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Computer Scientist Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Abbott

Scientist Technical Support

Lake Forest, IL

The Opportunity The Scientist Technical Support role works out of our Lake Forest, IL (in Conway Park) location in the Core Lab Diagnostics Business Unit. Our diagnostic solutions are used in ...

New

Abbott

Scientist Technical Support

Lake Forest, IL

The Opportunity The Scientist Technical Support role works out of our Lake Forest, IL (in Conway Park) location in the Core Lab Diagnostics Business Unit. Our diagnostic solutions are used in ...

New

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsComputer Scientist JobsComputer Scientist Jobs in Chicago, IL

Computer Scientist information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$52.1K

$114.8K

$141.8K

How much do computer scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer scientist in Chicago, IL is $114,790.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,400.00 and $141,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Computer Scientist, you need a strong background in mathematics, programming, and algorithm design, usually supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with programming languages (such as Python, Java, C++), development tools, and version control systems is typically required, along with knowledge of specialized software or frameworks relevant to your area. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that help you collaborate and present complex ideas clearly. These skills and qualifications are important for developing innovative solutions, advancing technology, and working efficiently in multidisciplinary teams.

What are the jobs of a Computer Scientist?

A Computer Scientist designs, develops, and analyzes algorithms, software, and systems to solve complex problems. They often work in research, software development, data analysis, or cybersecurity, utilizing programming languages and computational theory. Their work may involve coding, testing, and collaborating with teams to create innovative technological solutions.

What are computer scientists?

Computer scientists are professionals who study the theory, design, development, and application of computer systems and software. They work on solving complex problems using algorithms, programming languages, and computational methods. Their work can range from developing new technologies, improving cybersecurity, creating software, to researching artificial intelligence and machine learning. Computer scientists are employed in various industries, including tech companies, research institutions, government agencies, and academia.

What Does a Computer Scientist Do?

Computer scientists solve problems using technology. They write and program software, create applications for mobile devices, and develop websites. Their primary objectives are to validate and to develop mathematical models capable of computer interaction between people and other computers. They do this by running computer programs and improving computer processes and performance. Beyond working within theoretical frameworks, computer scientists can also research and focus in areas such as data structure and algorithms, information and database theory, software engineering, numerical analysis, computational complexity theory, computer graphics, programming language theory, and computer vision.

What would a Computer Scientist do?

A Computer Scientist researches, develops, and applies algorithms, software, and hardware systems to solve complex problems. They often work in areas such as programming, data analysis, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity, using tools like programming languages and development environments. The role typically requires strong analytical skills and knowledge of computer theory and programming.

How do computer scientists typically collaborate with other departments within an organization?

Computer scientists often work closely with teams from engineering, product management, data analytics, and IT to design, implement, and optimize technological solutions. Collaboration may involve participating in cross-functional meetings, providing technical expertise to inform business decisions, and integrating software systems with other platforms. Effective communication and teamwork are key, as computer scientists must translate complex technical concepts into actionable insights for non-technical colleagues. This collaborative environment not only broadens your professional network but also enhances your problem-solving skills through exposure to diverse perspectives.

What jobs can you do with computer science?

A computer scientist can work in roles such as software developer, data analyst, systems analyst, cybersecurity specialist, machine learning engineer, and research scientist. These positions often require programming skills, knowledge of algorithms, and familiarity with tools like Python, Java, or SQL. Many roles are available in industries like technology, finance, healthcare, and government, with opportunities for both research and application-based work.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A computer scientist can potentially earn $10,000 a month through high-paying roles such as software engineering, data science, or cybersecurity, especially with specialized skills and experience. Many of these roles prioritize skills, certifications, and portfolio work over formal degrees, and remote or freelance work can also contribute to higher income levels.

What is the difference between Computer Scientist vs Software Engineer?

AspectComputer ScientistSoftware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in CS or related field; often advanced degreesBachelor's or higher in CS, Software Engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, R&D departmentsTech companies, software development firms, IT departments
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, tech companiesSoftware development companies, startups, large corporations
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, career paths, and skillsJob requirements, responsibilities, and career growth

Computer Scientists focus on theoretical foundations, algorithms, and research, often working in academia or R&D. Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications in industry settings. While both roles require strong programming skills and a background in computer science, their work environments and primary objectives differ.

More about Computer Scientist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Scientist jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Computer Scientist jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Computer Scientist jobs in Chicago, IL? For Computer Scientist jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Scientist jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Scientist jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Computer Scientist jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Computer Scientist job openings:
Computer Scientist jobs near you
Computer Scientist/AI

Computer Scientist/AI

Argonne National Laboratory

Lemont, IL • On-site, Remote

$94K - $147K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

The Argonne Leadership Computing Facility's (ALCF) mission is to accelerate major scientific discoveries and engineering breakthroughs for humanity by designing and providing world-leading computing facilities in partnership with the computational science community. We help researchers solve some of the world's largest and most complex problems with our unique combination of supercomputing resources and computational science expertise.

The ALCF has an opening for a Computer Scientist working to enable AI for science, specifically targeting agentic workflows involving diverse science domains, diverse data, and high-performance computing. This position entails building agentic systems that plan and execute scientific workflows on ALCF systems, and developing services/APIs that allow AI models to interact with simulations, data, and job schedulers. These solutions will be required to be highly usable and stable for users, but also be highly adaptable to keep pace with the rapidly-evolving state of AI and science. We welcome candidates with strengths in AI/ML, HPC systems, or scientific workflows, with opportunities to grow across areas.

The successful candidate will join the Data Services and Workflows group, which focuses on scientific workflows that combine large-scale data, simulations, analysis, and AI. The group--and this position-- involves work in a highly collaborative environment involving science application teams, academia and industry, as well as other national labs and agencies, to solve some of the world's largest and most complex problems in science and engineering. The candidate will engage with science application teams and contribute to broader scientific initiatives.

Position Requirements

Required skills and qualifications:

  • RD2: Bachelor's and 5+ years of experience or a Masters and 3+ years of experience or a PhD and 0+ years of experience
  • Educational background in computer science, computational science, a physical science, engineering, or related field
  • Comprehensive experience programming in one or more languages such as Python, C/C++
  • Experience with at least one AI framework (e.g. PyTorch)
  • Experience with large language models, large language model frameworks, agentic frameworks
  • Ability to create, maintain, and support high-quality software is essential
  • Work with and contribute to domain-specific software and services
  • Experience with version control software such as git
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
  • Effective written and oral communications skills
  • Ability to model Argonne's core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork

Preferred skills and qualifications:

  • Experience with complex, large-scale scientific workflows
  • Experience with running simulations or AI workflows on supercomputers

This position qualifies as "Hybrid Remote Work - Occasionally Onsite": which applies to employees typically working more than 60% of their time remotely.

Job Family

Research Development (RD)

Job Profile

Computer Science 2

Worker Type

Regular

Time Type

Full timeThe expected hiring range for this position is $94,486.00 - $147,398.94.

Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.

Click here to view Argonne employee benefits!

As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.

Argonne employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation in the application phase for review by Argonne's Legal Department.

All Argonne offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes an assessment of criminal conviction history conducted on an individualized and case-by-case basis. Please be advised that Argonne positions require upon hire (or may require in the future) for the individual be to obtain a government access authorization that involves additional background check requirements. Failure to obtain or maintain such government access authorization could result in the withdrawal of a job offer or future termination of employment.

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