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Research Computing Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Research Computing Specialist information

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$34K

$43.6K

$59.5K

How much do research computing specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for research computing specialist in the United States is $43,638.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $47,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Research Computing Specialists?

Research Computing Specialists are professionals who provide technical support and expertise to researchers using advanced computing resources. They help design, implement, and optimize computational workflows, often working with high-performance computing systems, data management tools, and specialized software. Their role bridges the gap between IT and research by ensuring scientists have the computational infrastructure and guidance needed for complex data analysis, simulations, and other research tasks. Additionally, they may offer training, troubleshoot issues, and contribute to the development of new research technologies.

How do Research Computing Specialists typically collaborate with researchers to support scientific projects?

Research Computing Specialists work closely with researchers by providing technical expertise on high-performance computing (HPC), data management, and software optimization. They often participate in project planning meetings to understand research goals, recommend appropriate computational resources, and assist with troubleshooting complex technical issues. This collaborative environment requires strong communication skills and the ability to translate technical concepts for users with varying levels of computing experience. Over time, successful specialists may take on larger projects or leadership roles, expanding their impact across research teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Research Computing Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Research Computing Specialist, you need expertise in scientific programming, high-performance computing (HPC), and data management, often backed by a degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with HPC clusters, Linux operating systems, and scripting languages such as Python or Bash is typically required, along with knowledge of job schedulers and version control systems. Strong problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and a collaborative mindset help you effectively support researchers and troubleshoot computing challenges. These competencies are crucial for enabling advanced research, optimizing computational resources, and facilitating scientific discovery.

What is the difference between Research Computing Specialist vs Data Analyst?

AspectResearch Computing SpecialistData Analyst
CredentialsBachelor’s or Master’s in Computer Science, IT, or related fieldsBachelor’s or Master’s in Statistics, Data Science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, research institutionsBusiness, healthcare, finance, or government sectors
Employer & IndustryAcademic and research organizationsVarious industries including finance, healthcare, and marketing

While both roles involve data handling and technical skills, a Research Computing Specialist primarily supports research infrastructure, high-performance computing, and research data management. In contrast, a Data Analyst focuses on analyzing data to generate insights for decision-making. The roles often overlap in technical skills but differ in their core focus and work environment.

More about Research Computing Specialist jobs
Research Support Specialist

Research Support Specialist

Stony Brook University

Southampton, NY • On-site

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Stony Brook University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

215th of 535 rated colleges and universities


Job description

 

Required Qualifications (as evidenced by attached resume): 
Bachelor's Degree (foreign equivalent or higher). SCUBA certified, with scientific diving experience (as a student or professional). Experience in Biology, Marine Science, or marine-related fields. Experience operating a small boat. Experience organizing and analyzing large data sets. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel. Must have, keep and maintain the appropriate valid NYS Driver's License; have a motor vehicle record which is free from major violations or a pattern of repeat violations. (***Out-of-State Applicants, see "Special Notes").
Preferred Qualifications: 
Master's Degree (foreign equivalent or higher) in marine science or related field. AAUS scientific diving certification. Experience working with bivalves and/or seaweeds. Experience conducting benthic surveys of marine habitats using SCUBA. Experience synthesizing large data sets into figures and reports. Working knowledge of statistical analyses.
Brief Description of Duties: 
The Research Support Specialist will work under the direction of Principal Investigator, Dr. Christopher Gobler and Associate Director, Michael Doall. The position will include extensive field work, including benthic surveys using SCUBA, collection of seaweed and shellfish samples from boats, and collection of water samples. The Research Support Specialist will also be responsible for processing field samples and conducting a variety of laboratory analyses, and inputting, managing, analyzing the associated data using statistics, and working on reports.

Duties:

  • Assist with benthic field surveys with SCUBA.

  • Assist with field sampling (water, shellfish, seaweed).

  • Assist with field samples (bivalve condition and gonad index, dissolved nutrient and chlorophyll samples).

  • Assist with statistical analyses and report writing.

  • Assistant in conducting experiments and analyses.

  • Other duties as assigned.

Special Notes:
The Research Foundation of SUNY is a private educational corporation. Employment is subject to the Research policies and procedures, sponsor guidelines and the availability of funding. FLSA Non Exempt position, eligible for the overtime provisions of the FLSA.
For this position, we are unable to sponsor candidates for work visas.
***Out-of-State Applicants: Please note as a condition of employment and in order for this position to be tendered, the successful incumbent will be required to provide evidence of a valid license and driving abstract from the state issuing the license within five business days of a conditional offer and must obtain a NYS driver's license within 30 days of start date.
Evening and weekend work will be required at times.
Resume/CV and cover letter should be included with the online application.

Stony Brook University is committed to excellence in diversity and the creation of an inclusive learning and working environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status and all other protected classes under federal or state laws.

If you need a disability-related accommodation, please call the university Office of Equity and Access (OEA) at (631) 632-6280 or visit OEA.

In accordance with the Title II Crime Awareness and Security Act a copy of our crime statistics can be viewed here.


Visit our WHY WORK HERE page to learn about the total rewards we offer.

SUNY Research Foundation: A Great Place to Work.

The starting salary range (or hiring range) to be offered for this position is noted below, it represents SBU's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.
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