Science Writer and Communications Specialist

Requisition Id 12815 

Overview:

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is seeking a science writer with strong journalism skills who can tell compelling stories of how 3D printing and other next-generation manufacturing capabilities may lead to a smarter, more sustainable build process. These new technologies may one day help drive a lunar rover, create smarter, more energy efficient homes, and help revitalize American manufacturing while reducing the industry’s carbon footprint.  

The position resides in ORNL’s Communications Division and is matrixed to the Manufacturing Science Division (MSD), which is focused on working with industry to make manufacturing smarter, cleaner and more efficient while performing cutting-edge scientific research on longer-term national goals. MSD is part of the Energy Science and Technology Directorate (ESTD), which plays a pivotal role in America’s transformation into a clean, efficient, flexible, and secure energy future. Our researchers deliver breakthroughs in energy from generation to distribution and storage to end use in support of Department of Energy missions.

The ideal candidate will bring passion, drive, experience, and new ideas to the task of working with the scientists and engineers of MSD and ESTD, helping tell the story of their critical research. The successful candidate will be comfortable juggling multiple projects in a fast-paced, high-tech environment with tight deadlines, and will join an existing team of accomplished communicators embedded in ESTD.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• 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.

Basic Qualifications:

• 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. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• 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.

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.

Visa Sponsorship:

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Benefits at ORNL:  

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain talented people. The laboratory offers many employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to help you and your family live happy and healthy. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also provided for convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov or call 1.866.963.9545.

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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.