Occupation Profile for Economists

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Conduct research, prepare reports, or formulate plans to aid in solution of economic problems arising from production and distribution of goods and services. May collect and process economic and statistical data using econometric and sampling techniques.

Signficant Points

  • Slower than average job growth is expected as firms increasingly employ workers with titles that reflect specialized duties rather than the general title of economist.
  • Job seekers with a background in economics should have opportunities in various occupations.
  • Candidates who hold a master’s or Ph.D. degree in economics will have the best employment prospects and advancement opportunities.
  • Quantitative skills are important in all economics specialties.
 

Tasks

  • Core — Study economic and statistical data in area of specialization, such as finance, labor, or agriculture.
  • Core — Compile, analyze, and report data to explain economic phenomena and forecast market trends, applying mathematical models and statistical techniques.
  • Core — Provide advice and consultation on economic relationships to businesses, public and private agencies, and other employers.
  • Core — Formulate recommendations, policies, or plans to solve economic problems or to interpret markets.
  • Core — Develop economic guidelines and standards and prepare points of view used in forecasting trends and formulating economic policy.

Activities

  • Analyzing Data or Information — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
  • Getting Information — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
  • Processing Information — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
  • Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
  • Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.