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Development Economist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Economist

Suitland, MD ยท On-site +1

$85K - $133K/yr

Prepare estimates, analyzes data trends and economic developments, resolves statistical and conceptual problems, and researches and improves the quality of estimates and production processes. * Works ...

This position is located at Department of Housing and Urban Development , Assistant Secretary for ... Leading two or more simultaneous economic research design studies involving advanced statistical ...

New

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 ...

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 ...

This position is located at Department of Housing and Urban Development , Assistant Secretary for ... Leading two or more simultaneous economic research design studies involving advanced statistical ...

New

This position is located in the Department of Housing and Urban Development , Assistant Secretary ... Leading two or more simultaneous economic research design studies involving advanced statistical ...

New

This position is located at Department of Housing and Urban Development , Assistant Secretary for ... Leading two or more simultaneous economic research design studies involving advanced statistical ...

New

This position is located at Department of Housing and Urban Development , Assistant Secretary for ... Leading two or more simultaneous economic research design studies involving advanced statistical ...

New

This position is located in the Department of Housing and Urban Development , Assistant Secretary ... Leading two or more simultaneous economic research design studies involving advanced statistical ...

New

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 ...

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Development Economist information

See salary details

$46K

$82.1K

$122.5K

How much do development economist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 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 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.

What are the 4 types of economic development?

Development economists identify four main types of economic development: sustainable development, which focuses on environmental and social balance; human development, emphasizing health, education, and well-being; economic growth, involving increases in income and productivity; and structural transformation, which shifts economic activity from agriculture to industry and services. Understanding these types helps in designing policies that promote comprehensive and inclusive progress.

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 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 is the highest paid job in economics?

The highest paid roles in economics are often senior positions such as Chief Economist, Economics Director, or roles in investment banking and private equity that require advanced skills and experience. These positions typically offer high compensation packages, including bonuses and stock options, especially in financial services and consulting firms.

What does a development economist do?

A development economist analyzes economic conditions and policies to promote growth and reduce poverty in developing regions. They conduct research, collect data, and develop strategies to improve living standards, often working with governments, NGOs, or international organizations. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of economic theories are essential for this role.

What can I do with a development economics degree?

A development economist can work in government agencies, international organizations, research institutions, or NGOs, focusing on policies that promote economic growth and reduce poverty. They analyze data, develop strategies, and evaluate programs using skills in econometrics, data analysis, and policy assessment. Roles often require strong analytical abilities and knowledge of economic modeling tools.

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.
More about Development Economist jobs
What cities are hiring for Development Economist jobs? Cities with the most Development Economist job openings:
What states have the most Development Economist jobs? States with the most job openings for Development Economist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Development Economist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% Internship, 49% As Needed, 25% Temporary, and 13% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,064 per year, or $39.5 per hour.
Economist

$127K/yr

Other

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

This position is located in the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Assistant Secretary for Policy Development and Research.
If you do not meet any of the categories listed below, you may wish to apply under announcement 26-HUD-12976921-P which is open for any U.S. citizen to apply. Please refer to that announcement for details on open period, eligibility, and how to apply.Qualifications:

You must meet the following requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement.

Specialized Experience: For the GS-14 grade level, you must have one year (52 full weeks) of specialized experience at a level of difficulty and responsibility equivalent to the GS-13 grade level in the Federal service. Specialized Experience for this position includes:
  • Leading two or more simultaneous economic research design studies involving advanced statistical and econometric analysis, simulation modeling, the use of computer software, and advanced housing economics, finance, or public finance theory; AND
  • Developing research designs related to the analysis of housing and urban economics, housing finance, public finance, or microeconomics issues; AND
  • Utilizing computer software packages (such as SAS, SPSS, STATA, RATS, or others) to conduct econometric and statistical analysis; AND
  • Communicating effectively and persuasively, both orally and in writing, on findings of economic studies with special emphasis on describing and assessing the adequacy and significance of the methodology and data employed and findings derived.
The experience may have been gained in either the public, private sector or volunteer service. One year of experience refers to full-time work; part-time work is considered on a prorated basis. To ensure full credit for your work experience, please indicate dates of employment by month/day/year, and indicate number of hours worked per week on your resume.
Time-in-Grade: In addition to the above requirements, you must meet the following time-in-grade requirement, if applicable:
For the GS-14 you must have been at the GS-13 level for 52 weeks.
Time After Competitive Appointment: Candidates who are current Federal employees serving on a non-temporary competitive appointment must have served at least three months in that appointment.Education:Basic Requirements Degree:
A. Degree: Economics, that included at least 21 semester hours in economics and 3 semester hours in statistics, accounting, or calculus.
OR
B. Combination: Combination of education and experience: courses equivalent to a major in economics, as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
Examples of qualifying experience include:
1. Individual economic research assignments requiring planning, information assembly, analysis and evaluation, conclusions and report preparation;
2. Supervisory or project coordination assignments involving a staff of professional economists and requiring the evaluation and interpretation of economic information; or
3. Teaching assignments in a college or university that included both class instruction in economics subjects and one of the following (1) personal research that produced evidence of results, (2) direction of graduate theses in economics, or (3) service as a consultant or advisor on technical economics problems.
EDUCATION DOCUMENTATION: For positions with an education requirement, or if you are qualifying for this position by substituting education or training for experience, you MUST submit a copy of your transcripts or equivalent. An official transcript will be required if you are selected. A college or university degree generally must be from an accredited (or pre-accredited) college or university recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. For a list of schools which meet these criteria, please refer to Department of Education Accreditation page. If you are qualifying based on foreign education, you must submit proof of creditability of education as evaluated by a credentialing agency. Refer to the OPM instructions.Employment Type: OTHER