Webquest

Potential Occupations

Brady Ericksen (10552896)

Computer Hardware Engineer

Tasks: research, design, develop, and test

computer equipment such as chips, circuit boards, or routers. By solving complex problems in computer hardware, these engineers create rapid advances in computer technology.

Work Environment

Computer hardware engineers usually work in research laboratories that build and test various types of computer models. Most work in high-tech manufacturing firms. Some work in computer systems design firms, research and development firms, or for the federal government.

Most entry-level computer hardware engineers have a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, although a degree in electrical engineering generally is acceptable.

Training Required

Required Skills

Analytical Skills – analyzing complex equipment.

Creativity Critical-thinking Skills Problem Solving Skills Speaking Skills

Job Outlook

Employment of computer hardware engineers is expected to increase 9 percent from 2010 to 2020, slower than the average for all occupations. A limited number of engineers will be needed to meet the demand for new computer hardware because more of the innovation in computers now takes place with software than with hardware.

Pay

Median annual wage is around $98,810. Roughly the same in Utah vs the rest of

the US Working for the Federal Government

increases this average to $102,950. Most computer hardware engineers work

full time.

Why is it of interest?

This career is interesting to me because I already enjoy working with computers as a hobby I've put a lot of time and money into. I really enjoy learning how they work and I am able to work with them. If I were actually designing the hardware, I would be able to enjoy my work and be extremely productive.

Computer and Information Research Scientists

Tasks: invent and design new technology and

find new uses for existing technology. Study and solve complex problems in computing for business, science, medicine, and other uses.

Work Environment

Most computer and information research scientists work for computer systems design and related services firms, scientific research and development companies, or the federal government. Most work full time, and those who do independent research may have flexibility in their work schedules.

Most computer and information research scientists need a Ph.D. in computer science or a related subject, such as computer engineering.

For some computer scientist positions in the federal government, a bachelor’s degree in computer science is sufficient.

Training Required

Required Skills

Advanced Math Skills Analytical Skills Communication Skills Critical-thinking Skills Detail Oriented Ingenuity Logical Thinking

Job Outlook

Employment of computer and information research scientists is expected to grow by 19 percent from 2010 to 2020, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Computer scientists will be needed to develop the software that controls increasingly complicated electronics, as well as cloud storage, cyber security, and much more.

Pay

Median annual wage was most recently $100,660.

This is $30,000 more than the average computer occupation.

Most computer and information research scientists work full time.

Why is it of interest?

In addition to being interested in computing as a hobby as mentioned previously, I want to help achieve things for humankind's use. In this occupation, I would be inventing new technologies and discovering uses for those we already have. This plays to my skill set of self motivation, creativity, and logical thinking.

Microbiologist

Tasks: Microbiologists study the growth,

development, and other characteristics of microscopic organisms such as bacteria, algae, and fungi.

Planning, supervising, identifying, monitoring, preparing.

Work Environment

Typically work in laboratories and offices, where they conduct experiments and analyze the results. Microbiologists who work with dangerous organisms must follow strict safety procedures to avoid contamination. Most microbiologists work full time and keep regular hours.

A bachelor’s degree in microbiology or a closely related field is needed for entry-level microbiologist jobs. A Ph.D. is needed to carry out independent research and to work in colleges and universities.

Many microbiology Ph.D. holders begin their careers in a temporary postdoctoral research position, which typically lasts 2 to 3 years. During their postdoctoral appointment, they work with experienced scientists as they continue to learn about their specialties or develop a broader understanding of related areas of research.

Training Required

Required Skills Analytical Skills

Critical Thinking Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Mathematical Skills

Observation Skills

Perseverance

Problem-Solving Skills

Speaking Skills

Writing Skills

Job Outlook

Employment of microbiologists is projected to increase by 13 percent from 2010 to 2020, about as fast as the average for all occupations. More microbiologists will be needed to apply knowledge from basic research to develop biological products and processes that improve our lives.

The development of new medicines and treatments is expected to increase the demand for microbiologists in pharmaceutical and biotechnology research.

Pay

Most recent median annual wage was $65,920.

Slightly less in Utah Research with the Federal Government

has the highest pay rating again, with $94,960

Most microbiologists work full time and keep regular hours.

Why is it of interest?

I really enjoy the physical sciences, and biology in particular has always fascinated me. Understanding how the machinery of life works is just extremely inciting Working with microorganisms to help others and save lives would be something I would definitely be interested in.

Which one is the best looking for me?

Computer and Information Research Scientist

This seems like the career that best matches up with my skill set, because I am proficient at math and quick to learn, use analytical skills, my ingenuity and creativity, my critical thinking skills, I'm detail oriented and I actually pride myself on logical thinking.

The career outlook and pay look great and technology continues to inspire me.

References

http://jobs.utah.gov/jsp/wi/utalmis/occwagetitles.dohttp://jobs.utah.gov/jsp/wi/utalmis/occwagemain.do

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/microbiologists.htm#tab-1

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/computer-hardware-engineers.htm

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm