Working Remotely in Computer Science

Remote jobs in computer science are appealing for their many benefits, including the ability to work from anywhere. Aspiring tech and IT professionals can pursue a computer science degree online to qualify for lucrative careers in booming industries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), professionals in computer and IT occupations earned a median annual salary of $91,250 in May 2020.

Additionally, between 2020 and 2030, the BLS projects 13% growth for such occupations, many of which are remote computer science jobs. Computer programmers, systems analysts, and web developers, for example, can work from anywhere and earn salaries higher than $100,000 per year. This guide explores the many perks of remote computer science jobs.

Remote jobs are especially common in computer science fields because work like computer programming and web development can be completed from anywhere with internet access.

As so many professionals work remotely in computer science and IT, the minimum education requirements are typically the same — a bachelor’s or master’s degree — regardless of where the work is performed.

Beyond the education requirements, employers may require or prefer remote workers with experience in computer science. Recent graduates may qualify for entry-level opportunities. However, some employers seek candidates with advanced expertise in computer science and proven work-from-home skills, emphasizing communication and time management.

Some alternative education options cater to professionals searching for a faster pathway to a career. Programs such as online coding bootcamps typically offer accelerated coursework and affordable tuition rates. These alternative programs also develop the soft skills conducive to remote work in computer science, including problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaborative project management.

A wide variety of occupations offer remote work in computer science. Remote workers enjoy the usual perks of computer and IT jobs, including competitive salaries and high job growth, with the additional benefit of working from wherever they choose. Because most computer science work can be performed independently, tech companies are leaders among remote employers.

Computer science careers often pay much higher salaries than average. Common occupations in this field include computer support specialists, computer programmers, and web developers, who earned median salaries between $55,000 and $90,000 per year in May 2020, according to the BLS. The organization projects computer and IT jobs will grow 13% between 2020 and 2030.

Professionals with the right skills can pursue many different remote jobs in computer science. With so many tech professionals coveting remote work, computer scientists must take steps to set themselves apart from competitors in their respective areas of expertise. Job seekers should start by identifying the tech industry or field they prefer.

Next, professionals should ensure they possess the technical and soft skills needed for tech jobs. Generally, computer scientists possess programming, math, and coding skills. Additionally, remote employers look for candidates with advanced communication skills, the ability to self-motivate, and time-management expertise.

Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor rank among the most popular sites for job seekers, each featuring a search filter specifically for remote computer and IT jobs. Some job sites like FlexJobs cater solely to remote workers in all fields. Professionals can also post their resumes and portfolios on freelance marketplaces like UpWork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.com.

For many remote professionals, the opportunity to work from home is its own reward; however, they can further optimize their experience with a few simple considerations. Professionals who aspire to work from home sometimes fail to match reality to their expectations.

For remote workers, particularly in computer science, the right equipment, environment, time-management tools, and work-life balance are key to maximizing productivity and job satisfaction.

Successful remote work in computer science requires the right equipment and environment. Professionals may prefer a desktop or laptop. They often need a specific type of Mac or PC and multiple monitors to perform daily tasks. All remote workers in computer science need a reliable internet connection.

Professionals should also consider an adjustable desk, anti-fatigue mat, and a comfortable office chair, as remote work in computer science typically requires long hours spent in front of the computer screen. Workers may need additional equipment such as noise-canceling headphones, a wireless headset, and a reliable web camera for virtual meetings.

Time management is crucial to productivity in any field, but especially for remote workers in computer science. Mastering time management is what enables computer science workers to turn their aspirations for a work-from-home job into reality. Daily tasks for these workers may include handling multiple tech support calls or meeting with multiple clients at a time. Professionals must be able to balance work and home life.

Mental health and maintaining a work-life balance are important for any worker; however, remote computer science professionals require extra motivation to take care of themselves outside of a peer-oriented environment. Remote workers should consider virtual methods of regularly checking in with colleagues to build a support system for mental health.

Also make sure to take regular breaks from your computer during the work day to eat, go for a walk, and take care of yourself. Additionally, scheduling specific times for work and non-work activities is critical to balancing obligations.