What are the chances of getting a job?

Job opportunities for economists are good, but have decreased since the recession.

Economists may do some or all of the following, depending on their area of specialisation:

- collect, study and analyse information on the economy or a specific part of the economy

- make predictions on the economy or parts of the economy based on their research

- develop economic policies and plans

- use computer software to predict economic behaviour

- study and explain economic events

- advise the Government and businesses

- write reports and give presentations.

Economists may specialise in researching a particular area, such as health, infrastructure, or the labour market.

Training on the job

Skills are gained on the job. External training courses may be provided in:

project management

communications

report writing

public speaking

econometrics (the study of economic theory and statistics

together)

job-specific computer courses.

Opportunities may also be available to do postgraduate study.

Useful Experience

Useful experience for economists includes having worked as an:

accountant

journalist

actuary.

Work in the public sector or in management is also useful, as is any public speaking experience.

Working Conditions

Economists work in quiet office environments in businesses, government departments and universities. They may travel to present economic information to clients, carry out research, and attend conferences and meetings. They may also travel overseas to attend conferences or to do contract work in developed or developing countries.

Hours

Economists usually work regular, but flexible hours and have to be prepared to work overtime to meet project deadlines.

Contact with people

Depending on the organisation they work for, economists can work independently and in teams. Many supervise small groups. Economists also interact with other economists, statisticians, policy analysts and accountants.

Career Progression

Many economists change organisations to develop their professional experience and expand their networks and skills.
Economists can go on to work as:

politicians

academics

analysts

business managers and strategists.

Economist - Meet people in this job

Fiona Stokes – Economist:

Fiona Stokes is an economist for BERL, a private economic research company that works with clients including government departments, regional councils and private businesses.

Getting out in the field

Fiona Stokes is keen to dispel the myth that being an economist means you are bound to a desk.

“We’re based in Wellington, but I have clients nationwide and we do a reasonable amount of travelling. Last week I was in Whakatane, next week I’m going to be in Dunedin – I’m away somewhere at least two or three times a month.

“Because of that you get to meet a variety of people – from people who are running their own companies to city councillors.”

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