What is a Computer Scientist?
Computer scientists are also known as the designers, creators, and inventors of computers and new technology. This can include computer software, information technologies, and computer systems. While the specific job responsibilities and duties of computer scientists can vary between employers and what areas they work in, they generally also design computer chips and systems processors, and create new ways to make them run faster and more efficiently.
The work that computer scientists conduct essentially solves complex scientific problems and issues with general computers and technology. Computer scientists also conduct large amounts of research on topics relating to computer sciences, such as hardware and robotics, that allows them to explore and create new ways for computers to work. In addition, some computer scientists working with robotics attempt to create and design machines that can perform tasks without people controlling the machines.
How to Become a Computer Scientist
Those interested in pursuing a career as a computer scientist should be highly trained and skilled, and have extensive knowledge and expertise in the area. While most computer scientists possess a Ph.D. in computer science, computer engineering, or a closely related concentration, some federal government computer scientist positions require a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field to be considered.
Computer scientists must posses a strong background in mathematics and technical topics that are crucial to know in the computer and technology world. They must be very creative, be able to think logically, and pay close attention to detail. It is common for computer scientists to have to work on a number of tasks simultaneously so multitasking and time management is also very important. In addition, computer scientists may conduct research with other groups and participate in large group projects often, so they must be able to communicate well and effectively with other programmers and personnel.
Computer Scientist Career Outlook & Salary
Those interested in pursuing computer scientist careers are in luck, as the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that growth in the field should occur much faster than the average occupation, with job prospects being excellent over the next several years. Employment of computer scientists is expected to grow by 24% between the 2008 to 2018 period.
Individuals, businesses, and organizations continuing to have interest in and demand increasingly advanced technology will account for such expected growth in the field. Growth will also be attributed to the high demand for efficiency in computing speeds, networking, and overall performance as they relate to computer systems.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that computer scientists earned annual median salaries of $97,970 in May 2008, the most current information available by the Bureau. Of those, the middle 50% earned between $75,340 and $124,370, with the highest 10% of computer scientists earning annual salaries of more than $151,250.
