Career & Job Readiness

JOB SPOTLIGHT

Economist

Career & Job Readiness >
Economist

RIASEC Code: ICE
Lexile Range: 1370L–1480L
Education Required: Usually master’s or doctoral degree
Expected Salary:
Career Cluster: Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
Career Pathway: Science and Mathematics

Economists 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. They collect, process, and study economic and statistical data in an area of specialization, such as finance, labor, or agriculture. Economists compile, analyze, and report data to explain economic phenomena and forecast market trends, applying mathematical models and statistical techniques. They disseminate research findings through technical reports or scientific articles in journals. They also supervise research projects and students’ study projects.

Key Skills

Critical Thinking — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Mathematics — Using mathematics to solve problems.
Reading Comprehension — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Active Listening — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Judgment and Decision Making — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.