Science writer : Salary and conditions

Salary level depends on the type of work the writer undertakes, the type of employer and how much experience the writer has.
Science writers can earn between £18,000 and £22,000 per year when first starting out, although some positions may pay less at around £15,000. Salaries vary widely between regions and publications. Writers can expect their salary to rise with experience.
Working hours vary. Science writers may have to work long hours to meet deadlines. A flexible approach may also be needed to accommodate breaking news.
Work is primarily office based but visits to meet with clients or to interview experts may be required.
Science writers often work on a freelance basis, putting a proposal forward to a science editor. In these instances work may be done from home or the writer may travel into the company’s offices if they have been contracted to do a certain amount of work.
Freelancers are paid for each individual piece of work. Most outlets have standard fees, including set amounts for small articles and per-word prices for longer articles.
Part-time work is an option and career breaks are a real possibility. Jobs are available in cities throughout the UK.
Travel during the working day is common. Writers may also travel internationally to attend conferences and visit clients.

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AGCAS

Written by AGCAS editors

Date:

May 2011