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What are the Different Information Science Jobs?

D. Jeffress
D. Jeffress

Information science is a unique field that is dedicated to analyzing, storing, retrieving, and managing information in various forms. Industries as diverse as corporate business, libraries, health care, and education all require knowledgeable information science professionals to maintain reliable information and communication networks. There are many different information science jobs available to skilled, technology-minded individuals. A qualified person can become a computer scientist, telecommunications specialist, network analyst, or technology consultant, among many other information science positions.

Computer scientists hold information science jobs in various settings. Many professionals hold positions at hardware and software development firms, telecommunications companies, private research institutions, and universities. Computer scientists research and design new equipment and programs designed to organize and store information. They may try to improve current technology or explore theoretical ideas to advance information science. Innovations in data storage devices, user-friendly computer programs, and virtual reality can all be attributed to computer scientists in information science jobs.

Scientist with beakers
Scientist with beakers

The telecommunications industry is concerned with the transfer of information through computers, telephones, and televisions. Information science professionals in the industry engineer new forms of communication and transmission, such as fiber optic technology. They improve the safety and efficiency of email servers and Internet provider systems, and design databases to store information about a company's clients and service records.

Network analysts hold a large percentage of information science jobs in the business world. A professional might work for a private corporation, educational institution, health care facility, or another type of organization that relies on electronic records and communication. A network analyst installs, updates, and troubleshoots communications systems to ensure that networks are safe, reliable, and easy to navigate. He or she usually performs routine maintenance on network applications as well as helps people who have difficulty accessing information.

When individuals or organizations wish to implement new information systems, they often call upon professional technology consultants. A technology consultant is a businessperson who can provide clients with the most up-to-date information about computer and network innovations, and help them choose the most appropriate options. Some technology consultants are self-employed and contract their services to various clients, though the majority of professionals work for consulting firms and large private corporations.

People who are interested in obtaining information science jobs should become very familiar with computer applications, programming, and hardware. Most employers prefer to hire individuals who hold at least bachelor's degrees in information science, computer science, or other technology-related fields. Professionals with strong problem solving and personal communication skills are often rewarded with productive, meaningful information science jobs.

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      Scientist with beakers