← Back to search

Computer and Information Research Scientists

SOC: 15-1221 • Data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics & O*NET

What They Do

Computer and Information Research Scientists typically perform the following tasks: • Analyze problems to develop solutions involving computer hardware and software. • Apply theoretical expertise and innovation to create or apply new technology, such as adapting principles for applying computers to new uses. • Assign or schedule tasks to meet work priorities and goals. • Meet with managers, vendors, and others to solicit cooperation and resolve problems. • Design computers and the software that runs them. • Conduct logical analyses of business, scientific, engineering, and other technical problems, formulating mathematical models of problems for solution by computers. • Evaluate project plans and proposals to assess feasibility issues. • Participate in multidisciplinary projects in areas such as virtual reality, human-computer interaction, or robotics. • Consult with users, management, vendors, and technicians to determine computing needs and system requirements. • Develop and interpret organizational goals, policies, and procedures. • Develop performance standards, and evaluate work in light of established standards. • Maintain network hardware and software, direct network security measures, and monitor networks to ensure availability to system users. • Direct daily operations of departments, coordinating project activities with other departments. • Participate in staffing decisions and direct training of subordinates. • Approve, prepare, monitor, and adjust operational budgets.

Career Video

Video from CareerOneStop, sponsored by U.S. Department of Labor

Key facts

Median: $140,910
Employment: 40,300
Growth (2024–2034): +20.0%
Education: Master's degree

Career Intelligence Metrics

Automation Risk Assessment

Low Risk
12.0% probability of being automated in the next 10-20 years. This job is relatively safe from automation due to its creative, social, or complex problem-solving requirements.

Work-Life Balance Score

8.8/10
Excellent work-life balance based on typical work schedules, stress levels, and time demands.

Personality Fit (RIASEC Profile)

7.4
Realistic
9.2
Investigative
4.6
Artistic
5.4
Social
5.6
Enterprising
6.8
Conventional
Powered by O*NET Career Profiling

Personality Match: The higher the score (out of 10), the better this career matches that personality type. People with similar interests and work styles tend to be most satisfied in careers that match their personality profile.

O*NET Official Logo Official assessment tool by the U.S. Department of Labor

Top Skills

Analytical skills Communication skills Detail oriented Interpersonal skills Logical thinking Math skills Problem-solving skills

Strengths

  • High Demand
  • Flexible Work
  • Continuous Learning

Challenges

  • Burnout Risk
  • Rapid Technological Change

Median Salary Comparison

Employment projection (2024–2034)

Geographic Employment & Wage Analysis

BLS OEWS Data Updated 2024-05
View Interactive BLS Maps

States with Highest Employment

  • California 8,570
  • Virginia 3,150
  • Texas 2,800
  • Maryland 2,750
  • Washington 2,590
  • Massachusetts 1,800
  • New York 1,320
  • New Jersey 1,110
  • Florida 1,090
  • Utah 870
BLS OEWS data (2024-05)

Regional Wage Variations

  • California +11%
    $156,290
  • Virginia +9%
    $153,340
  • Texas -28%
    $101,990
  • Maryland 0%
    $141,540
  • Washington +58%
    $221,990
  • Massachusetts +18%
    $166,910
  • New York +40%
    $197,390
  • New Jersey 4%
    $146,290
  • Florida -17%
    $117,250
  • Utah -33%
    $94,830
BLS OEWS state wage data
Top Metropolitan Areas
New York-Newark-Jersey City
Employment: High Growth: +3.2%
Los Angeles-Long Beach
Employment: High Growth: +2.8%
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin
Employment: Medium Growth: +1.5%
Dallas-Fort Worth
Employment: Medium Growth: +4.1%
San Francisco-Oakland
Employment: High Growth: +2.3%
Based on BLS metropolitan area data
Industries with Highest Concentrations
Software publishers
85%
Computer systems design and related services
70%
Research and development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences
55%
Regional Job Market Outlook
Strong
West Coast
Stable
Northeast
Growing
South