Job Description

Requisition Id 13795 

Overview:

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

The ideal candidate will bring a passion for working with scientists and engineers to tell their stories of scientific discovery. 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.

The position resides in ORNL’s Communications Directorate 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 drive for 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.

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.

• Develop working relationships with scientific staff and leadership 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 Directorate and Creative Services staff members, to provide ESTD with needed support.

• Suggest visual material in support of scientific and promotional information needs, then 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/BA degree in communications, journalism, public relations, marketing, English, a science, or other related field.

• A minimum of 5 years of experience producing communications products on science- and/or technology-related subjects for diverse audiences. 

• Candidates will be expected to share a portfolio of writing samples.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Substantial experience writing and producing a high quantity of news articles and communications products. Prefer experience in either a newsroom, research setting, or industrial energy sector.

• The ability to dive into the minutiae of scientific progress while maintaining awareness of high-level strategic objectives.

• Demonstrated experience working on multiple projects under tight deadline pressure.

• Ability to work with and manage expectations of scientists and engineers to build relationships and trust.

• Proficiency in managing communications projects from concept to completion as an individual contributor or in collaboration with other team members.

• Excellent attention to detail; the ability to understand, follow, and implement complex instructions; strong organizational skills; and excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills.

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.

In addition, we offer a flexible work environment that supports both the organization and the employee. A hybrid/onsite working arrangement may be available with this position.

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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.

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.

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