Life As a Computer and Information Research Scientist
Occupation Description Conduct research into fundamental computer and information science as theorists, designers, or inventors. Develop solutions to problems in the field of computer hardware and software.
List of Computer & Information Research Scientist Job Duties
- Participate in multidisciplinary projects in areas such as virtual reality, human-computer interaction, or robotics.
- Analyze problems to develop solutions involving computer hardware and software.
- Apply theoretical expertise and innovation to create or apply new technology, such as adapting principles for applying computers to new uses.
- Assign or schedule tasks to meet work priorities and goals.
- Participate in staffing decisions and direct training of subordinates.
- Develop performance standards, and evaluate work in light of established standards.
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Computer & Information Research Scientist Skills
Computer and Information Research Scientists state the following job skills are important in their day-to-day work.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Systems Analysis: Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Types of Computer & Information Research Scientist Jobs
- Research and Development Engineer
- Data Analyst
- Software Engineer
- Scientific Programmer Analyst
- Programming Methodology and Languages Researcher
Job Opportunities for Computer and Information Research Scientists
In 2016, there was an estimated number of 27,900 jobs in the United States for Computer and Information Research Scientist. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 19% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 5,300 new jobs for Computer and Information Research Scientist by 2026. The BLS estimates 2,500 yearly job openings in this field.
The states with the most job growth for Computer & Information Research Scientist are Nebraska, Washington, and Utah. Watch out if you plan on working in Mississippi, Alaska, or South Carolina. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
Salary for a Computer & Information Research Scientist
The typical yearly salary for Computer and Information Research Scientists is somewhere between $69,230 and $183,820.
Computer and Information Research Scientists who work in Washington, New Mexico, or Minnesota, make the highest salaries.
How much do Computer and Information Research Scientists make in each U.S. state?
State | Annual Mean Salary |
---|---|
Alabama | $138,510 |
Arizona | $111,510 |
Arkansas | $95,220 |
California | $136,310 |
Colorado | $121,180 |
Connecticut | $117,990 |
District of Columbia | $127,900 |
Florida | $101,120 |
Georgia | $100,140 |
Hawaii | $107,520 |
Idaho | $137,180 |
Illinois | $113,350 |
Indiana | $107,150 |
Kansas | $94,300 |
Louisiana | $89,810 |
Maryland | $119,180 |
Massachusetts | $116,920 |
Michigan | $103,350 |
Minnesota | $129,890 |
Mississippi | $95,860 |
Missouri | $96,810 |
Nebraska | $86,400 |
Nevada | $103,070 |
New Hampshire | $128,240 |
New Jersey | $127,420 |
New Mexico | $136,370 |
New York | $131,220 |
North Carolina | $108,460 |
Ohio | $112,490 |
Oklahoma | $84,070 |
Oregon | $130,220 |
Pennsylvania | $107,660 |
Rhode Island | $108,890 |
South Carolina | $96,870 |
Tennessee | $113,960 |
Texas | $125,800 |
Utah | $98,210 |
Virginia | $129,840 |
Washington | $143,080 |
West Virginia | $77,580 |
Wisconsin | $77,870 |
What Tools do Computer and Information Research Scientists Use?
Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Computer and Information Research Scientists:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office
- JavaScript
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Git
- Python
- MySQL
- Data entry software
- MongoDB
- Data visualization software
- Microsoft Project
- Structured query language SQL
- The MathWorks MATLAB
- SAS
- Microsoft Dynamics
- Linux
- Ruby
- Microsoft Visual Basic
- Extensible markup language XML
- IBM SPSS Statistics
How to Become a Computer & Information Research Scientist
What kind of Computer and Information Research Scientist requirements are there?
How many years of work experience do I need?
Where Computer and Information Research Scientists Work
Computer and Information Research Scientists work in the following industries:
Similar Careers
Those thinking about becoming a Computer and Information Research Scientist might also be interested in the following careers:
References:
Image Credit: U.S. Army graphic via Public domain
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