Computer Scientist: Job Description, Duties and Requirements

Essential Information
Computer scientists develop new technologies, systems and computer-based
solutions. The most common educational requirement for advanced research positions
in the field is a doctorate degree in computer science; A career as a computer scientist
is most suitable for those who have strong math skills and are detail-oriented.
Required Education

Bachelor's or doctoral degree in computer science

Projected Job Growth 15% from 2012-2022 (all computer and information scientists)*
Average Salary (2013) $109,260 annually (all computer and information scientists)*
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Job Description
Computer scientists, also called computer and information scientists, can work for
government agencies and private software publishers, engineering firms or academic
institutions. Businesses and government agencies usually employ these scientists
to develop new products or solve computing problems. Computer scientists
employed by academic institutions are typically involved in more theoretical
explorations of computing issues, often using experimentation and modeling in
their research.
Duties
Computer scientists often work as part of a research team with computer
programmers, information technology professionals, and mechanical or electrical
engineers. Their research often is used to design new computer technology. They
typically investigate technological topics like artificial intelligence, robotics or
virtual reality. The results of their research can lead to the improved performance of
existing computer systems and software as well as the development of new hardware or
computing techniques and materials.

What Are the Job Duties of an Information Technology Professional?

Web Development
Web developers are responsible for the creation of company websites, layout
design, writing code, and usability testing. Many work closely with graphic
designers. Web developers typically work for web design firms or as independent
contractors.
Programming
IT programmers design applications by writing the code that instructs
computers to perform specific functions. Programmers may work for a software
development company or within a business, executing projects that are specific to that
organization's needs.
Technical Support
Computer support specialists provide technical assistance to their clients, from
troubleshooting e-mail to training individuals in new software applications.
Many tech support professionals work at a help desk within an organization, while
others work for companies that offer outsourced technical services.
Systems Administration
Systems administrators install and repair an organization's computer systems.
They are responsible for maintaining communications, such as internet and
intranet systems, local area networks (LAN), and wide area networks (WAN)
Project and Technical Services Management
Many IT professionals advance their careers as project or technical services
managers. A project manager is responsible for overseeing individual projects,
from communicating with clients to coordinating designers and programmers.
Technical services managers direct the computing resources for their
company.