Lead Science Writer

Online applications must be received before 12:00am on:

January 27, 2025

If a date is not listed above, review the Applicant Instructions below for more details.

Available Title(s):

1282-NN_ADMINPRO - Public Relations/Communications Coord Senior

Business Title:

Lead Science Writer

Employee Type:

Admin. Professional

Position Details:

The Opportunity:

As the Lead Science Writer, you will serve as the lead science writer for Washington State University (WSU) and will be responsible for identifying stories about research with the best potential for attracting state, regional and national/international news coverage. Much of the subject matter will be of a scientific nature, so the ability to translate complex subjects in ways that will appeal to the average reader is essential. You will identify and develop news-style articles that will be promoted by WSU as well as stories and news releases that can be used as trusted resources by reporters, broadcasters and other news and information outlets. You will decide the most effective manner to pitch stories to the appropriate news outlets and will be expected to be creative. 

This position is located on the WSU Pullman campus, but may be eligible for a hybrid/remote work arrangement.

Required Qualifications:

• A Bachelor’s degree in public relations, mass communications or a relevant field AND three (3) years of professional experience in print or broadcast news media, public relations or marketing including proven experience with writing and editing skills; writing feature articles, brochures, annual reports and speeches; executing strategic communication plans and complex communication projects.

• Five (5) or more years of professional journalism, with proven experience in science or science journalism.

• Experience interviewing scientists and translating and writing technical, complex material to general audiences.

• Documented success of placement of news stories or research articles in news or other publications.

• Demonstrated ability of what print and/or broadcast media are looking for in a science-related story.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proven experience working with EurekaAlert, social media channels and other research-related platforms.

• Proven experience working with media monitoring platforms.

Additional Information:

Area/College: University Marketing and Communications
Department Name: News and Media Relations
City, State, Zip: Pullman, WA, 99164
Department Link: University Marketing and Communications Webpage
Monthly Salary: $4,942 to $7,569 | In accordance with RCW 49.58.110, the above salary reflects the full salary range for this position. Individual placement within the range is based on the candidate’s current experience, education, skills, and abilities related to the position. Successful candidates typically begin up to mid-point of the salary range. For additional information, please review WSU’s Administrative Professional Compensation.

Benefits: WSU offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes paid sick and vacation leave; paid holidays; medical, dental, life and disability insurance package for employees and dependents; retirement; deferred compensation and optional supplemental retirement accounts. For additional information, please review the detailed Summary of Benefits offered by WSU for AP staff and Total Compensation.

Overtime Eligibility: Overtime eligibility will be determined based on final salary placement.
FTE: 100%
This is a Permanent position.

Background Check: This position has been designated by the department to require a background check because it requires access to children or vulnerable adults as defined by RCW 74.34, engages in law enforcement, requires security clearance, interacts with WSU students in a counseling or advising capacity, has