Economist

Economist Position

This is a full-time economist position within the Legislative Office of Economic and Demographic Research. The position has primary responsibility for evaluating state economic development programs and assists in the analysis of fiscal policy proposals. The position operates and maintains economic models of Florida and analyzes, interprets and reports the results of such models. The position also conducts return-on-investment and cost benefit analyses of economic development programs and fiscal policy proposals. The position conducts research, including literature reviews, of economic topics impacting the state's economy.

Examples of work performed include researching, analyzing and evaluating existing and proposed Florida programs involving economic incentives, economic development and fiscal policy; assisting in maintaining and enhancing the statewide economic model; locating and compiling relevant state, local and federal data into a usable format; performing and reviewing economic analyses using the statewide economic model; and performing and reviewing return on investment and cost benefit analyses.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities required include knowledge of economic theory at an advanced level, statistics, forecasting and projection techniques, social science research practices and standards, computer software used in economic models, computer software used in database management and quantitative analysis, basic financial analysis principles, data sources used in economic and demographic analysis, and the law governing the revenues or caseloads being forecast. Additionally, the position requires the ability to plan, organize, and coordinate work assignments, work independently, prepare economic related charts, tables, slides, and other graphic presentations of data, explain and defend forecasts before other forecasters, present technical materials to non-technical audiences in both written and oral forms, work effectively with other staff, work as part of a team, collect, analyze, and interpret economic data, organize economic data into logical format, and communicate effectively orally and in writing.

Minimum qualifications include a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and five years of professional research experience in one or more of the following areas: revenue or caseload forecasting, demographic forecasting; program research for a governmental agency, research institute or consulting firm; or full time instruction and/or research at a college or university in any of the following areas: social sciences, business or public administration, mathematics or statistics. A master's degree from an accredited college or university in economics, business or public administration, mathematics, statistics, or any of the social sciences can substitute for one year of the required experience. A doctorate from an accredited college or university in economics, business or public administration, mathematics, statistics, or any of the social sciences can substitute for two years of the required experience.

Salary is commensurate with experience. The Legislature offers a competitive benefits package.