Business Economist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago is seeking a Business Economist to support monetary policy and outreach by gathering and sharing information about the regional economy and its key sub‑geographies and sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, automotive, and industrial cities. The role involves collaborating with policy professionals across the Chicago and Detroit offices, conducting research and analysis on regional economic conditions, engaging with business and community leaders, supporting surveys and roundtables, and translating on‑the‑ground economic perspectives into insights for policymakers.

• Supports planning and facilitation of district economic roundtables (approximately 32 per year), Advisory Council meetings, and conferences, including logistics coordination, participant recruitment and outreach, and materials preparation.
• Supports survey programs including the quarterly Agricultural Land Values and Credit Conditions Survey and the monthly Chicago Fed Survey of Economic Conditions (CFSEC) by recruiting and managing survey participants, assisting with data collection, and conducting preliminary analysis.
• Gathers economic intelligence through phone and email outreach to business contacts and other constituents.
• Conducts site visits to businesses and communities, documenting observations and maintaining contact records.
• Contributes to the preparation of the Seventh District’s section of the Beige Book by summarizing roundtable notes, analyzing survey results, and drafting sections under guidance of senior team members.
• Assists in preparing contact engagement summaries and sector updates for FOMC preparation materials based on economic intelligence gathered from multiple sources.
• Contributes content to Fed publications and helps maintain regional content on the website.
• Supports preparation of briefing materials related to Bank senior leadership meetings around the district and to Detroit Board of Directors meetings.
• Conducts research on topics relevant to the district economy under guidance of senior professionals.
• Develops analytical skills by supporting economic presentations and outreach to community groups, educational institutions, and local organizations.
• Develops knowledge of key sectors of the regional economy such as manufacturing, automotive, agricultural conditions, regional growth, or real estate markets.

• Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Business, Agricultural Economics, Finance, or a related field required; Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum two years of work experience in research, analysis, business, or a related field.
• Interest in regional economics, business trends, and public policy, and desire to develop deep expertise in one or more economic sectors.
• Knowledge of economic concepts and analytical methods.
• Knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methods and statistical software.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with ability to explain economic information clearly.
• Good interpersonal skills with ability to interact professionally with diverse constituents.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Experience with or interest in agricultural sectors, including crop production, dairy, livestock, or rural economies, a plus.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship now or in the future. The position has additional screening requirements due to the information accessed while performing the job. These screenings may be initiated at the time of offer acceptance and can take approximately two months to be completed. Screening covers education/employment verification, criminal history, credit history, and reference checks for individuals who know the applicant well.

Expected starting salary range for the position of Business Economist: $130,000 to $169,700 annually, plus annual performance‑based discretionary bonuses.

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, prescription drug coverage, 401(k) savings plan, retirement plan, paid time off, transit benefit, onsite gym, and subsidized cafeteria.
• Learning environment with opportunities to gain new skills and grow your career.
• Mentorship from experienced economists and policy professionals.
• Unique opportunity to contribute to monetary policy and work on issues of national and regional economic importance.
• Exposure to diverse industries and sectors across the Seventh Federal Reserve District.
• Access to information about benefits at https://www.chicagofed.org/careers/thebenefits.

We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or expression, or veteran status. The Federal Reserve Banks are committed to compliance with applicable law and to an environment where employees are valued for their differences.