What is the Career Outlook for Computer Science and Engineering?
Computer science and engineering are rapidly evolving fields, yet demand is still present. Jobs in computer and information technology are projected to grow about 13% through 2033, accelerating faster than the national average. Research-focused roles such as computer and information research scientists are expected to grow 26%, with median pay near $141K.
What Are the Top Computer Science and Engineering Jobs by Salary?
Cloud engineers, data scientists, and AI developers are among the most sought‑after roles. The rapid adoption of AI‑driven systems, expansion of cloud infrastructure, and growing cybersecurity needs are fueling demand across every sector. Data scientist positions alone are projected to grow 36%-42% over the next decade.
Salaries vary by role, location, and experience, with research‑oriented positions in computer science offering some of the highest median wages. To compare global and regional pay, resources such as SalaryExpert (global) and BLS state‑level data (United States) provide useful benchmarks.
What Companies Are Hiring People with Computer Science Degrees?
Many people immediately think of MAANG and Silicon Valley tech startups when thinking about what companies hire people with computer science degrees. However, these are not the only companies out there. In fact, some MAANG companies don’t rank in the top 10 companies hiring computer scientists.
MAANG: Meta, Apple, Amazon, Netflix, and Google.
Every computing professional has their dream company they’d like to work for. Here are a few additional recommendations for companies you can explore for your future role.
- Quantinuum- The largest integrated quantum computing company, developing hardware and software to solve complex global challenges.
- Advantest- A global leader in semiconductor test solutions, providing essential technology for chip development and high‑performance computing.
- Apple- A pioneer in consumer electronics and software, creating hardware and ecosystems that shape how billions interact with technology.
- AWS- The world’s most comprehensive cloud platform, powering applications and infrastructure across industries from startups to enterprises.
- Q-CTRL - A quantum technology company focused on stabilizing quantum systems and building tools for quantum computing and sensing.
- Quantum Machines - Specializes in quantum orchestration platforms that control and scale quantum computers for research and industry.
- Super - A hybrid quantum computing platform combining annealing, gate‑based quantum, and high‑performance computing to tackle complex scientific and industrial challenges.
- Cisco- Networking and cybersecurity giant with global demand for software engineers.
- Siemens- Major player in automation, digital industries, and AI‑driven industrial software.
- IBM- Legacy leader in AI, hybrid cloud, and enterprise solutions (still a top employer).
- Nvidia- Semiconductors, AI, and high‑performance computing powerhouse (beyond just hype, it’s core infrastructure).
- Oracle- Database and enterprise software leader with consistent demand for CS talent.
What Are Popular Fields in Computer Science and Engineering?
As technology continues to expand, so do the career opportunities in computer science and engineering. Whether you’re looking to start a fresh career or aim to change career paths, the Computer Society delivers the resources that help you navigate the landscape.
A professional association is a community of people with a shared career interest. It serves as a connection hub for a specific category of professionals, a central base for learning and growing together.
Students making their first forays into the workforce, seasoned professionals, and career changers alike use professional organizations to streamline their growth and build more lucrative careers. These organizations are catalysts for career improvement because they ensure you understand industry standards and recent developments, and because they also provide opportunities to earn certifications that strengthen your portfolio. In addition, they put you in touch with many professionals you can use to build a powerful network.
What Do I Get from Joining?
When you join a professional network, you gain access to unique opportunities to expand your knowledge and gain support and skills that set you apart from others in the job market.
Learning Opportunities
- SWEBOK, or the Software Engineering Body of Knowledge, which outlines what software engineers need to know to excel in their careers
- Computer Society Digital Library, a repository of more than one million articles specifically for computing professionals
- Career guides that condense all you need to know to plot your computing industry career
Career Support
- Mentorship programs that give you access to experienced professionals who can share their secrets to success and help you strategize your growth
- Career fairs at major conferences, such as the Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition Conference (CVPR), the IEEE International Conference on Quantum Computing and Engineering (QCE), and the IEEE Supercomputing Conference (SC)
Leadership Development
Career development and leadership development go hand in hand. Students just getting started, bootcamp graduates, and career switchers can all benefit from honing their leadership skills. With the IEEE Computer Society, you can hold leadership roles in your local chapter or initiatives like Computer Science Juniors.
How Can I Learn More About Joining the IEEE Computer Society?
Your next step is to take a closer look at the resources, events, and mentorship opportunities at the IEEE Computer Society membership benefits to fast-track your career growth.
Member Benefits
- Subscription to Computer and ComputingEdge Magazines
- Professionals get 18 CSDL downloads with membership
- Save 60% when you upgrade to unlimited access ($200+ value!)
- Students get Full CSDL access at no extra cost!
- Deep discounts on +189 IEEE CS Conferences
- Access to exclusive networking events at our most popular conferences, including mentorship programs and fun activities
- Unique opportunities to serve on IEEE CS boards and committees
- Exclusive opportunities for awards and student scholarships
- And more!
Tech News Topics
Soft Skills
Successful engineers are often skilled communicators. Companies have reported that developing soft skills like communication, empathy, and conflict resolution can vastly improve collaboration and work output. We’ve partnered with educators whose specialty is improving the soft skills of computing professionals.
- Build Your Career Webinars Interactive webinars are presented every month allowing live viewers to ask direct questions on their careers and necessary skills.
- Tech News for Career Development Subscribe and follow our blog specifically tailored to help you build your career. Read interviews from top tier professionals like Susan Landau.
- Workshops and Mentorships at Conferences An open secret within professionals is the extensive opportunities provided at conferences. Visit our calendar to find a conference in your field. These often contain essential workshops and mentorship programs everyone in their early career should take advantage of.
- Student & Young Professionals Activities Committee See what the committee is working on and join their micro-mentoring program. You can also check out more resources and benefits on the IEEE YP launch pad.
More Ways to Connect
& Advance
Now is the perfect time to prepare. We think you will find these resources helpful to plan your next big move.
- Search upcoming conferences in your field
- Create a profile on the IEEE CS Career Center and receive a complimentary resume review while you search open job listings.
