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Development Economics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Development Economics, Labor Economics, or Health Economics. * Evidence of the ability to be an effective instructor. * Evidence of clear and effective communication skills. * A demonstrated record ...

SSD Development Economics Center: Staff and Temporary Employees The Development Innovation Lab at the University of Chicago uses the tools of economics to develop innovations with the potential to ...

Department SSD Development Economics Center: Staff and Temporary Employees About the Department The Development Innovation Lab at the University of Chicago uses the tools of economics to develop ...

Research Lead

Hyde Park, VT · On-site

$73K - $95K/yr

Department SSD Development Economics Center: Staff and Temporary Employees About the Department The Development Innovation Lab at the University of Chicago uses the tools of economics to develop ...

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Development Economics information

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How much do development economics jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for development economics in the United States is $103,020.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $124,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Development Economist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Development Economist, you need strong analytical skills, a solid background in economics or related fields (often with a master's or PhD), and proficiency in quantitative research methods. Familiarity with statistical software such as STATA, R, or Python, and experience with econometric modeling are typically required. Excellent communication, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are essential for designing effective policy solutions, conducting impactful research, and driving sustainable development outcomes.

What is the difference between Development Economics vs Economic Analyst?

AspectDevelopment EconomicsEconomic Analyst
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in Economics or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Economics or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, NGOs, government agenciesFinancial firms, government departments, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageFocuses on global development, poverty reduction, policy analysisAnalyzes economic data, market trends, and forecasts

Development Economics and Economic Analyst roles share a foundation in economic theory and data analysis. However, Development Economics emphasizes global development issues, policy impact, and poverty alleviation, often requiring advanced degrees. Economic Analysts typically focus on market trends, financial data, and economic forecasting within corporate or government settings. Both careers involve data analysis and economic research but serve different industry needs and objectives.

What is a job in economic development?

A job in economic development involves working to improve the economic well-being of communities by promoting growth, attracting investment, and creating jobs. Roles often require skills in policy analysis, data analysis, and project management, and may involve collaboration with government agencies, nonprofits, or private sector organizations.

What jobs does economic development lead to?

Economic development can lead to jobs in sectors such as public policy, urban planning, project management, and international development. Roles often involve analyzing economic data, designing development programs, and working with government agencies, NGOs, or private firms to promote growth and sustainability.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Development Economics, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Development Economics often face challenges such as limited access to reliable data, the complexity of measuring impact in diverse socio-economic environments, and navigating differing stakeholder priorities. Addressing these challenges requires strong analytical skills, adaptability, and effective collaboration with local partners, governments, and NGOs. Building relationships with stakeholders and maintaining cultural sensitivity are also crucial for designing and implementing successful development interventions.

What is development economics?

Development economics is a branch of economics that focuses on improving the economic well-being and quality of life in developing countries. It studies factors such as poverty, inequality, education, health, and sustainable economic growth. Development economists analyze policies and strategies that can help raise living standards, promote economic growth, and reduce poverty. They often work with governments, international organizations, and NGOs to design and evaluate programs that support development.

What is the role of development economics?

Development economics is a field that analyzes economic growth and development in low- and middle-income countries. Professionals in this area assess policies, design programs, and use data analysis to promote sustainable economic progress and reduce poverty. Skills in research, data analysis, and understanding of economic theories are essential for development economists.

What does a development economist do?

A development economist analyzes economic factors that influence the growth and development of countries or regions. They study issues such as poverty, inequality, and policy impacts, often using data analysis and economic models to inform decision-making and promote sustainable development. Strong research skills and knowledge of economic theories are essential in this role.
More about Development Economics jobs
What cities are hiring for Development Economics jobs? Cities with the most Development Economics job openings:
What states have the most Development Economics jobs? States with the most job openings for Development Economics jobs include:
Infographic showing various Development Economics job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,020 per year, or $49.5 per hour.
Open-rank Faculty Position in Sustainable Development Economics

Open-rank Faculty Position in Sustainable Development Economics

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


University Of Michigan rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 140 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 537 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description
Open-rank Faculty Position in Sustainable Development Economics
School for Environment and Sustainability
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
The School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS) at the University of Michigan invites applicants for a full-time, nine-month, tenure-track, open-rank faculty position in Sustainable Development Economics. We seek a candidate whose teaching and research interests focus on development economics and policy analysis, with an emphasis on environment and/or sustainability. The candidate will primarily support teaching and advising in the Sustainability and Development Specialization at SEAS which has core foci in the areas of poverty and inequality analytics, governance and institutions, monitoring and evaluation of policies and programs, and transformation science. Importantly, we seek candidates who have interest in and commitment to using applied development economics and policy research designs and methods to contribute to solving real-world environment and sustainability challenges. This work can occur in any topical area, including but not limited to, food systems, health, water resources, urban sustainability, climate change, and land use. The successful candidate may work in any geographical region and use a variety of methodological approaches in their research and policy engagement. They will have demonstrated evidence of interdisciplinary scholarship and collaboration and connections with boundary organizations, policy actors, and/or civil society groups and organizations.
Priority will be given to applicants whose research programs complement or align with one or more current research strengths in SEAS (e.g., geospatial science, food systems, environmental justice, sustainable systems), or who can contribute to further developing cross-unit areas of inquiry and collaboration including global health equity, urban sustainability, decarbonization, demographic transitions, and nature-based solutions. The University of Michigan has a robust and active development economics community; information about our community of scholars is found at https://devecon.umich.edu/.
Qualifications
Candidates must have a Ph.D. in economics, applied economics, political science, public policy, sustainability sciences, geography, or a related field. Candidates must have a strong record of scholarly publication, evidence of teaching potential in a multidisciplinary setting, experience with policy and/or stakeholder engagement, as well as activities demonstrating a potential for and/or trajectory towards national and international recognition.
The successful candidate will be expected to:
1) Develop a widely recognized research program that attracts external funding and contributes to the interdisciplinary mission of the school;
2) Support SEAS' teaching mission at both graduate and undergraduate levels, including mentoring and supervising doctoral and master's students and leading master's case based projects
3) Contribute to the stewardship of SEAS, the University, relevant professions, and society through service, collaboration, and engagement.
Application Instructions
To apply, submit application materials in Interfolio, via this link: http://apply.interfolio.com/157082
Applications should include (1) a cover letter (up to 2 pages, single-spaced); (2) CV; (3) a concise personal statement describing your vision and plans for research, teaching, and engagement (up to 5 pages, single space); (4) a statement that showcases a demonstrated commitment to diversity efforts (up to 1 page, single spaced), and (5) a list of three names of academic references with contact information.
Employment will require both a criminal background check and an institutional reference check regarding any misconduct. Candidates will be required to submit a self-disclosure form as well as an authorization to release information form.
Review of applications will begin December 1, 2024 and continue until the position is filled. SEAS hopes to appoint a faculty member to this position to begin Fall 2025.
About SEAS
SEAS' mission is to contribute to the protection of the Earth's resources and the achievement of a sustainable and just society. The school contributes new scientific knowledge, visionary leadership, and trained professionals toward that end. The faculty of the school are diverse, with natural scientists, social scientists, engineers, and designers working collaboratively in an integrative setting. A professional school set within a major research university, SEAS provides a model of interdisciplinary and applied research and a focal point of research, teaching and societal engagement on sustainability. The school focuses on key cross-cutting sustainability themes, including climate and energy; water; food systems; conservation and restoration; and cities, mobility, and built environment.
The School offers a Ph.D. as well as both research and professional M.S. degrees in seven specializations: behavior, education and communication; ecosystem science and management; environmental justice; environmental policy and planning; geospatial data science; sustainability and development; and sustainable systems. The School also offers a Master's degree in Landscape Architecture (M.L.A.). The student body includes over 500 M.S./M.L.A. and 60 doctoral students. SEAS also co-manages an undergraduate Program in the Environment and participates in dual master's degree programs with the Schools of Architecture and Urban Planning, Business, Engineering, Law, Public Health, and Public Policy. Additional information about the School can be found at www.seas.umich.edu.
At SEAS we are committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive and equitable environment that respects diverse experiences, promotes generous listening and communications, and discourages and restoratively responds to acts of discrimination, harassment, or injustice. Our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is deeply rooted in our values for a sustainable and just society.

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About University of Michigan

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The University of Michigan (U-M), based in Ann Arbor, MI, US, is one of America's most esteemed institutions in higher education. Established in 1817, it presides in the industry of education and research, providing a range of services including undergraduate, graduate, and professional education programs. Complementing this is an extensive research activity that has significantly contributed to various fields, from healthcare to engineering, humanities to sports. Upholding its mission "to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values", U-M consistently ranks among the top universities globally, a testament to its tradition of excellence in learning and research, and a deep commitment to innovation and discovery.

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Headquarters location

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Year founded

1817

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