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Senior Economist Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Economist (Sr.)

Vienna, VA · On-site

$92K - $116K/yr

Senior Economist Disclaimer: This position is being recruited in support of potential future contract awards. Qualified candidates may be considered for upcoming opportunities supporting federal ...

Economist (Sr.)

Vienna, VA

$92K - $116K/yr

Senior Economist Disclaimer: This position is being recruited in support of potential future contract awards. Qualified candidates may be considered for upcoming opportunities supporting federal ...

Senior Economic Advisor

Washington, DC · On-site

$96K - $122K/yr

We are currently seeking a Senior Economist with 15+ years of experience to join our growing team of economists and fully embrace our commitment to deliver, grow and thrive. About the Role: Corner ...

Senior Economic Advisor

Washington, DC · On-site

$103K - $131K/yr

We are currently seeking a Senior Economist with 15+ years of experience to join our growing team of economists and fully embrace our commitment to deliver, grow and thrive . About the Role: Corner ...

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Showing results 1-20

Senior Economist information

See Reston, VA salary details

$34.9K

$113.7K

$158K

How much do senior economist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior economist in Reston, VA is $113,709.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,200.00 and $123,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Senior Economist, you need advanced analytical skills, deep knowledge of economic theory, and typically a master's or doctoral degree in economics or a related field. Proficiency with statistical software like Stata, R, or SAS, as well as experience in econometric modeling and data analysis, is essential. Exceptional communication, critical thinking, and the ability to present complex findings clearly are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for generating impactful economic insights, influencing policy, and supporting strategic decision-making.

What is a senior economist?

A senior economist specializes in economics and policies related to the financial field, such as banking, international regulations, and monetary policies. Your job duties as an economist include performing complex research on a given topic, guiding other people in your department, and developing policies and reports based off of your research. You may work for a think tank, private company, or government. Qualifications for a career as a senior economist include a bachelor’s degree in economics or a closely related subject and an advanced degree, such as a master’s or Ph.D. You also need excellent research and analytical skills and experience in finance.

What is the difference between Senior Economist vs Economist?

AspectSenior EconomistEconomist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree required; often a master's or PhD preferredBachelor's degree minimum; advanced degrees enhance prospects
Work EnvironmentTypically in government agencies, research institutions, or large corporationsFound in similar settings, often as entry or mid-level roles
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in economic analysis, policy advising, and research rolesEntry-level to mid-level economic analysis roles in various industries

The main difference between a Senior Economist and an Economist lies in experience, responsibilities, and often educational background. Senior Economists usually have more experience, handle complex projects, and may lead teams, whereas Economists are often in entry or mid-level roles focused on analysis and research. Both roles are vital in economic analysis but differ in scope and seniority.

How does a senior economist typically collaborate with cross-functional teams within an organization?

Senior Economists frequently work alongside policy analysts, data scientists, and business leaders to provide actionable insights that drive organizational strategy. Their role often involves translating complex economic models into clear recommendations for non-technical stakeholders, participating in interdisciplinary project meetings, and ensuring economic perspectives are integrated into decision-making processes. Effective communication and a collaborative mindset are crucial for navigating differing priorities and achieving consensus on key initiatives.
What are the most commonly searched types of Economist jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Economist jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Senior Economist jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Senior Economist job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Economist job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Internship, 46% As Needed, 30% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 13% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,936 per year, or $53.8 per hour.

Senior Economist - Healthcare and Life Sciences

Cornerstone Research

Washington, DC

$104K - $131K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Overview

Who We Are

Cornerstone Research provides economic and financial consulting and expert testimony in all phases of complex disputes and regulatory investigations. The firm works with an extensive network of prominent academics and industry practitioners to identify the best-qualified expert for each assignment. With a reputation for high quality and effectiveness, Cornerstone Research has consistently delivered rigorous, state-of-the-art analysis since 1989. The firm has more than 1,000 professionals in nine offices across the United States, UK, and EU.

Cornerstone Research is involved in a broad variety of high-profile projects in healthcare, life sciences, and other industries. Current exemplary matters include antitrust and competition matters including allegations such as price fixing and exclusionary practices, merger reviews and enforcement action litigation, breach of contract litigation, intellectual property infringement, reimbursement disputes, and product misrepresentation matters. 

More detail on Cornerstone Research and what we do can be found on our website: www.cornerstone.com.

Responsibilities

Senior Economists at Cornerstone Research- Healthcare and Life Sciences Practices 

Cornerstone Research provides an interesting and rewarding work environment. Those joining our firm enjoy long-term career opportunities supported by our investments in their professional development and an escalating compensation structure including an industry-competitive salary and benefits package. The firm has grown steadily over more than 35 years, including our Healthcare and Life Sciences practices, and we maintain a firm culture that is collegial, supportive, friendly, and collaborative. We benefit from close collaboration with leading academics in finance and economics.

Senior Economists work at the core of our client project teams and in the development of our practice, assuming increasing levels of responsibility as their career develops. Senior Economists help devise and apply innovative analytical approaches meeting the highest academic standards to address challenging issues arising in our work. We invest heavily in cutting-edge information resources and computing capabilities and often have access to proprietary data to inform our analysis. Senior Economists help guide teams supported by our outstanding research analysts.

Career development for Senior Economists includes building communications and managerial abilities while honing their own research and analytical skills. The firm supports the development of those interested in becoming testifying experts in some or all of their work, and of those not choosing that path. Either approach provides opportunities for career advancement.

Candidate Profile

Cornerstone Research provides exceptional career opportunities for those who have pursued doctoral studies in health economics. Casework at Cornerstone Research challenges Senior Economists to apply the breadth of theoretical and empirical skills gained through their doctoral training. Candidates must have the ability to apply academic research to real-world issues, present concise explanations of complex analyses, and independently manage projects and junior staff. The ideal candidate has at least three years of academic and/or nonacademic work experience; and has demonstrated strong analytical, communication, and teamwork skills.

Qualifications

Interested Candidates

Candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and a sample research paper through our career website. Please be sure to rank our offices in order of your location preferences, if any. We are currently hiring in our Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Bay Area (San Francisco and Silicon Valley), and Washington, D.C., offices. Cornerstone Research will provide immigration assistance to eligible foreign nationals in accordance with the firm's immigration policy and applicable law.

Cornerstone Research offers a market-leading compensation and benefits package. The base salary for the Senior Economist role with a relevant Ph.D ranges from $252,500 to $322,500 in the United States. In addition to the base salary, new Senior Economist will be eligible for a signing bonus depending on skills, education, and based on performance, firm contributions, and other factors. Previous relevant work experience will be taken into consideration in determining compensation. Information about our benefits, including health and wellness and family support, can be found on the Careers page of our website. 

Cornerstone Research provides Equal Employment Opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to legally protected categories, such as age, sex, gender, gender identity, race, color, creed/religious belief, medical condition, predisposing genetic characteristics or genetic information or testing, disability, marital status, pregnancy status, miltrary status, veteran status, arrest or conviction record (expect where permitted by law), sexual orientation, ethnic background, citizen status, ancestry, national origin, or any other consideration protected by federal, state, or local law. 

Employment Type: FULL_TIME