Science · 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
This profile is intended as career exploration guidance based on federal labor data. Actual job requirements, salaries, and opportunities vary by employer and location.
Entry Salary
$37–45k
First 1–2 years
Peak Salary
$82–96k
10+ years experience
Job Outlook
+1.2% · Slower than average
Projected growth of 1.2% from 2024 to 2034; about 1 openings projected per year.
Time to Start
6+ years
College degree typical
Salary data sourced from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2024. Actual compensation varies by location, experience, employer, and specialization.
Research Assistant
Economists
Experienced Economists
Senior Economists
Research Director / Chief Scientist
You prioritize Working Conditions
This career is strongly aligned with Working Conditions — a core work value that shapes how people approach their career decisions.
You're strong in Critical Thinking
Critical Thinking is a top skill for this career, and it plays to what students like you naturally do best.
Good fit for your timeline
This career typically requires a graduate or professional degree, which matches common student preparation goals.
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501 schools offer programs in this career field.
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