1

Development Economist Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Economist

Chicago, IL ยท On-site +1

$56K - $73K/yr

Duties at the GS-07 are development leading up to the full performance level of the GS-12 ... Economist, GS-0110 : A) Degree in economics, that included at least 21 semester hours in economics ...

Economic Development Manager Responsibilities: * Prepare and present monthly, quarterly and annual reports to management related to property and portfolio performance in regards to budget, internal ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Development Economist information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$47.4K

$84.5K

$126.2K

How much do development economist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for development economist in Chicago, IL is $84,538.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,100.00 and $101,500.00 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.

What job categories do people searching Development Economist jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Development Economist jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Development Economist job openings in Chicago, IL 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 $84,538 per year, or $40.6 per hour.

Economist

Bureau of Labor Statistics

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site, Remote

$56K - $73K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Summary
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) measures labor market activity, working conditions, price changes, and productivity in the U.S. economy to support public and private decision making.
This position is with the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Office of Field Operation, Chicago Regional Office, Division of Federal / State Programs.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
Help
Duties include but are not limited to:
  • Provide collection expertise and feedback to the development of Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) survey programs, to effectively and efficiently execute survey activities both directly and through grantees, and to conduct an active program of information and outreach for BLS products.
  • Provide technical assistance and guidance to cooperating state agencies in the collection, processing, estimating, benchmarking, analysis and interpretation of data generated by the States and reviewed by the Branch programs.
  • Communicate with regional and state staff in translating statistical program requirements into various automated systems.
  • Through on-site reviews and analysis of reports, assures the integrity and validity of data produced by cooperating state agencies.
  • Collect data and coordinate quality control work including response analysis studies and other special projects to improve overall program output.

Duties at the GS-07 are development leading up to the full performance level of the GS-12.
Requirements
Help
Conditions of employment
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen.
  • Must be at least 16 years old.
  • Requires a probationary period if the requirement has not been met.
  • Candidate required to obtain the necessary security/investigation level.
  • Requires a valid driver's license.

Qualifications
Applicants must meet the Basic Requirements and the Minimum qualifications to qualify for each series and grade they wish to be considered for.
Basic Requirements: Economist, GS-0110:
A) Degree in economics, that included at least 21 semester hours in economics and 3 semester hours in statistics, accounting or calculus.
OR
B) A combination of education and experience - courses equivalent to a major in economics, as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
In addition to meeting the Basic Requirement above, applicants must also meet the Minimum Qualifications to be considered:
Applicants must have 52 weeks of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level, GS-5 in the Federal Service.
Specialized Experience is the experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSA's) to perform the duties of the position successfully, and that is typically in or related to the position to be filled. To be creditable, specialized experience must have been equivalent to at least the next lower grade level.
Specialized experience should include a thorough range of complex economic professional work. Some examples of qualifying specialized experience include:
GS-07: Assist in planning and monitory program productivity and .deliverable from state partners; assist in review of technical procedures, operating instructions, forms, and other collection materials; and utilize program systems used in data capture and/or review.
OR
Education Substitution:
GS-07
: 1 year of graduate-level education or superior academic achievement. Superior Academic Achievement is based on (1) class standing, (2) grade-point average, or (3) honor society membership.
  1. Class standing Applicants must be in the upper third of the graduating class in the college, university, or major subdivision, such as the College of Liberal Arts or the School of Business Administration, based on completed courses.
  2. Grade-point average (G.P.A.) Applicants must have a grade-point average of: 3.0 or higher out of a possible 4.0 ("B" or better) as recorded on their official transcript, or as computed based on 4 years of education, or as computed based on courses completed during the final 2 years of the curriculum; or 3.5 or higher out of a possible 4.0 ("B+" or better) based on the average of the required courses completed in the major field or the required courses in the major field completed during the final 2 years of the curriculum.
  3. Election to membership in a national scholastic honor society. A list of acceptable honor societies can be found at Certified Member Societies

OR
Combination of Education and Specialized Experience
GS-07
: An appropriate combination of graduate level education and specialized experience (less than a year) that when combined totals to one year.
Education must have been gained in a curriculum that is qualifying for the position to be filled. Equivalent combinations of education and experience are qualifying for this position.
For additional information, refer to the Office of Personnel Management Operating Manual for Qualification Standards, Group Coverage Qualification Standards for Professional and Scientific Positions. Individual Occupation Requirements for Economist Series GS-110.
Education
Any applicant falsely claiming an academic degree from an accredited school will be subject to actions ranging from disqualification from federal employment to removal from federal service.
If your education was completed at a foreign college or university, you must show comparability to education received in accredited educational institutions in the United States and comparability to applicable minimum coursework requirements for this position. Click Evaluation of Foreign Education for more information.
Additional information
Applicants must meet all legal and regulatory requirements. Reference the Required Documents section for additional requirements.
The mission of the Department of Labor (DOL) is to protect the welfare of workers and job seekers, improve working conditions, expand high-quality employment opportunities, and assure work-related benefits and rights for all workers.
Refer to these links for more information: GENERAL INFORMATION, REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS, ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION, FORMER FEDERAL EMPLOYEES
As a condition of employment, all personnel must undergo a background investigation for access to DOL facilities, systems, information and/or classified materials before they can enter on duty: BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION
This position is inside the bargaining unit. If the duty location is within the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, the position will be included in the Local 12, AFGE bargaining unit. If the duty location is outside the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, the position will be included in the NCFLL bargaining unit.
For more information, click Career Ladder Promotion Information
For more information, click Telework Position Information. This is not a remote work position. The selectee will report to an assigned DOL office location on a regular basis and is eligible for participation in telework as determined by management in accordance with DOL policy.
Based on agency needs, additional positions may be filled using this vacancy.
The Fair Chance Act (FCA) prohibits Federal agencies from requesting an applicant's criminal history information before the agency makes a conditional offer of employment. If you believe a DOL employee has violated your rights under the FCA, you may file a complaint of the alleged violation following our agency's complaint process Guidelines for Reporting Violations of the Fair Chance Act.
Note: The FCA does not apply to some positions specified under the Act, such as law enforcement or national security positions.
All Department of Labor employees are subject to the provisions of the Drug-Free Workplace Program under Executive Order 12564 and Public Law 100-71.
Reasonable Accommodation (RA) Requests: If you believe you have a disability (i.e., physical or mental), covered by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended that would interfere with completing the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments, you will be granted the opportunity to request a RA in your online application. Requests for RA for the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments and appropriate supporting documentation for RA must be received prior to starting the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments. Decisions on requests for RA are made on a case-by-case basis. If you meet the minimum qualifications of the position, after notification of the adjudication of your request, you will receive an email invitation to complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments, based on your adjudication decision. You must complete all assessments within 48 hours of receiving the URL to access the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments if you received the link after the close of the announcement. To determine if you need a RA, please review the Procedures for Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation for Online Assessments.
Expand Hide additional information
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
Help
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.