What does a Computer Scientist do?

Computer Scientists carry out the research that drives technological development. Their work leads to innovations in AI, robotics, programming languages, cybersecurity, software development and biotechnology. In some cases, Computer Scientists develop technologies for their employers to market to customers.

By carrying out the duties outlined in their computer science job descriptions, they enable their organizations to provide cutting-edge products and services. Computer Scientists may also work for government agencies, conducting research that strengthens the military, homeland security and medical technology research.

Computer Scientist skills and qualifications

To succeed professionally, a Computer Scientist must possess certain skills and qualifications. You may consider adding the following computer science job requirements to your job description to attract qualified candidates:

• Extensive knowledge of computer hardware and software that provides a foundation for developing hypotheses

• Problem-solving skills to identify potential solutions to computing problems

• High-level mathematics skills to perform necessary calculations during experiments

• In-depth knowledge of C++, Java, Haskell, Python and other computer programming languages

• Familiarity with cybersecurity and information security best practices to safeguard their work

• Strong verbal communication skills to collaborate with other professionals and give effective presentations

• Established written communication skills to write concise, clear papers

• Analytical skills to interpret the results of experiments

Computer Scientist experience requirements

The experience level listed in your computer science job requirements depends on the nature of your open position. If you’re looking to add a new Computer Scientist to an existing team that includes seasoned scientists, a candidate may be able to succeed with no experience beyond their college education. On the other hand, positions that involve working alone or overseeing the work of entry-level Computer Scientists often require several years of work experience. You may also request experience in a specific field related to the position, such as machine learning or software development.

Computer Scientist education and training requirements

Generally, a master’s degree in computer science is typically the minimum education required to work as a Computer Scientist. When positions involve experimenting with highly advanced technology or serving as a research team leader, employers may prefer to list a doctoral degree in computer science as the minimum education requirement.

If your new hire will be working in a particular specialty, such as biotechnology or robotics, you may wish to prioritize candidates who have completed relevant coursework at the undergraduate or graduate level. Depending on the details of your open position, you could list related supplementary certifications as a required or preferred qualification in your computer science job description. Examples of related certifications include C and C++ certification from the C++ Institute and Certified Professional Python Programmer (PCPP) certification from the Python Institute.

Job description samples for similar positions

If the computer science job description outlined above doesn’t fully align with your open position, consider these related job titles:

• Computer Engineer

• Computer Programmer

• Computer Systems Analyst

• Data Scientist

Computer Scientist job description FAQs

What’s the difference between a Computer Scientist and a Computer Engineer?

Both Computer Scientists and Computer Engineers research new avenues of technological development, but their focuses differ. Computer Engineers usually work on computer hardware, while Computer Scientists solve problems related to software and data systems. In some cases, Computer Scientists and Computer Engineers collaborate on research teams.

What’s the difference between a Computer Scientist and a Data Scientist?

Computer Scientists and Data Scientists conduct experiments related to computers, but their goals differ. A Data Scientist seeks to solve real-world data processing issues for their employers. For example, they may be responsible for developing and refining an algorithm for a specific purpose. A Computer Scientist often investigates approaches to computing problems from a theoretical standpoint, making discoveries that Data Scientists use in their work.

What’s the difference between a Computer Scientist and a Computer Systems Analyst?

Computer Systems Analysts typically don’t develop hypotheses and theories like Computer Scientists. Instead, they analyze the performance of established computer systems, identifying weaknesses and developing solutions to address them.