Lead Scientific Writer

Are you looking for a Challenge? Looking for an innovative organization and the opportunity to learn and grow professionally? We can help! We are seeking an International Institute of Tropical Forestry (IITF) Lead Scientific Writer to provide comprehensive scientific writing support to develop hurricane recovery communications, briefings, and educational materials that advance USDA Forest Service IITF programs in fire science, timber, and forest inventory, in alignment with Executive Orders 14223 and 14225. This position is contingent upon award.

I’ve never heard of Terrestris. What do you do?

At Terrestris, we leverage technology to create better mission outcomes through better human performance. We form strong client and team relationships through transparency and strive to create an environment where our team can let their excellence shine through. By finding, developing, and incorporating new ideas, we provide memorable services. Rooted in the USMC values of honor, courage, and commitment, Terrestris seeks to deliver extraordinary value to the American people by helping the Government become more efficient and effective.

So, what will the International Institute of Tropical Forestry (IITF) Lead Scientific Writer at Terrestris do?

The Lead Scientific Writer is a key personnel position. The writer will serve as the lead resource for translating complex scientific and technical findings into clear, accessible content for diverse audiences, including USDA leadership, Congress, forest managers, and the public. This role supports the USDA Forest Service International Institute of Tropical Forestry (IITF) in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, with a focus on hurricane recovery and broader forest science initiatives. The Lead Writer will develop monthly briefings, science translation blogs, outreach materials, and accomplishment reports; advise on communication strategies; and contribute to bimonthly reports for Congress. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in scientific writing, communications, and branding, fluency in English and Spanish, and a proven track record of working collaboratively in team environments to deliver high-quality, mission-driven communications.

What does a typical day look like for a International Institute of Tropical Forestry (IITF) Lead Scientific Writer?

You will:

• Develop monthly briefings on relevant scientific technical findings for the research work unit.
• Provide text for an accomplishment report highlighting scientific findings and capacity of IITF.
• Author science translation blogs, articles, research highlights, and communications related to hurricane recovery projects for USDA and Forest Service outlets.
• Attend regular meeting to discuss progress and editions of the tasks.
• Consolidate evidence, photos, materials of hurricane recovery projects with communications staff.
• Develop bimonthly reports for the Forest Service American Relief Act 60-day Congressional Report.

What qualifications do you look for?

You might be the professional we’re looking for if you have:

• Authorization to permanently work in the United States without sponsorship.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a favorable background check.
• Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or related discipline).
• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in public affairs, science writing, and advertising.
• At least 2 years of experience managing or contributing to public relations and outreach campaigns.
• Specialized skills in scientific writing, communications, and branding.
• Demonstrated fluency in English and Spanish, with exceptional writing and editing skills in both languages.
• Proven ability to work effectively and collaboratively within a team environment.

What kind of benefits does Terrestris Offer?

We offer outstanding benefits including health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, and work-life programs. Our award programs acknowledge employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our service standards. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in our benefit programs. Other offerings may be provided for employees not within this category.

Terrestris is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

DILBERT © 2018 Scott Adams. Used By permission of ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION. All rights reserved.