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Tech occupations have a reputation for being both well-paying and in-demand, especially for those with the right skill-set and training. These generalizations do not always ring true, but some of these careers, such as computer and information research scientists, are worth a closer look.

What computer and information research scientists do

Computer and information research science sits squarely on the cutting-edge of new computer technologies. These scientists study and solve complex computing problems in a plethora of industries, like business, medicine and science. In a nutshell, these professionals create the computer languages, software systems and other tools that push the boundaries of what is possible with today's technology. It is a high-skilled field that demands professionals with passion and a knack for logical thinking and analytics. In other words, math fanatics and stellar problem solvers may fare well.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov, 2011), computer and information research scientists' duties can vary, but may include some variation of the following tasks:

• Exploring fundamental issues in computation
• Developing theories and models to address those issues
• Inventing new computing languages, methods or tools
• Developing and improving software systems
• Designing experiments to test new software systems
• Analyzing experiments' results
• Publishing their research in academic journals

Most computer and information research scientists work full-time, but those conducting independent research have a great deal more flexibility.

How to become a computer and information research scientist

As noted, computer and information research science is a complex field that requires not just a great degree of higher-level thinking, but a truly intimate understanding of computers. In other words, expect to dedicate a number of years to your education if you choose to pursue this career. According to bls.gov, some employers prefer candidates who have graduated from doctoral-level computer and information research scientist degree programs, but there are a few government jobs for which a bachelor's degree might be sufficient. Some students may be able to complete at least some of this computer and information research scientist training online, which could be convenient for professionals already working in the industry who want to advance their educations.

Computer and information research scientist salary trends

Thanks to the demanding nature of the field combined with the advanced training required of its professionals, computer and information research scientists may earn a comfortable living. According to bls.gov (2011), the national computer and information research scientist salary in 2011 was a median $101,080 with the lowest 10% earning up to $56,800 and the top 10 percent earning up to $151,660. Those working in information services, wired telecommunication, and data processing and hosting tended to earn the most.

Location can impact one's earning potential considerably. According to bls.gov (2011), the following states offered the highest mean computer and information research scientist salary in 2011:

• Vermont: $123,620 mean
• California: $116,460 mean
• New Hampshire $116,210 mean

Note, however, that some of these higher-paying areas tend to have higher-than-average living costs, which can offset any premium in workers' earnings. With that in mind, cost-of-living information from the Missouri Department of Economic Development reveals that the following areas ranked within the top 15 states with the lowest cost of living in the second quarter of 2012, and computer and information research scientists earned the following annual mean wages in these states in 2011, according to bls.gov:

• Missouri: $88,800 mean, #12 cost-of-living rank
• Ohio: $101,080 mean, #15 cost-of-living rank
• Nebraska: $77,710 mean, #9 cost-of-living rank

Note that training and experience can also impact your salary potential significantly, so those who earn doctoral degrees from computer and information research scientist schools may tend to fare better than their lesser-trained colleagues, according to bls.gov.

Career outlook for computer and information research scientists

Bls.gov notes that computer-oriented professionals may be in high demand, and computer and information research scientists are no exception. According to bls.gov (2011), employment of these professionals is expected to grow by 19 percent between 2010 and 2020, five points higher than the national average for all occupations. Those who attend advanced computer and information research science degree programs may fare best, particularly Ph.D. candidates. Specialization also pays, so computer and information research science schools that offer additional training in areas like finance or biology may give students an additional career boost. Research a number of programs to ensure you find one that works for your goals, learning style and budget.