Career overview

Economists

O*NET-SOC 19-3011.00

Median pay / yr$115,440
OutlookBelow Average

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. May collect and process economic and statistical data using sampling techniques and econometric methods.

What it takes

The skills, knowledge, and credentials employers look for in Economists.

Skills employers look for

  • Critical ThinkingUsing logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
  • MathematicsUsing mathematics to solve problems.
  • Reading ComprehensionUnderstanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
  • Active ListeningGiving 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 MakingConsidering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

Knowledge areas

  • MathematicsKnowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
  • Economics and AccountingKnowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
  • English LanguageKnowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
  • Computers and ElectronicsKnowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
  • Education and TrainingKnowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
See jobs near you Take the free 5-minute quiz

Not sure this fits? FirstEmbark's free quiz matches you to careers based on what you actually enjoy — no account needed.