planet.

The communications office at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego strives to create communications that enhance the reputation of Scripps Oceanography, position the institution as a leader in earth science research, and create communications that aid in the recruitment of outstanding and diverse faculty, students, and staff. The science writer is a 25% limited position who will be responsible for writing news releases and feature stories on scientific discovery from Scripps Institution of Oceanography.

The writer will research, select sources for, and conduct interviews, ensuring the accuracy of written pieces, and adhering to grammar and AP style.

The primary focus will be translating discoveries from the Scripps Oceanography research community into lay-friendly written pieces. The writer will compose and edit materials for distribution to news media, publications on campus news channels, reports, collateral, and other department needs.

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• Experience writing clear, lively, engaging and compelling copy in a variety of styles appropriate to target audiences and / or the broader public, while ensuring adherence to the location's message.
• Thorough knowledge of issues in higher education, a specialized academic discipline or field and / or health sciences. Prior experience writing about ocean, earth and atmospheric science required.
• Knowledge of issues in oceanography, geophysics, and marine biology.
• Thorough knowledge of the fundamentals of writing, grammar, syntax, style, and punctuation.
• Thorough knowledge of appropriate editorial style and publication guidelines.
• Experience in research and fact verification.
• Thorough knowledge of our location, including its mission, goals, achievements, infrastructure, programs, and policies.
• Knowledge of computer applications for publishing, image handling, and / or web production.
• Thorough interpersonal communications skills, including active listening and effective collaboration skills.
• Strong attention to detail, project management and organizational skills.

• Job offer contingent upon successful completion of a background check.
• Please provide three writing samples of features or news stories with a minimum word count of 750 words via a hyperlink in a cover letter.

Pay Transparency Act

Annual Full Pay Range: $71,600 - $127,400 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent: $34.29 - $61.02

Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).