Speech Writer Job at ITCON Services in Vienna

Speech Writer — National Science Foundation

We're seeking outside‑the‑box thinkers who are technically skilled and customer focused. Join us as we expand our team!

Role Summary

As a Speech Writer for the National Science Foundation, your primary mission is to transform complex, technical information into compelling stories and clear messages that resonate with a wide range of audiences. This means:

• Crafting speeches, congressional testimony, talking points, and leadership presentations that inform, inspire, and persuade.
• Tailoring content for the audience—lawmakers, scientists, community stakeholders—so technical details are clear and engaging.
• Translating briefing material into memorable narratives that highlight science and policy impact.
• Supporting the Director and senior leaders with advocacy tools and clear communication.
• Driving engagement to build trust and understanding between the agency and its stakeholders.

Primary Responsibilities

• Draft and revise speeches, testimonies, remarks, and talking points for senior leadership.
• Synthesize technical briefings, program summaries, and research findings into clear messages aligned with agency priorities.
• Coordinate with program subject‑matter experts (SMEs), Government Affairs, and Legal for accuracy and clearance.
• Create annotated speaking notes and Q&A decks to support engagements.
• Support rapid‑response needs outside normal hours when events or inquiries arise.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Policy, English, Science Communication, or related field.
• 5+ years of professional speechwriting or senior communications experience with complex technical content.
• Mastery of AP style and Plain Language standards.
• Proven ability to synthesize technical material for congressional and executive audiences.
• Excellent audio/visual briefing and PowerPoint skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with federal agencies or congressional offices; knowledge of science policy a plus.
• Advanced degree in a STEM field or science communication.

Deliverables

• Draft speeches tailored to specific audiences and occasions.
• Final approved scripts ready for delivery at official events.
• Talking‑point memoranda—concise bullet‑point summaries of key messages.
• Q&A sets—anticipated questions and recommended answers for leadership use.
• Annotated briefing briefs—detailed documents with background, notes, and context.

Location & Hours

Primarily at the headquarters in Alexandria, VA; availability for nights and weekends.

Performance Measures

• Timeliness: Deliver speeches and materials within established deadlines.
• Stakeholder Satisfaction: Receive positive feedback from agency leadership and program offices.
• Clearance Error Rate: Maintain a low rate of required corrections during internal review.
• Uptake and Use in External Engagements: Written materials are routinely adopted by leadership in hearings, public events, and communications.

Seniority Level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type

Full‑time

Job Function

Other

Industries

IT Services and IT Consulting