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Computer Science Professor Jobs in Worcester, MA

Computer Science Professor information

See Worcester, MA salary details

$11K

$126.3K

$170.6K

How much do computer science professor jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer science professor in Worcester, MA is $126,336.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,800.00 and $152,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Computer Science Professor Do?

A computer science professor teaches at a technical college or university. You create and teach courses in computer science (CS) or related programming or technology subjects. In this career, you prepare the syllabus for each class, deliver lectures and instructions, and use exams and quizzes to assess the performance of students. In many computer science classes, your responsibilities include allowing students to practice the subject matter in a computer lab. You facilitate this practice and offer guidance during lab sessions. In addition to your teaching duties, you sometimes give academic or career advice to students in CS degree programs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Computer Science Professor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computer Science Professor, you need an advanced degree in computer science or a related field, strong research background, and expertise in core topics like algorithms, programming, and systems. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), programming environments, and publication platforms is typically required, along with a record of scholarly publication and potentially relevant certifications. Excellent communication, mentorship, and curriculum development skills help foster student engagement and support academic growth. These skills and qualifications are vital for delivering high-quality instruction, advancing research, and contributing to the academic community.

What are some common challenges faced by Computer Science Professors in balancing teaching, research, and administrative responsibilities?

Computer Science Professors often juggle multiple responsibilities, including delivering lectures, guiding student projects, conducting original research, publishing papers, and participating in departmental or university committees. Balancing these can be challenging, especially during peak periods like exam seasons or major research deadlines. Effective time management and prioritization are crucial, as is seeking support from colleagues and administrative staff. Many professors also find it helpful to establish a clear schedule and set boundaries to maintain productivity and job satisfaction.

What is the difference between Computer Science Professor vs Software Developer?

AspectComputer Science ProfessorSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsTypically a Ph.D. in Computer Science or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Computer Science or related field; certifications optional
Work EnvironmentAcademic institutions, research labs, universitiesCorporate offices, tech companies, startups
Industry UsageResearch, teaching, academic publishingSoftware development, product creation, coding
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both roles involve computer science knowledge, a Computer Science Professor primarily focuses on teaching, research, and academic publishing, often requiring a Ph.D. and working in educational institutions. In contrast, a Software Developer applies programming skills to create software products in corporate or startup environments, typically with a bachelor's or master's degree. The roles differ in work environment, responsibilities, and career paths but share foundational computer science expertise.

What are popular job titles related to Computer Science Professor jobs in Worcester, MA? For Computer Science Professor jobs in Worcester, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Worcester, MA are hiring for Computer Science Professor jobs? Cities near Worcester, MA with the most Computer Science Professor job openings:
Infographic showing various Computer Science Professor job openings in Worcester, MA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 13% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 81% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,336 per year, or $60.7 per hour.

Assistant Research Professor

Worcester Polytech

Worcester, MA

$70K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

JOB TITLE

Assistant Research Professor

LOCATION

Worcester

DEPARTMENT NAME

Chemical Engineering

DIVISION NAME

Worcester Polytechnic Institute - WPI

JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

We are seeking a highly motivated and qualified Assistant Research Professor to join the Department of Chemical Engineering at WPI. The successful candidate will conduct cutting-edge computational research aimed at developing machine learning algorithms to enhance multi-scale simulations in catalysis. This work will contribute to next-generation technologies involving plasma catalysis, field-enhanced catalysis, electrocatalysis, and materials science. The position offers an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of machine learning and kinetics in advanced catalytic processes. In addition to research, the candidate will contribute to proposal development, lead manuscript preparation and publication efforts, mentor graduate and undergraduate students, manage day-to-day laboratory operations, and maintain and expand computational resources to support ongoing research activities.
The initial appointment is for 12 months, with potential for renewal based on performance and funding availability.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Responsibilities:

  • Develop and apply multi-scale simulation frameworks for complex catalytic systems.
  • Design and implement generalizable machine learning algorithms (e.g., graph neural networks) and large language model to accelerate and couple multi-scale simulations in catalysis.
  • Lead and contribute to proposal development and manuscript preparation, including conducting comprehensive literature reviews and disseminating research outcomes.
  • Present research findings at scientific meetings and conferences, and actively engage with the broader research community.
  • Mentor and supervise graduate and undergraduate students, fostering a collaborative and productive research environment.
  • Manage day-to-day laboratory operations and coordinate research activities within the group.
  • Maintain and expand computational resources, including high-performance computing workflows and data infrastructure, to support ongoing research efforts.
  • Perform additional related duties as assigned by the principal investigator.

Requirements:

  • Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Computer Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a closely related field.
  • Strong background in multi-scale simulations.
  • Proficiency in machine learning techniques, particularly in scientific applications.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
  • Prior experience mentoring students and a track record of scholarly publications is desirable.

Compensation:

Salary: $70,000. WPI's benefits package includes a robust retirement match, wellness perks, tuition assistance and more!

FLSA STATUS

United States of America (Exempt)

WPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status,or disability. It seeks individuals from all backgrounds and experiences who will contribute to a culture of creativity, collaboration, inclusion, problem solving, innovation, high performance, and change making.It is committed to maintaining a campus environment free of harassment and discrimination.