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Computer and Information Research Scientist

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What is a Computer and Information Research Scientist?

Computer & Information Research Scientist Job 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.

What Do Computer and Information Research Scientists Do On a Daily Basis?

  • Analyze problems to develop solutions involving computer hardware and software.
  • Develop performance standards, and evaluate work in light of established standards.
  • Approve, prepare, monitor, and adjust operational budgets.
  • Meet with managers, vendors, and others to solicit cooperation and resolve problems.
  • Consult with users, management, vendors, and technicians to determine computing needs and system requirements.
  • Maintain network hardware and software, direct network security measures, and monitor networks to ensure availability to system users.

Qualities of a Computer & Information Research Scientist

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.

Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

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.

Systems Analysis: Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.

Types of Computer and Information Research Scientist

  • Nanotechnologist
  • Control System Computer Scientist
  • Machine Learning Scientist
  • Process Engineer
  • Computer Scientist

Are There Job Opportunities for Computer and Information Research Scientists?

There were about 27,900 jobs for Computer and Information Research Scientist in 2016 (in the United States). 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. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 2,500 job openings in this field each year.

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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.

What is the Average Salary of a Computer & Information Research Scientist

The average yearly salary of a Computer & Information Research Scientist ranges between $69,230 and $183,820.

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Computer and Information Research Scientists who work in Washington, New Mexico, or Minnesota, make the highest salaries.

Below is a list of the median annual salaries for Computer and Information Research Scientists in different U.S. states.

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

Tools & Technologies Used by Computer and Information Research Scientists

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
  • Microsoft Dynamics
  • SAS
  • Linux
  • Ruby
  • Microsoft Visual Basic
  • Extensible markup language XML
  • IBM SPSS Statistics

Becoming a Computer & Information Research Scientist

Learn what Computer and Information Research Scientist education requirements there are.

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What work experience do I need to become a Computer & Information Research Scientist?

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Where Computer and Information Research Scientists Work

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The table below shows the approximate number of Computer and Information Research Scientists employed by various industries.

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References:

Image Credit: U.S. Army graphic via Public domain

More about our data sources and methodologies.

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