A computer scientist understands the theoretical aspects of working with computers. They do not necessarily work with hardware and applications in the same way that computer engineers do. Instead, a computer scientist considers how technology handles information then applies it to programs.
Computer scientists are usually hired by software development firms. Their role includes creating new theories around technology development. While other people at a software firm may be building current technologies, a computer scientist is thinking through ideas on how to take that technology to the next level in sustainable and efficient ways. Computer scientists also use their knowledge to work in software engineering or as IT consultants. They may also find work at universities and research companies.
On the job, computer scientists use technology to solve problems and prepare for the future. They also write and program software to create applications. Their primary focus, however, is to validate and develop models for interaction between people and computers or software and devices. The computer science field is very diverse and there are jobs within many different sectors of the industry.
Computer scientists conduct theoretical investigations in a lot of different areas. They are also interested in database theory and software engineering. Numerical analysis, computational complexity theory, computer graphics and programming languages are also areas where the computer scientist has applicable knowledge.
Computer scientists, including database administrators, network architects and computer systems analysts, typically work 40 hour weeks in comfortable offices, but sometimes they work nights and weekends to resolve technical problems or meet deadlines.
The average salary for a Computer Scientist is KSH 137,000 per month. Note that salaries vary depending on the company.
Computer scientists are highly sought-after in the technology field. This environment is usually collaborative and fast-paced. So, to become a computer scientist, you need to be comfortable being creative and working quickly.
Companies looking to hire computer scientists are looking for people who have exceptional planning and coding skills. They want somebody who can contribute in the very beginning of an idea and see a project through to the end.
Most computer scientists are required to possess a Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy), M.S.(Master of Science), or B.S.(Bachelor of Science) in computer science, or other similar fields like Information and Computer Science (CIS), or a closely related discipline such as mathematics or physics.
