Economic Research Analyst Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the global economy, the role of economic research analysts has never been more critical.
Economic landscapes evolve, and with each shift, the need for analytical minds who can dissect, interpret, and predict economic trends heightens.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s genuinely expected from an economic research analyst?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
- A hiring manager seeking to outline the perfect candidate,
- Or simply captivated by the complexities of economic research analysis,
You’ve arrived at the right place.
Today, we present a customizable economic research analyst job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right into it.
Economic Research Analyst Duties and Responsibilities
Economic Research Analysts employ statistical and mathematical models to analyze economic data, market trends, and economic issues.
They use their expert knowledge in economics and finance to make forecasts and recommendations to businesses, government agencies, and other organizations.
The duties and responsibilities of an Economic Research Analyst include:
- Collecting and analyzing economic data using mathematical models and statistical techniques
- Preparing reports that present research findings, interpret data, and make predictions on future economic conditions
- Conducting research on economic and business issues such as price trends, yield trends, economic indicators, and factors affecting economic performance
- Developing, testing, and utilizing economic models for prediction and strategic planning
- Presenting research findings to stakeholders in a clear and concise manner
- Keeping abreast of current economic matters and trends affecting markets
- Advising businesses, government agencies, or other organizations on economic policies, market trends, or investment strategies
- Collaborating with colleagues and clients to improve and refine economic forecasting models
Economic Research Analyst Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a detail-oriented Economic Research Analyst to help us study market trends, fiscal policies, and microeconomic and macroeconomic conditions.
You will be responsible for collecting data, monitoring economic trends, conducting surveys, and utilizing statistical techniques.
Our ideal candidate is someone with strong analytical skills, excellent command over statistical tools, and a deep understanding of economic theory and principles.
The role of an Economic Research Analyst is to present economic and financial insights that will guide our company’s strategic decisions and forecasting efforts.
Responsibilities
- Collecting and analyzing economic data on consumption, demographics, and employment patterns.
- Conducting surveys and utilizing various research methodologies.
- Interpreting and forecasting market trends and economic patterns.
- Presenting research results via reports, graphs, and charts.
- Advising companies on economic policies, fiscal matters, and market conditions.
- Creating and using mathematical and statistical techniques for economic analysis.
- Contributing to the company’s strategic decisions through economic insights.
- Keeping abreast of industry trends, research, and predictive analytics.
Qualifications
- Proven experience as an Economic Research Analyst or similar role.
- Strong analytical skills and a keen eye for detail.
- Proficient in statistical software such as STATA, Eviews, or R.
- Excellent command over MS Office (especially Excel) for data analysis.
- Understanding of economic theory, fiscal policies, and financial markets.
- Outstanding presentation and report writing skills.
- BSc/BA in Economics, Finance, or related field. Master’s degree or Ph.D. preferred.
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Economic Research Analyst
- Work Environment: Predominantly office setting with occasional fieldwork for data collection. Some travel may be required for conferences or seminars.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Economic Research or Chief Economist.
- Salary: The salary will be determined based on the candidate’s qualifications, experience, and the current market conditions.
- Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $110,000 maximum
- 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 company. 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 resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a sample of your research work to [email address or application portal].
What Does an Economic Research Analyst Do?
Economic Research Analysts primarily work for corporations, government agencies, consulting firms, or research organizations.
They can also be self-employed and work on a project basis.
Their primary responsibility is to study and interpret economic data, trends, and issues.
This includes analyzing economic conditions in specified areas, such as finance, labor, or agriculture.
They use mathematical models and statistical techniques to forecast future economic trends.
They might also be required to conduct surveys and collect data.
Economic Research Analysts provide detailed reports on their findings and present data in a way that can be easily understood by non-economists.
They often use charts and graphs to illustrate economic trends and predictions.
They also evaluate the effectiveness of current economic policies and regulations.
Their analysis can influence business strategies, government policies, and even investment plans.
In some cases, Economic Research Analysts might specialize in a particular area of the economy, such as labor markets, international economics, or healthcare.
Regardless of their area of focus, their role is critical in providing insights that help shape strategic decisions.
Economic Research Analyst Qualifications and Skills
An Economic Research Analyst should have the qualifications and skills that align with the job requirements, such as:
- Strong analytical skills to evaluate economic data, identify trends, conduct quantitative analysis and interpret economic issues.
- Proficiency in statistical software to manage and analyze data, with expertise in packages such as Stata, SAS, R or Python.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills to present complex economic theories or research findings in a clear and concise manner to a variety of audiences.
- Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple projects and tasks simultaneously while maintaining a high level of accuracy.
- Strong problem-solving abilities to identify and provide solutions to complex economic problems.
- A solid understanding of economic theories and principles as well as knowledge of the global economy and financial markets.
- A master’s degree in economics or a related field is usually required, though some positions may require a PhD.
- Experience in economic research, data analysis, forecasting, and model building.
Economic Research Analyst Experience Requirements
Economic Research Analysts commonly enter the field with a bachelor’s degree in economics, finance, statistics, or a related field, often requiring internships or research projects to get hands-on experience during their academic years.
Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through an internship or part-time role in economic research, data analysis, or related fields.
This early stage experience often includes collecting data, performing basic analysis, and contributing to reports under supervision.
Candidates with more than 3 years of experience typically have developed their research skills and are adept at using statistical analysis software.
They may have authored or co-authored research papers, and often have experience presenting findings to both economic and non-economic audiences.
Those with more than 5 years of experience often have extensive experience in conducting independent research, formulating economic models, and forecasting market trends.
At this level, they may have managerial experience and be ready for roles that involve team leadership or strategy development in a business or policy setting.
In addition to these, some roles may require a master’s degree or Ph.D. in economics or a related field, particularly for more senior or specialized positions.
Continued professional development and staying abreast of advancements in economic theory and methodology are also crucial for progressing in this field.
Economic Research Analyst Education and Training Requirements
Economic Research Analysts typically require a bachelor’s degree in economics, statistics, finance, or a related field.
Their undergraduate studies should focus on subjects such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and economic theory.
In addition to their degree, they should have a solid understanding of data analytics tools and software, such as STATA, SPSS, or SAS.
Some positions, particularly those with a focus on complex economic analysis or those in high-level corporate environments, may require a master’s degree or Ph.D. in economics or a related field.
To enhance their expertise and credibility, Economic Research Analysts can pursue certification programs such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification or the Certified Business Economist (CBE) certification.
These advanced degrees and certifications may also showcase an individual’s commitment to continuous learning and their potential for leadership roles in the future.
Furthermore, strong quantitative skills, critical thinking abilities, and a knack for problem-solving are vital in this role.
Economic Research Analyst Salary Expectations
An Economic Research Analyst earns an average salary of $73,354 (USD) per year.
However, the actual earnings can significantly differ based on factors such as experience, specific industry, educational qualifications, and geographic location.
Economic Research Analyst Job Description FAQs
What skills does an Economic Research Analyst need?
An Economic Research Analyst should have strong analytical skills to interpret complex data and make accurate predictions.
They should be proficient in statistical analysis and economic modeling.
They also need to have excellent written and oral communication skills to report their findings clearly and persuasively.
Knowledge of software programs for data analysis such as SAS, Stata, or R is often required.
Do Economic Research Analysts need a degree?
Yes, Economic Research Analysts usually require at least a bachelor’s degree in Economics, Finance, Statistics, or a related field.
Some employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree or PhD, particularly for more complex roles.
Coursework in statistics and econometrics is highly beneficial.
What should you look for in an Economic Research Analyst resume?
Look for a strong background in economics, mathematics, and statistics.
Experience with data analysis and predictive modeling is crucial.
Also, pay attention to experience with data analysis software like Stata, SAS, or R.
Any experience in research, particularly in economic research, is a strong plus.
Also, consider any publications or presentations the candidate may have, as this indicates their ability to communicate complex economic concepts effectively.
What qualities make a good Economic Research Analyst?
A good Economic Research Analyst should have strong problem-solving skills and a keen eye for detail.
They should be able to work independently but also as part of a team, as they often collaborate with other researchers or analysts.
They should also be curious, always eager to learn about new economic trends and theories.
Patience and tenacity are also important, as research work can sometimes be a long and meticulous process.
What is the career progression for an Economic Research Analyst?
Economic Research Analysts typically start in entry-level roles, then progress to senior analyst positions.
With enough experience, they can become lead analysts or research directors.
Some may choose to pursue academia, becoming professors or lecturers.
Others may decide to move into policy-making roles within governmental organizations.
Their strong quantitative and analytical skills also make them suitable for roles in finance and investment banking.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we delved into the complex and dynamic world of an economic research analyst.
Surprised?
It’s not just about number crunching.
It’s about shaping economic policies and business strategies, one data point at a time.
With our handy economic research analyst job description template and real-world examples, you’re primed to make your mark.
But don’t stop just yet.
Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your pathway to creating detailed job listings or refining your resume to absolute excellence.
Always remember:
Every piece of economic data is part of a larger economic landscape.
Let’s shape that future. Together.
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