Science Writer and Communications Coordinator (hybrid), Physical Sciences and Engineering, Argonne National Laboratory

Argonne is seeking a talented science writer and communications coordinator to support its Physical Sciences and Engineering area. The individual will join a small team that carries out internal and external communications for areas including chemistry, nuclear physics, high energy physics, materials science and nanoscience.

The science writer and communications coordinator tells the stories of Argonne science and technology through traditional and digital media, translating complex scientific and/or technical topics for a variety of audiences from the general public to Ph.D. researchers. This position works across teams to develop a variety of written and multimedia communications products, coordinates communications projects, and develops and executes communications plans and tactics.

As a member of the lab’s Communications and Public Affairs division, the science writer and communications coordinator works alongside teams of graphic designers, video producers, photographers, media relations professionals, and web and social media experts.

The individual will work on a wide variety of communications projects, with an emphasis on writing and editing. Products include articles, news releases, talking points, internal communications (such as memos, announcements and awards), social media content, web content, videos, and other scientific content that reports Argonne research results to peers, sponsors and stakeholders.

Primary Activities:

• Reporting to the Head of Communications for Physical Sciences and Engineering, support the implementation of an annual strategic communications plan.
• Understand the work of the laboratory and specific assigned areas, including their key priorities, objectives, sponsors and partners. 
• Build relationships with researchers and leaders within the assigned areas.
• Develop and maintain knowledge of the subject matter and trends applicable to the science and partnerships in assigned areas.
• Plan, coordinate and execute original communications products and publications related to research and operations.
• Write a variety of communications from news releases to internal memos to talking points.
• Ensure that communications products align with overall laboratory messaging and branding.
• Coordinate, facilitate and get approval for access to areas required for photo and video activity, and media and tour requests.
• Feed content into lab-wide channels and tracking systems. 
• Coordinate with Public Information Officers at other institutions on articles and news releases. 
• Collect communications metrics and layout newsletter content in digital software platforms.
• Support internal and external events as needed.

Position Requirements

• Demonstrated expertise in the delivery of clear and concise communication to external and internal audiences, using traditional and digital means of delivery.

• Ability to translate scientific and technical content for both basic and sophisticated audiences, focusing on the impact of the work in real-world terms.

• Able to write in a variety of formats, in varying levels of formality, with strategic attention to tone.

• Broad-based integrated marketing communications experience across multiple areas: science communications, media relations, internal communications, digital/social.

• Demonstrated ability to deliver measurable results (increased awareness, higher client satisfaction, increased engagement, etc.).

• Client service mindset, able to take in and clarify objectives and goals of researchers and leadership.

• Outstanding communications skills: written, verbal, interpersonal.

• Strong teaming and collaboration skills.

• Deadline driven, highly responsive.

• Highly organized with strong attention to detail.

• Flexible and adaptable with highly fluid situations.

• Able to model Argonne’s Core Values: Impact, Safety, Respect, Integrity, and Teamwork.

• Bachelor's degree + 2 years of experience, or equivalent.

• A background in the physical sciences is preferred.

Job Family

Professional Administrative (PA)

Job Profile

Communications/Marketing 2

Worker Type

Regular

Time Type

Full time

As an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed