Economist Career Profile

Picture this: You’re analyzing complex datasets to predict how a new government policy might impact inflation rates, or advising a corporation on market expansion strategies based on economic forecasts.

Think about when you’re deciding whether to buy or rent a home. An economist studies these broad market forces that influence such personal decisions, helping organizations and governments make informed choices that affect millions of lives.

Economists bring a unique analytical perspective to problem-solving, using mathematical models and statistical methods to understand complex economic relationships. They conduct research, prepare reports, or formulate plans to address economic problems related to the production and distribution of goods and services or monetary and fiscal policy.

Total Employment: 16,420 (2023) 

Common Names for Economists

• Economic Advisor
• Economic Analyst
• Economic Consultant
• Economic Development Specialist
• Economist
• Forensic Economist
• Project Economist
• Research Economist
• Revenue Research Analyst
• Tax Economist

What Economists Do

Economists analyze data, trends, and market conditions to study how resources, goods, and services are produced, distributed, and consumed across society.

Core responsibilities include:

• Economic Analysis: Collect and analyze economic and statistical data to identify trends, patterns, and relationships that inform business decisions and policy recommendations.
• Research & Forecasting: Study market conditions, economic indicators, and industry trends to create forecasts and projections that help organizations plan for future scenarios.
• Data Management: Compile, organize, and maintain large datasets using statistical software and databases to ensure accurate and reliable economic information is available for analysis.
• Report Development: Create comprehensive reports and presentations that effectively communicate complex economic findings and recommendations to stakeholders at all levels.
• Policy Assessment: Evaluate the economic impact of existing policies and proposed changes to help organizations and governments make informed decisions.
• Financial Modeling: Design and implement economic models to assess financial feasibility, market conditions, and potential outcomes of various business or policy decisions.
• Strategic Consulting: Provide expert economic advice to leadership teams on business strategies, investment decisions, and resource allocation based on market analysis.
• Market Research: Study market conditions, pricing strategies, and consumer behavior to help organizations understand competitive dynamics and market opportunities.