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Development Economist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Antioch

Economic Development Specialist

Antioch, CA · On-site

$105K - $127K/yr

The Economic Development Division (which is part of the Community & Economic Development Department) is responsible for the City's efforts to attract, retain, expand, and assist businesses in Antioch ...

Florida Legislature

Economist

Tallahassee, FL

The position has primary responsibility for evaluating state economic development programs and assists in the analysis of fiscal policy proposals. The position operates and maintains economic models ...

Florida Legislature

Economist

Tallahassee, FL · On-site

The position has primary responsibility for evaluating state economic development programs and assists in the analysis of fiscal policy proposals. The position operates and maintains economic models ...

ProSidian Consulting

Economist

Charlotte, NC · On-site

The Agency's Development Objective is to ensure safe and healthful working conditions in covered ... Economist Candidates shall work to support requirements for PR0001 Program Support and The ...

Son

Economist

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$27.96/hr

Economic Development - Agency 72 Location: Lincoln, NE Hiring Rate: $27.961 Job Posting: JR2026-00028405 Economist (Open) Applications No Longer Accepted On (If no date is displayed, job is posted as ...

Robert D. Niehaus, Inc.

Economist

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$33 - $47/hr

We are seeking an Economist that is a versatile problem solver who may perform analytical, managerial, client service, and business development tasks across various economic consulting projects. In ...

Robert D. Niehaus, Inc.

Economist

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$33 - $47/hr

We are seeking an Economist that is a versatile problem solver who may perform analytical, managerial, client service, and business development tasks across various economic consulting projects. In ...

Oakgov

College Intern - Economic Development

Waterford, MI · Hybrid

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

... development, economic vitality, and place-based initiatives. Gather, organize, and analyze community data, economic vitality statistics, building inventories, or other information to assist with ...

OBAN Corporation

Economist

Vienna, VA · On-site

$95 - $140/hr

Practical experience in applied economics and economic development preferred. * Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to interface effectively with all levels of the organization.

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How much do development economist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for development economist in the United States is $82,064.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a development economist?

To thrive as a Development Economist, you need advanced training in economics, strong quantitative and analytical skills, and typically a master's or PhD in economics or a related field. Proficiency with statistical software such as Stata, R, or Python, and familiarity with economic modeling and data analysis tools, are crucial. Strong communication, cultural sensitivity, and collaboration skills set successful development economists apart. These skills enable rigorous analysis of complex development challenges and effective communication of evidence-based recommendations to diverse stakeholders.

What are some common challenges faced by development economists when working on international projects?

Development Economists often encounter challenges such as navigating complex political environments, working with incomplete or unreliable data, and addressing cultural differences that impact project implementation. Collaborating with local stakeholders and government agencies can require strong communication and negotiation skills to align objectives and ensure sustainable outcomes. Additionally, balancing short-term goals with long-term development strategies is a frequent challenge, as is adapting to rapidly changing economic or social conditions in the regions they serve.

What is the difference between Development Economist vs Economic Analyst?

AspectDevelopment EconomistEconomic Analyst
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Economics or related fieldBachelor's or Master's degree in Economics or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, government agencies, NGOsFinancial firms, government departments, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageFocus on economic development, policy analysis in developing countriesFocus on market trends, financial data, economic forecasting

While both roles require strong economics backgrounds, Development Economists primarily focus on economic development and policy in developing regions, often working with governments and NGOs. Economic Analysts tend to analyze market data and financial trends, working mainly in finance and consulting sectors. The roles overlap in their use of economic theories and data analysis but differ in their focus and work environment.

How much do development economists make?

Development economists' salaries typically range from $60,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those in international organizations can earn higher, often exceeding $150,000. Many development economists also work in research, policy analysis, or consulting, requiring strong analytical skills and advanced degrees such as a Ph.D.

How to become a development economist?

To become a development economist, typically a candidate needs a bachelor's degree in economics, development studies, or a related field, followed by a master's or Ph.D. in economics or development economics. Strong analytical skills, proficiency in statistical software, and understanding of economic theories are essential, often complemented by research experience or internships in development projects.

Is economic development a good career path?

Development economists analyze economic growth and policies aimed at improving living standards in developing regions. The field offers opportunities in research, policy advising, and international organizations, often requiring strong analytical skills and advanced degrees. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in social impact and global issues.

What do development economists do?

Development economists analyze economic factors that influence the growth and development of countries and regions. They study issues such as poverty, inequality, and economic policies, often using data analysis and economic modeling to inform decision-making. Their work supports the design of strategies to improve living standards and promote sustainable development.
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Development Economist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Development Economist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,064 per year, or $39.5 per hour.

Senior Global Health Development Economist

Jobtailor

California, MO • On-site

$110 - $150/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Responsibilities
  • Serve as a bridge between data scientists, economists, and domain experts, translating across disciplines to ensure that analytical approaches are both methodologically rigorous and grounded in real-world development and global health challenges.
  • Design and implement quantitative analyses to address global health challenges in low and middle income countries, with a focus on predictive analytics, geospatial analyses, and causal design.
  • Apply machine learning and AI approaches, including predictive analytics, to real-world datasets (e.g., on AIR’s malaria early warning system and other geospatial or satellite data) to generate forward-looking insights and support innovative, data-driven solutions in global health and development contexts.
  • Develop and implement machine learning and predictive analytics workflows using Python (and, where appropriate, R) to analyze complex development and global health data.
  • Integrate and analyze survey, administrative, and remotely sensed (e.g., satellite or geospatial) data to generate novel insights on development and global health challenges.
  • Contribute to the design and execution of applied research studies, including experimental and quasi-experimental approaches where appropriate.
  • Translate complex analytical results into clear, actionable recommendations for policymakers, program implementers, and funders.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including economists, data scientists, and sector specialists, to integrate data-driven approaches into projects.
  • Support business development efforts, including drafting technical approaches, shaping analytical strategies for proposals, and contributing to engagement with donors such as the Gates Foundation, World Bank, U.S. Department of State, UNICEF, and other partners.
  • Engage with partners and stakeholders in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) to ensure analyses are grounded in contextual realities and implementation constraints.
  • Mentor and supervise junior researchers and data scientists, fostering professional growth and technical excellence.
  • Manage multidisciplinary project teams and ensure high-quality deliverables aligned with client expectations.
Requirements
  • Ph.D. in Economics, Computer Science, Data Science, Public Policy, Global Health, or a related quantitative or social science field, with demonstrated expertise in econometrics, machine learning, computer science, applied statistics, or quantitative data science.
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience conducting quantitative research in policy-relevant domains.
  • Extensive experience with Python and R; working knowledge of Stata.
  • Proven track record of designing and executing data analytics tools, such as forecasting, geospatial analyses, Large Language Model (LLM) models, etc.
  • Prior research experience in areas such as development economics, health economics, global health, or international development more broadly.
  • Experience managing complex projects and working with government, nonprofit, or philanthropic clients.
  • Experience in business development and fundraising with nonprofit, government, or multilateral agencies in the global health space.
Core Competencies

Demonstrates expertise in quantitative analysis and machine learning, with a strong focus on global health and development challenges. Capable of translating complex data insights into actionable recommendations while managing multidisciplinary teams and engaging with stakeholders in low- and middle-income countries.

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