Daily Life of a Computer Scientist

Before you start studying computer science, it may benefit you to learn how a Computer Scientist spends their average work day. Understanding the common tasks and day-to-day workflow of a Computer Scientist is important and ensures that the role aligns with your career expectations, personal preferences, and desired lifestyle. On average, a Computer Scientist can be found coding, debugging, building models, handling data, or collaborating with other team members. A Computer Scientist plays an important role in any organization where data, computers, software, or other tech devices are involved in daily operations. Familiarizing yourself with these aspects and the average workday for a Computer Scientist can help you feel more prepared to start your career and handle real-world challenges. Doing so can ultimately result in you choosing the right educational path to suit your needs and wants.

What is a Computer Scientist?

A Computer Scientist is a professional who applies their technical and analytical skills, as well as the key principles of computer science, to solve problems and develop new technologies. They work on a variety of projects that range in purpose, from designing models and developing software to analyzing datasets and enhancing the functionality of a computer system. Additionally, they are frequently found researching new ideas and contributing to the betterment of an organization or specific product. Computer science is a wide-ranging field, so many Computer Scientists typically acquire skills in programming, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. All in all, they play a crucial role for any company that relies on computers, data, software systems, and other technical products to keep their day-to-day operations running smoothly.

Computer Scientist Specializations

As a computer science expert, you can work in a wide range of specializations and areas that all focus on different aspects of the computer science world. Below are a few related job titles that computer science professionals can specialize in.

Software Engineer

Software Engineers and Computer Scientists have similar roles that have different responsibilities and some shared skills. Typically, a Software Engineer will design, develop, and maintain software systems across different platforms. They typically have similar skills as a Computer Scientist, as they learn how to write and debug code, develop frameworks, run software tests, and ensure that the software functions as intended. While both roles require skills in coding, they may utilize their knowledge for different reasons.

Data Scientist

In addition, Data Scientists are similar to Computer Scientists and often find themselves working closely with one another. A Data Scientist will work with large datasets to gain more insights and make more informed decisions. They will frequently build and deploy machine learning algorithms, apply statistical analysis, and create data visualizations to share their findings with others. Both roles use these skills but differ in their focus, as one uses them for analyzing data and the other uses their skills to develop applications.

Cybersecurity Engineer

Many computer science experts become Cybersecurity Engineers as they are closely related and similar fields. Cybersecurity involves improving systems performance and security measures as well as detecting and protecting systems from security breaches and cyber-attacks. They will identify vulnerabilities in the software or computer system and implement safeguarding measures to ensure that consumer or business information does not leak. Computer Scientists have the tools and skills necessary to work in this position and others, if they so choose, which is one of the reasons computer science is such a worthwhile field.

Data Analyst

A Data Analyst is similar to a Computer Scientist in many ways. While a Computer Scientist will have a broader range of responsibilities, both roles will perform data analysis and manage large datasets. They both have strong skills in data management, computational theory, programming languages, and certain data visualization software. Data Analysts are responsible for cleaning, analyzing, visualizing, and reporting data whereas a Computer Scientist may do that, but will further design and deploy algorithms and solve computer errors. Overall, they both with work data, but their objectives may differ substantially. 

Starting Your Day

The daily tasks of a Computer Scientist can change, but typically, they perform certain tasks and focus on specific projects. Their days can be fairly regimented, which is good for keeping on task and maintaining a schedule. A Computer Scientist typically starts their day with a well-organized workspace where every tool is easily within reach. This may include a computer with multiple monitors, a keyboard, a mouse, and different materials, software, applications, discs, and means of communication. It’s suggested that their workspace remain tidy, but also quiet, as they need to focus and may find themselves working long hours on the same project. A Computer Scientist may have a cubicle or office all to themselves or work in an open-concept office space. Many work from home as well, but even so, Computer Scientists will have to collaborate with others occasionally. Regardless of the setting, it’s important to have a space dedicated to work as it helps you establish a routine, increase self-discipline, and maintain productivity.

9 AM:

The most important tasks a Computer Scientist might do at the start of the day will vary depending on the industry, but some include setting up their office space, checking messages, and reviewing their to-do lists and project management tools. They will typically check emails, Slack, or Teams messages to see what they missed between yesterday and today. Their messages may come from other team members or clients, so it is important to be thorough. Then, they may check certain task management tools like Jira to see the most updated status of ongoing projects. This will enable them to set their pace for the day and prioritize tasks appropriately. Overall, doing these tasks can set the tone for the rest of the day and help Computer Scientists understand their objectives.

11 AM:

By mid-morning, a Computer Scientist might shift focus on specific projects and complete tasks such as developing software, optimizing existing systems, and analyzing large datasets. The average Computer Scientist will segment their day into different sections, where they focus on accomplishing tasks and finishing projects as efficiently as possible. They’ll typically write code, test previously deployed models, and design new applications, models, or projects. They will likely have a few discussions with other team members and collaborate on new ideas and solutions for problems.

2 PM:

After the lunchtime lull, a Computer Scientist will still be hard at work. They will likely shift focus to new projects or finish up a current one. This may include refining and editing algorithms so they work at maximum capacity. Likewise, they’ll receive feedback from their colleagues or code reviewers to see what needs modification. Specific tools they may use include GitHub for version control, which lets Computer Scientists review and integrate feedback into their projects. Once they receive feedback, they’ll examine their work and make adjustments as necessary. Additionally, they may prepare for client presentations or share their findings and progress with colleagues, clients, or stakeholders.

5 PM:

To wrap up the work day, a Computer Scientist will review what they’ve accomplished, update their to-do list for the next work day, and set up their station ahead of time. This may include documenting any significant updates to the projects, sending out last-minute communications, and establishing a timeline to work alongside. Staying organized and on-task throughout the day ensures that Computer Scientists have a little wiggle room at the end of the day just to prepare, refocus, and prepare. This can help them progress smoothly from day to day and mitigate any disturbances to their workflow.

After Work

Some situations call for overtime, but not always. For instance, overtime might be required if there is a time-sensitive project that calls for it. A Computer Scientist may have to stay late to fix urgent issues or finish up projects before quickly approaching deadlines. In these rare circumstances, there will likely be an “all hands on deck” approach, where Computer Scientists and other professionals will work together to meet their project goals. Otherwise, Computer Scientists have a relatively preferable life-work balance. Once the workday ends, they may engage in professional development activities, such as reading online articles, attending seminars, and even enrolling in on-demand or live classes and bootcamps to enhance their skills. Of course, because computer science careers are so flexible and generally fairly lucrative, a Computer Scientist will have ample time to unwind and enjoy time with family and friends. 

Learn the Skills to Become a Computer Scientist at Noble Desktop

The Noble Desktop Data Science Certificate enables students to learn everything related to entering the field of data science. The curriculum offers a range of topics such as data science, statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualization. Students will learn Python, R, and SQL as well as develop skills relevant to predictive models and data visualization software. Through hands-on projects, students will be able to build a professional portfolio and feel more confident using their skills in their future workplace. This program is designed to provide a strong foundation in data science and help students prepare for the ever-growing data science field.

Likewise, Noble Desktop offers a Python for Data Science Bootcamp where students will learn how to utilize Python for data science, including everything from data manipulation, analysis, and visualization, to working with libraries such as Pandas, NumPy, and Matplotlib. Students will use data science tools like Jupyter Notebooks and complete projects that demonstrate their Python and data science skills. The bootcamp is designed for students who want to gain professional-level skills and experience hands-on projects that give them insight into the field.

If you want to explore JavaScript over Python, Noble Desktop also offers a JavaScript Programming Bootcamp. Here, you can explore the various uses of JavaScript and learn its unique syntax, functions, and programming abilities. Students will learn how to write and debug code as well as apply JavaScript concepts to real-world scenarios, like developing websites, manipulating Document Object Models, and handling different browser elements. Understanding how to use JavaScript can lead to creating responsive and unique web pages that operate at maximum capacity. This course can help you build a solid foundation that can be built upon for years to come.