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Computer and Information Research Scientist

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All About Computer and Information Research Scientists

Position 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.

Life As a Computer & Information Research Scientist

  • Approve, prepare, monitor, and adjust operational budgets.
  • Consult with users, management, vendors, and technicians to determine computing needs and system requirements.
  • Assign or schedule tasks to meet work priorities and goals.
  • Meet with managers, vendors, and others to solicit cooperation and resolve problems.
  • Conduct logical analyses of business, scientific, engineering, and other technical problems, formulating mathematical models of problems for solution by computers.
  • Direct daily operations of departments, coordinating project activities with other departments.

Things a Computer & Information Research Scientist Should Know How to Do

When polled, Computer and Information Research Scientists say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:

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.

  • Information Scientist
  • Systems Analyst
  • Data Scientist
  • Systems Programmer
  • Artificial Intelligence Specialist

Are There 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.

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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.

Average Computer and Information Research Scientists Salary

The typical yearly salary for Computer and Information Research Scientists is somewhere 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.

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 & Technology 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

Becoming a Computer & Information Research Scientist

What education or degrees do I need to become a Computer and Information Research Scientist?

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

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Computer and Information Research Scientists Sector

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Computer and Information Research Scientists work in the following industries:

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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

More about our data sources and methodologies.

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