Economic Professor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the dynamic world of finance and commerce, the role of an economics professor is increasingly crucial.

As global economies evolve, the need for knowledgeable individuals who can illuminate, develop, and defend our understanding of economic systems grows more urgent.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an economics professor?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring academic seeking to understand the nuances of this role,
• A hiring committee member outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the intricacies of teaching economics,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable economics professor job description template, designed for easy posting on academic job boards or university career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Economic Professor Duties and Responsibilities

Economic Professors, or Economics Lecturers, are responsible for teaching courses in economics to university students.

They often engage in original research to advance knowledge in their field and may also write scholarly articles and books.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Plan, prepare, and deliver instructional activities that facilitate active learning in economics
• Create a syllabus for each course they teach and ensure that it meets university and department standards
• Conduct research in their field of knowledge and publish findings in professional journals, books, or electronic media
• Evaluate and grade students’ class work, assignments, and papers
• Guide and advise students on academic and vocational curricula, and on career issues
• Keep abreast of developments in the field by reading current literature, talking with colleagues, and participating in professional conferences
• Perform administrative duties such as serving as department head
• Participate in campus and community events
• Perform public service, such as serving on committees, and participating in community outreach programs

 

Economic Professor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a knowledgeable and experienced Economic Professor to join our faculty.

Responsibilities include conducting high-quality research in economics, teaching economics courses to undergraduate and graduate students, and contributing to the department’s service obligations.

The ideal candidate is a dedicated educator with a deep understanding of economic theory, quantitative methods and their applications.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in the field of economics to advance knowledge in the subject area
• Prepare and deliver lectures on various economic topics to undergraduate and graduate students
• Assess students’ coursework, provide feedback and monitor their progress
• Publish research findings in reputable academic journals
• Participate in departmental meetings and contribute to academic program development
• Provide guidance and supervision to students’ research activities
• Engage in continuous professional development

 

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Economics or a related field
• Proven experience as an Economics Professor or a similar role in academia
• Strong record of research and publications in reputable academic journals
• Excellent teaching and mentoring abilities
• Experience with course development and instructional design
• Strong quantitative skills and familiarity with data analysis software

 

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development and continuing education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Economic Professor
• Work Environment: University campus with some opportunities for remote work. Travel may be required for conferences and research.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of the Economics Department.
• Salary: Commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our university. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your curriculum vitae, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and samples of your research to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Economic Professor Do?

Economic Professors usually work at colleges, universities or business schools where they teach a variety of economics courses to undergraduate and postgraduate students.

They are responsible for preparing and delivering lectures on topics such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, labor economics, and international economics among others.

They may also facilitate classroom discussions, oversee students’ coursework, and grade examinations and papers.

Economic Professors are expected to keep up with new developments in the field of economics and often conduct their own original research.

This research is usually published in academic journals or books, and can influence public policy and business practices.

In addition to their teaching and research duties, Economic Professors also have administrative responsibilities.

They may serve on academic or administrative committees, advise students, and participate in faculty training activities.

Furthermore, they might also consult with government agencies, private firms, international organizations, or nonprofit entities, providing expert guidance on economic matters.

Their role is not just to impart knowledge but also to inspire critical thinking, problem-solving, and a deeper understanding of the economic forces that shape our society.

 

Economic Professor Qualifications and Skills

An accomplished Economics Professor should have the skills and qualifications that are necessary for this role, such as:

• Extensive knowledge in various branches of economics, including macroeconomics and microeconomics, and an understanding of economic theory and its practical applications.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills to clearly explain complex economic theories and concepts to students with diverse backgrounds and learning styles.
• Strong research skills to stay updated with the latest trends in economic theory, policy and practice, and to contribute to the field through scholarly publications.
• Interpersonal skills to foster a positive and inclusive learning environment, to interact with students and colleagues, and to collaborate on research projects.
• Critical thinking and analytical skills to dissect economic data, predict trends, and develop economic models.
• Mentoring and coaching skills to guide students in their academic journey, provide constructive feedback, and support their research projects.
• Organizational skills to manage course materials, assignments, and examinations, and to balance teaching responsibilities with research commitments.
• Experience with teaching tools and technology, such as digital whiteboards, learning management systems, and online teaching platforms.

 

Economic Professor Experience Requirements

To become an Economics Professor, a significant amount of educational and practical experience is required.

Generally, candidates need to obtain a Ph.D. in economics, which can take five to six years of dedicated study, including conducting original research.

While working towards their Ph.D., many candidates gain teaching experience as teaching assistants, which is highly beneficial for the role of an Economics Professor.

Some may also have experience in lecturing or tutoring undergraduate students.

Upon receiving their Ph.D., candidates may work in postdoctoral roles, further specializing in their chosen area of economics and gaining more research and teaching experience.

These roles can last from 2 to 3 years and provide in-depth knowledge and understanding in specific economic theories or concepts.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience in academia, often have a track record of published research in reputable economic journals.

This experience is highly valued in the role of an Economics Professor.

Those with more than 10 years of experience may also have held administrative or managerial roles within their institutions, such as a department head or research lead.

These individuals bring leadership and management skills to the role of an Economics Professor.

They may also have a more extensive network of professional contacts, which can be advantageous for collaborative research and securing funding opportunities.

 

Economic Professor Education and Training Requirements

Economic Professors typically need a doctoral degree in Economics.

This is achieved after completion of a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree, often in economics, finance, or a related field.

The doctoral program involves rigorous training in economic theory, econometrics, and specialized fields.

These programs require students to conduct research and write a dissertation.

For those interested in teaching at a community college, a Master’s degree might be sufficient.

However, most universities require professors to have a Ph.D. in their respective field.

Prior to becoming an Economic Professor, candidates often gain experience through fellowships or working as graduate teaching assistants during their doctoral studies.

In addition to these academic qualifications, they must also have strong skills in critical thinking, public speaking, and writing.

They must be adept at complex problem-solving and have a comprehensive understanding of economic models and theories.

Continued professional development may be achieved through attending academic conferences, conducting research, and publishing papers.

Some Economic Professors may also decide to specialize further by pursuing post-doctoral studies in a specific area of economics.

Membership in professional associations such as the American Economic Association can also enhance credibility and offer opportunities for networking and professional development.

 

Economic Professor Salary Expectations

The average salary for an Economic Professor is $107,696 (USD) per year.

However, the exact salary can greatly vary depending on factors such as the individual’s level of education, years of experience in the field, and the location of the university or institution.

Additionally, those who have published significant research or who have a high degree of specialization may earn more.

 

Economic Professor Job Description FAQs

What is the main role of an Economic Professor?

The main role of an Economic Professor is to teach economics courses at undergraduate or graduate levels.

They are responsible for preparing course materials, conducting lectures, grading assignments, and mentoring students.

They also conduct and publish research in their field of expertise.

 

What qualifications does an Economic Professor need?

To become an Economic Professor, one generally needs to have a Ph.D. in Economics.

Some universities may hire individuals with a master’s degree for adjunct or part-time positions, but full-time, tenured positions typically require a doctorate.

Additionally, teaching experience and published research are usually required for higher-level positions.

 

What skills are important for an Economic Professor?

An Economic Professor needs to have a deep understanding of economic theories and principles.

They should possess strong research skills to contribute to their field of expertise.

Communication and presentation skills are also important as they need to be able to convey complex economic concepts to students in an understandable manner.

They should also possess interpersonal skills to engage with students and colleagues effectively.

 

What should you look for in an Economic Professor’s resume?

An Economic Professor’s resume should display a solid educational background in economics, particularly a Ph.D. or master’s degree.

It should also highlight any teaching experience, including the courses they’ve taught and their teaching philosophy.

A strong candidate will have published research in reputable economic journals.

Any awards or recognitions in their field should also be included.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Economic Professor?

The hiring process for an Economic Professor can be challenging due to the high level of qualifications required.

It could be particularly difficult to find suitable candidates for specialized fields of economics.

Universities need to offer competitive salaries and a supportive academic environment to attract top talent.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve scrutinized the true essence of being an economic professor.

And guess what?

It’s not just about lecturing or grading papers.

It’s about shaping the economic perspective of the future, one lecture at a time.

With our comprehensive economic professor job description template and real-life examples, you’re fully equipped to take the next step.

But why pause there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your essential tool for creating precision-crafted job listings or polishing your curriculum vitae to perfection.

Remember:

Every lecture is a part of the broader economic picture.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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