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Policy Economist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Policy Analyst

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

We fight for progressive economic policy and narrative change that builds accountable public power, breaks up concentrations of private power, and affirmatively centers people too long left out of ...

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 ...

Economist

Santa Barbara, CA ยท On-site

$33 - $47/hr

Conduct applied regional economic analyses to support client decision- and policy-making * Develop, scale, and support data collection and analysis workflows * Prepare and present client briefings ...

At least 5 years of experience providing economic policy analysis. * Ability to work effectively both individually and as a member of a team. * Candidate must have strong attention to detail and ...

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 ...

Senior Economic Advisor

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$96K - $122K/yr

We are currently seeking a Senior Economist with 15+ years of experience to join our growing team ... Conduct policy and regulatory impact analyses for spectrum and broadband programs. * Provide ...

Senior Economic Advisor

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$103K - $131K/yr

We are currently seeking a Senior Economist with 15+ years of experience to join our growing team ... Conduct policy and regulatory impact analyses for spectrum and broadband programs. * Provide ...

Policy Advisor

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$85K/yr

By advocating on issues including transportation, economic development and the urban experience ... The Policy Advisor supports DSA's public policy, advocacy, and economic development priorities by ...

US Economist

Stamford, CT ยท On-site

$200K/yr

Conduct research and provide economic analysis and insights on monetary policy to support US traders and salespersons. Collaborate with Chief Economist to form a view on the economic outlook for the ...

Showing results 41-60

Policy Economist information

See salary details

$46K

$82.1K

$122.5K

How much do policy economist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for policy 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.

How does a policy economist typically collaborate with government agencies and other stakeholders to influence policy decisions?

Policy Economists frequently work in multidisciplinary teams, engaging with government agencies, non-profits, and industry representatives to provide data-driven insights that shape public policy. They often participate in meetings, present findings, and draft policy briefs to communicate complex economic concepts in an accessible manner. Effective collaboration requires strong communication skills, adaptability, and the ability to synthesize feedback from diverse perspectives. These interactions are crucial for ensuring that policy recommendations are practical, evidence-based, and aligned with broader societal goals.

What is a policy economist?

Policy economists are professionals who analyze economic data and trends to inform and shape public policy decisions. They work for government agencies, think tanks, research institutions, and private organizations to provide insights on the economic impacts of proposed laws, regulations, and programs. Their work involves researching economic issues, developing forecasts, and advising policymakers on the potential outcomes of various policy options. Policy economists often specialize in areas such as healthcare, education, labor markets, or international trade.

What is the difference between Policy Economist vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPolicy EconomistPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in Economics or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Public Policy, Economics, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch-focused, often in government, think tanks, or academiaPolicy research, analysis, and recommendation in government agencies, NGOs, or consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, international organizations, research institutionsGovernment departments, think tanks, advocacy groups, consulting firms

Policy Economists typically have advanced degrees and focus on economic modeling and research, while Policy Analysts often hold bachelor's or master's degrees and concentrate on analyzing policies and providing recommendations. Both roles are vital in shaping public policy but differ mainly in their scope, depth of economic analysis, and work environment.

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

To thrive as a Policy Economist, you need a strong background in economics, data analysis, and policy research, typically supported by an advanced degree in economics or a related field. Proficiency with statistical software such as Stata, R, or SAS, and familiarity with economic modeling tools, is crucial. Excellent critical thinking, written communication, and the ability to convey complex ideas to non-specialists are standout soft skills. These competencies are vital for producing actionable policy recommendations and effectively influencing decision-makers.
More about Policy Economist jobs
What cities are hiring for Policy Economist jobs? Cities with the most Policy Economist job openings:
What states have the most Policy Economist jobs? States with the most job openings for Policy Economist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Policy Economist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,064 per year, or $39.5 per hour.

Principal Business Economist/Regional Policy Advisor

Federal Reserve System

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Company
Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago
The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago is one of 12 Reserve Banks that, along with the Board of Governors in Washington, D.C., constitute the Federal Reserve System, which was established by Congress in 1913.
The fundamental mission of the Federal Reserve System is to foster the stability, integrity and efficiency of the nation's monetary, financial and payment systems and to promote optimal economic performance.
To this end, the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago serves the public interest by participating in the formulation and implementation of national monetary policy; supervising and regulating state member banks, bank holding companies and foreign bank branches; providing financial services to depository institutions, designated financial market utilities, and the U.S. government; and promoting consumer protection and community development.
The Chicago Fed serves the Seventh Federal Reserve District, a five-state region comprising all of Iowa and most of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin.
As a Regional Policy Advisor and senior member of a collegial team, you will play a critical leadership role in supporting monetary policy and outreach by gathering and sharing information about the regional economy and its key sub-geographies and sectors, such as manufacturing, agriculture, automotive, and industrial cities. You will serve as a recognized expert on regional economic conditions and sector-specific trends, providing strategic insights that inform monetary policy decisions. You will work with policy professionals across the Chicago and Detroit offices, leading high-level engagement with different constituents, representing the Bank at major conferences and events, and mentoring junior team members in economic analysis and outreach activities.
This position applies advanced knowledge of regional economics, qualitative and quantitative research methods, and deep expertise in at least one key District industry or geography. The incumbent works independently with minimal supervision and provides guidance to less experienced team members. This position may have project leadership responsibilities but does not have direct reports.
Your Responsibilities
  • Gathers timely economic intelligence through planning and facilitating economic roundtables (the team conducts approximately 32 per year), contributing to survey programs including the quarterly Agricultural Land Values and Credit Conditions Survey and monthly Chicago Fed Survey of Economic Conditions (CFSEC), and conducting strategic calls, emails, and site visits with senior business leaders and key constituents across the district to deepen understanding of economic trends and build senior-level contacts
  • Participates in our Advisory Council activities, including meeting facilitation, member engagement, and contributing to the application process for new members
  • Contributes to preparation of the Seventh District's section of the Beige Book, the Federal Reserve's report on anecdotal information regarding current economic conditions, by synthesizing anecdotal information from roundtables and surveys, and coordinating with other Reserve Banks
  • Prepares contact engagement summaries and sector-specific analysis (such as automotive or agriculture updates) for FOMC preparation materials
  • Delivers economic outlook presentations on national and regional topics at conferences, industry events, and community forums
  • Serves as a subject matter expert on a sector of the regional economy such as manufacturing, automotive, agriculture, or real estate or a local area such as Detroit or Chicago
  • Contributes to planning and execution of conferences
  • Conducts research on topics relevant to the district economy with goal of publishing in specialized outlets and Chicago Fed publications and contributing regional economic content to the Chicago Fed website
  • Supports travel by Bank senior leadership by contributing ideas for engagement opportunities, preparing briefing documents on local economic conditions, and participating in visits as needed
  • Mentors junior team members on economic analysis and engagement

Your Background
  • Graduate training in Economics, Agricultural Economics, or related field preferred
  • Minimum five years of experience in economic research, analysis, public policy, or related field
  • Demonstrated expertise in regional economic analysis, with specialization in one or more key sectors (manufacturing, agriculture, automotive, regional development) or geographies
  • Proven track record of sharing written analysis in professional outlets
  • Advanced knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methods, economic survey design and analysis, and proficiency with statistical software
  • Strong understanding of the US economy, monetary policy, and the Federal Reserve System
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with demonstrated ability to present complex economic information to diverse audiences including senior business leaders, policymakers, and the public
  • Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with external parties including business leaders, government officials, and other constituents.
  • Advanced project management and strategic planning capabilities
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently, set priorities, and manage multiple complex initiatives simultaneously
  • Experience with or interest in agricultural sectors, including crop production, dairy, livestock, or rural economies a plus

What we Offer
  • Comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, prescription drug coverage, 401k savings plan, retirement plan, paid time off, transit benefit, onsite gym and subsidized cafeteria
  • A learning environment with opportunities to gain new skills and grow your career
  • Unique opportunity to contribute to monetary policy and work on issues of national and regional economic importance
  • The Chicago Fed offers benefits to support overall health and financial security. Learn more about our benefits here: https://www.chicagofed.org/careers/thebenefits

Additional Requirements:
  • Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship now or in the future.
  • This position has additional screening requirements due to the information accessed while performing the job. These additional screenings would be initiated at the time of offer acceptance and can take approximately two months to be completed. The screening covers areas such as education/employment verification, criminal history, credit history, and reaches out to your references and people that know you well.
  • As a condition of employment, Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago employees must comply with the Bank's ethics rules, which generally prohibit employees, their spouses/domestic partners, and minor children from owning securities, such as stock, of banks or savings associations or their affiliates, such as bank holding companies and savings and loan holding companies. If you or your spouse/domestic partner or minor child own such securities and would not be willing or able to divest them if you accepted an offer of Bank employment, you should raise this issue with the recruiter for this posting, who can provide you contact information for our ethics official if necessary.
  • This document indicates the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this position. It is not a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. An employee's responsibilities, tasks, and duties might differ from those outlined in the job description, and other duties, as assigned, are a part of the job. The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago reserves the right to modify the elements of this job description, as business needs require.

The expected starting salary range for the position of Principal Business Economist is between $196,700 and $232,700 annually in addition to annual performance-based discretionary bonuses. Final salary and offer will be determined based on the applicant's relevant experience, skills, internal equity, and alignment with geographic and other market data.
The expected starting salary range for the position of Regional Policy Advisor is between $213,900 and $253,000 annually in addition to annual performance-based discretionary bonuses. Final salary and offer will be determined based on the applicant's relevant experience, skills, internal equity, and alignment with geographic and other market data.
The Chicago Fed offers benefits to support overall health and financial security. Learn more about our benefits here: https://www.chicagofed.org/careers/thebenefits
We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender, gender identity or expression, or veteran status.
Full Time / Part Time
Full time
Regular / Temporary
Regular
Job Exempt (Yes / No)
Yes
Job Category
Economics/Research Family Group
Work Shift
First (United States of America)
The Federal Reserve Banks are committed to equal employment opportunity for employees and job applicants in compliance with applicable law and to an environment where employees are valued for their differences.
Always verify and apply to jobs on Federal Reserve System Careers (https://rb.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/FRS) or through verified Federal Reserve Bank social media channels.
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