Economist (Recent Graduate)

About the Role

The Bureau of Economic Analysis is seeking bright, innovative, results-oriented individuals to join our Recent Graduates Program (RGP). This is a one-year program for individuals who have recently graduated from qualifying educational institutions or programs. Successful applicants will be placed in a dynamic, one-year career development program with formal training, job assignments, and a mentor. Positions are at entry levels (band I/II/III), with an opportunity for permanent appointment upon successful completion.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepares estimates and analyzes data trends and economics.
• Collaborates with others on joint or team projects under strict deadlines.
• Communicates verbally and in writing to analyze/explain economic data, methods, or topics.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Must be a U.S. Citizen.
• Suitable for Federal employment.
• Registered for Selective Service if applicable.
• Must sign a Pathways Agreement.
• Position is in the Excepted Service.
• Relocation expenses may not be paid.
• A probationary period may be required.
• Position may be eligible for telework (additional criteria required).
• This is a NON-BARGAINING unit position.
• Open continuous announcement with initial referral cutoff 10/26/2026, followed by 11/14/2026, 12/14/2026, and 1/14/2027.

Qualifications

Basic Entry Requirements

• Must be a Recent College Graduate from qualifying institutions within two years of degree or certification.
• Veterans have up to six years to apply due to military service obligation.
• Students with a transcript showing a degree confer date on or before December 31, 2026, will be considered.
• Graduation/expected graduation date MUST be indicated on your resume.
• MUST submit a copy of college transcripts to show proof of meeting basic entry requirements.

Minimum Education Requirements

• Degree in economics, that included at least 21 semester hours in economics and 3 semester hours in statistics, accounting, or calculus.
• OR Combination of education and experience: courses equivalent to a major in economics, plus appropriate experience or additional education.

Examples of Qualifying Experience

• Individual economic research assignments requiring planning, information assembly, analysis, evaluation, conclusions, and report preparation.
• Supervisory or project coordination assignments involving a staff of professional economists and requiring the evaluation and interpretation of economic information.
• Teaching assignments in a college or university that included class instruction in economics subjects and either personal research with evidence of results, direction of graduate theses in economics, or service as a consultant/advisor on technical economics problems.

Note: Experience in related fields not involving the use and understanding of economic principles and theories may not qualify. Special attention should be given to determining if the following work provided professional economic experience: economic statistics, industrial surveys, management of individual business enterprises (including farms), industrial planning, writing/editorial work in economic subjects, and financial market analysis.

Specialized Experience (For Band 2 / GS-09)

• One year of experience at a level of difficulty and responsibility equivalent to Band 2 (GS-07) in the Federal service.
• Experience includes:
• Using computer software programs.
• Compiling and assembling statistical material.
• Evaluating and interpreting economic information to ensure data quality.
• Identifying data discrepancies and irregularities.
• Collecting and analyzing economic data from a primary or variety of sources.
• Managing assignments in an academic or professional environment.

OR

• 2 years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a master's degree or a master's or equivalent graduate degree.

Additional Information

• A USA Hire assessment is required within 48 hours of receiving the email notification.
• Commitment to improving Federal government efficiency, the ideals of the American republic, and upholding the rule of law and the U.S. Constitution is expected.
• Federal employment offers a comprehensive benefits package; eligibility depends on position type.