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Scientific Illustrator

The position is hybrid, with potential for full-time at the client site in Alexandria, VA.

ILLUSTRATION PORTFOLIO IS REQUIRED WITH APPLICATION.

Spire Communications is hiring a full-time, highly skilled scientific illustrator to translate complex scientific and research concepts into accurate, visually compelling illustrations for the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). This role works closely with researchers to ensure scientific accuracy while producing original artwork across traditional, digital, and 3-D formats for use in press materials, presentations, and public-facing content.

All illustrations, designs, and other work products created under this engagement are the sole property of Spire or the client for whom the work is performed.

Spire Communications is a woman-owned strategic communications and creative firm based in Alexandria, VA that supports science, technology, and engineering organizations within the government and private sectors.

This position is hybrid, with the potential to be fully onsite, based at the client site in Alexandria, VA. The opportunity is contingent upon contract award.

Salary range: $70,000 – $110,000

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What You’ll Do

  • Communicate with researchers to understand and interpret subject matter.
  • Create original illustrations in both traditional and digital formats (including 3-D) across a range of applications, from print documents and presentations to large-format exhibits and event displays.
  • Create a range of scientific illustration types, including diagrams, schematics, scientific figures, and explanatory visuals.
  • Illustrate and design infographics and scientific posters.
  • Research subject matter for accuracy in illustrations and infographics.
  • Follow the Agency’s branding guidelines.
  • Ensure all content meets current Section 508/WCAG accessibility requirements.

What You’ll Bring to Spire

  • Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in illustration or related discipline.
  • 6+ years of professional experience in illustration.
  • Proficiency with the Adobe Creative Cloud suite of products.
  • Understanding of Section 508/WCAG accessibility requirements.
  • Demonstrate versatility creating illustrations across diverse subject matter aligned with NSF’s focus areas (e.g., Biology, Engineering, Computing, AI, Cybersecurity).

Major Pluses

  • Federal or federally funded research experience.
  • Animation skills.
  • Scientific or medical illustration certifications.

Our benefits

Medical (United Healthcare), dental (CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield), and vision (United Concordia) plans paid at 100% (employee premium) plus 30% contribution to family premium

Monthly $50 “wellness” stipend for gym memberships, spa services, etc.

Life and disability insurance (short- and long-term)

18 days PTO and 8 federal holidays per year (+Veterans Day for those who have served)

Flexible home/office environment

Home office expense reimbursement

401(k) plan with automatic 3% of salary employer contribution

Employee referral bonuses

Annual stipend for employee and/or job-related training

About Spire

We are a boutique, woman-led agency that specializes in technology, health, and science. Our clients are federal agencies and contractors charged with advanced R&D and vital national programs that make life better for all Americans. Our team is committed to the work of these pioneers and public servants. We believe in their missions, marvel at their innovations, and delight in telling their stories.

Every member of our team is a senior-level communicator. This means every assignment is an opportunity to work with and learn from the best strategists and storytellers—designers, videographers, writers, editors, media relations leads, social media managers, and web developers.

Submit an Application

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1. Contact Information

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2. Personal Details

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3. Upload Resume

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4. Submit Application

Before submitting your application, please review and acknowledge the following information:

Equal Opportunity Employer

Spire Communications is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, gender, age, color, religion, disability, veterans’ status, sexual orientation, or any other protected factor.

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