The job of a computer scientist (my favourite!)

Computer Scientist
What a Computer Scientist Does
The term computer scientist
applies to a person who can
perform a wide range of jobs in
information technology and
related fields. A computer
scientist often uses current forms
of technology, or creates new
ones, in order to solve complex
problems, thus applying
information technology principles
to real-world situations.
Computer scientists work as
robotics researchers, hardware
designers, software engineers,
technology consultants, and
systems analysts for universities,
government organizations, and
private corporations. The results
of their work support our
intricate and highly-computerized
ways of living. Computer
scientists help us maintain proper
air traffic flow in the skies above
our cities. Computer scientists
help shipping companies
distribute goods to ports around
the world. Computer scientists
help us become healthier by
improving our medical
technology. The opportunities for
someone interested in becoming
a computer scientist are basically
limited only to the vision of the
person who wishes to one day
use their education to work in
the field of technology.
How to Become a Computer
Scientist
To work as a computer scientist,
you most likely will need to earn
a PhD in computer science,
information technology, or a
related subject area. Although
this requirement applies to a
majority of jobs out there, you
might be able to find a job in the
Federal government with only a
bachelor's degree; however, you
will need to pursue further
education if you want to keep up
with developments in the field.
Generally, a PhD in computer
science takes about five years to
complete on top of the standard
length of time required for a
bachelor's degree. PhD programs
will familiarize you with
foundational concepts of
computer science before allowing
you to specialize in an area of
concentration, such as robotics or
software development. In
addition to this extensive
academic background, computer
scientists have a strong sense for
mathematics and other technical
concerns. A computer engineer
must be able to concentrate on
the details, while keeping in
mind the overall goals of each
project. Strong communication
skills allow a computer scientist
to work with other employees
and build projects to their needs,
even if they aren't familiar with
computer technology.
Career Outlook for Computer
Scientists
Computer Scientists will have
excellent job opportunities in the
next eight years, according to the
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
(BLS). The market for computer
scientists will grow faster than
usual for other jobs, most likely
due to the constant demand for
the development of bigger and
better technological solutions in
all sectors. Furthermore, as the
technology improves, more
computer scientists will be
needed to manage and apply it.
From 2008 to 2018, jobs for
computer scientists are projected
to grow nearly 24 percent,
making this occupation one of
the fastest growing occupations in
the nation. In fact, BLS has found
that many companies often say
that they cannot find enough
employees to fill computer-
related positions. Once hired,
computer scientists tend to work
for very good money. In May of
2008, the median annual salary
of computer scientists was
$97,970, and the top ten percent
of computer scientists earned
$151,250. Although only a few
earned this much, it speaks to
the great earning potential for
someone interested in becoming
a computer scientist.