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Economist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Economist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$74K/yr

Degree: economics, that included at least 21 semester hours in economics and 3 semester hours in statistics, accounting, or calculus. OR Combination of education and experience: courses equivalent to ...

Economist

El Paso, TX

$81K - $137K/yr

Master's Degree or higher in Economics, Statistics or related field, plus four (4) years of experience public finance, economic analysis or econometric forecasting; including two (2) years of direct ...

$74K/yr

Degree: economics, that included at least 21 semester hours in economics and 3 semester hours in statistics, accounting, or calculus. OR Combination of education and experience: courses equivalent to ...

$74K/yr

Degree: economics, that included at least 21 semester hours in economics and 3 semester hours in statistics, accounting, or calculus. OR Combination of education and experience: courses equivalent to ...

$74K/yr

Degree: economics, that included at least 21 semester hours in economics and 3 semester hours in statistics, accounting, or calculus. OR Combination of education and experience: courses equivalent to ...

Economist

El Paso, TX · On-site

$81K - $137K/yr

Master's Degree or higher in Economics, Statistics or related field, plus four (4) years of experience public finance, economic analysis or econometric forecasting; including two (2) years of direct ...

$74K/yr

Degree: economics, that included at least 21 semester hours in economics and 3 semester hours in statistics, accounting, or calculus. OR Combination of education and experience: courses equivalent to ...

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Economist information

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$46K

$82.1K

$122.5K

How much do economist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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 Do Economists Do?

Economists are professional social scientists who study and analyze social and economic behavior on a range of scales, from small household economies to national and global economies. It is the job of an economist to conduct research using observation, surveys, and data analysis to determine the usage of shared resources. These resources may include raw materials, land, labor, energy, or machinery. State, local, and federal government agencies, as well as nonprofit organizations and academic institutions, rely heavily on economists. Economists help streamline budgets and distribution, and in some cases, use their data to forecast future resource needs.

What does an economist do?

An economist studies how resources are produced, distributed, and consumed, analyzing data and trends to understand how economies work. They use statistical methods and economic theory to advise businesses, governments, and organizations on issues like inflation, employment, and policy decisions. Economists also create forecasts, conduct research, and communicate their findings through reports and presentations. Their work helps inform decisions that impact financial markets, public policy, and everyday life.

What typical challenges might an economist face when translating complex data into actionable business insights?

Economists often encounter the challenge of communicating complex statistical findings in a way that is accessible and actionable for stakeholders who may not have a technical background. Balancing accuracy with clarity can require creative data visualization and storytelling skills. Additionally, economists must ensure that their recommendations are not only data-driven but also aligned with the organization's goals and current market conditions. Collaborating closely with decision-makers and other departments is essential to ensure that insights lead to effective strategies.

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

To thrive as an Economist, you need a solid background in economics, mathematics, and statistical analysis, generally supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in economics or a related field. Proficiency with data analysis software such as Stata, R, SAS, or Excel, and familiarity with econometric modeling are typically required. Strong critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for effectively analyzing complex data, generating actionable insights, and clearly presenting findings to inform policy or business decisions.

What is the difference between Economist vs Data Analyst?

AspectEconomistData Analyst
Required CredentialsDegree in Economics, Statistics, or related field; often advanced degreesBachelor's or master's in Data Science, Statistics, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, government agencies, think tanks, financial firmsBusiness, finance, healthcare, tech companies, and consulting firms
Industry UsagePolicy analysis, economic forecasting, researchData interpretation, reporting, business insights

While both roles analyze data, Economists focus on economic theories, policy impacts, and forecasting, often working in research or policy environments. Data Analysts concentrate on interpreting data sets to inform business decisions across various industries. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What kind of job do you get with an economics degree?

An economist with an economics degree can work in government agencies, financial institutions, consulting firms, or research organizations, analyzing data and economic trends. They often use statistical tools and economic models to inform policy or business decisions and may require strong analytical and quantitative skills.
What cities are hiring for Economist jobs? Cities with the most Economist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Economist jobs? The most popular types of Economist jobs are:
What states have the most Economist jobs? States with the most job openings for Economist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Economist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Economist jobs are:
Infographic showing various Economist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,064 per year, or $39.5 per hour.
Economist

$74K/yr

Other

Posted 17 days ago


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 518 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below for IMPORTANT additional information.
Your application will remain active through the open period of this Public Notice. Once this Public Notice closes, you must reapply.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Professional and Scientific Positions.
BASIC REQUIREMENT OR INDIVIDUAL OCCUPATIONAL REQUIREMENT:
Degree: economics, that included at least 21 semester hours in economics and 3 semester hours in statistics, accounting, or calculus.
OR
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, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below:
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE:
GS-11:
Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-09, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes developing, improving and implementing analysis and evaluation techniques; preparing and coordinating reference papers and documentation to support projects.
GS-12: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-11, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes applying economics and quantitative social science methods as well as operations research analysis and models to perform difficult and complex assignments.
GS-13: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-12, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes performing quantitative and qualitative analysis of adversarial economic systems and organizations; planning, evaluating and executing assignments requiring application of economic theories, methods and practices.
GS-14: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-13, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes providing design requirements, conducting experiments and investigations and to develop analytic models, methods, algorithms, formulas and simulations; planning for operational experimentation and analysis and manpower and funding recommendations.
GS-15: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-14, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes providing assessments of economic performance, economic strategy and political, social and military context; providing economic advice and analysis to support the development of regional strategy.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
1. Knowledge of the principles, concepts, and theories of economics, political science, operations research and/or other quantitative social science, and the standard practices, methods, and techniques of operation research sufficient to perform progressively difficult assignments
2. Knowledge of intelligence, analysis, evaluation, fact-finding, and investigative techniques in order to gather data, identify significant factors, and recommend a solution from a number of possible alternatives.
3. Knowledge of applied economics methods, quantitative social science, statistics, and / or operations research to perform studies and prepare reports, documentation, and correspondence to communicate factual and procedural information clearly.
4. Skill in applying the principles, concepts, and practices of economics/quantitative social science sufficient to perform moderately difficult assignments.
5. Ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and with technical accuracy, both orally and in writing, as well as work in a professional manner with peers and management.
6. Ability to learn and apply analytical investigative techniques to accomplish work in the economics research field.
PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:IF USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY: If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcriptswith the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience; transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.Employment Type: OTHER

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