Hiring Organization: | Bureau of International Labor Affairs |
Industry: | Government Administration |
Employment Type: | Government Internships |
Date Posted: | 2025-03-12 |
Closing Date: | 2025-04-30 |
Job Location: | USA |
Are you passionate about economic research and its real-world impact on labor policies? If you’re seeking internships or career opportunities that allow you to work on critical global initiatives, the Department of Labor’s International Labor Affairs Bureau (ILAB) may be the perfect fit. This exciting position as an International Economist opens doors to meaningful careers in public service, combining data analysis, policy development, and international collaboration. Here’s everything you need to know about this unique job opportunity and how to apply.
Program Overview:
The International Economist role allows professionals to influence policy decisions impacting global and domestic labor programs. Positioned within the ILAB team, you’ll play a critical role in shaping the agency’s mission, analyzing economic data, and informing policy measures to support economic development.
Key Responsibilities:
- Collaborate with ILAB staff to prepare briefing documents and reports for leadership, including the Secretary and Deputy Secretary of Labor.
- Conduct statistical analysis on complex economic datasets using tools like Excel, Stata, SAS, or R.
- Create visually engaging data dashboards and charts for professional presentations.
- Review primary research literature to assist with ongoing labor and economic studies.
- Sequence and execute international economic research projects using standard methodologies.
- Evaluate economic research produced by external organizations and adapt findings for ILAB program needs.
If supporting international labor initiatives and working at the crossroads of policy and economics fascinates you, this position should be on your radar.
Requirements
The Department of Labor looks for highly skilled candidates that meet the following qualifications:
Basic Academic Requirements:
- A degree in economics, which includes at least 21 semester hours of economics coursework and 3 semester hours in areas like statistics, accounting, or calculus.
- Alternatively, a mix of education and relevant professional experience in economics.
Specialized Experience (GS-11 Level):
To qualify for this position, applicants must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-09 federal service, including:
- Implementing data collection and statistical methods.
- Applying economic analysis and econometric techniques to studies.
Alternatively, a candidate may qualify with a Ph.D. or 3 years of progressively advanced graduate education in economics or a related field. A combination of education and experience also qualifies, provided the applicant meets the required coursework and competencies.
If you are found qualified, you will need to submit a writing sample showcasing your ability to concisely communicate complex information.
Salary and Benefits
Working as an International Economist with the Department of Labor offers competitive compensation within the GS-11 federal pay scale. Salaries vary based on location and qualifications, with additional adjustments for locality pay to account for the cost of living near your duty station.
Benefits Include:
- Comprehensive federal employee healthcare options.
- Participation in retirement savings and pension plans.
- Paid leave, training programs, and potential career growth through the federal employment ladder.
- Telework eligibility based on manager discretion, helping employees strike a work-life balance.
This rewarding position not only offers financial stability but also the chance to learn and grow as part of a vibrant team dedicated to economic research and labor policies.
Skills and Attributes
The ideal candidate for this role will possess the following qualities:
- Strong ability to conduct economic research and work with statistical software.
- Exceptional analytical skills for evaluating labor market trends and program effectiveness.
- Clear and concise communication, both in creating technical reports and collaborating with team members.
- A solid understanding of labor issues and global economic dynamics.
How to Apply
Take the first step toward this amazing career by submitting a thorough job application. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
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Prepare Required Documents:
- Resume: Highlight work experience in economic research, data analysis, and related fields. Be specific about responsibilities, accomplishments, and tools you have used.
- Transcripts: Provide proof of your academic qualifications and completed coursework. Ensure your materials demonstrate the required credits in economics, statistics, and related subjects.
- Writing Sample: Include a professional-level example of economic analysis or policy reporting.
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Application Submission:
Apply directly through the Department of Labor’s job portal. Pay close attention to application deadlines and ensure all required documents are uploaded. -
Follow-Up:
After applying, track the progress of your application via USAJOBS. You may need to complete further assessments or provide additional documentation during the hiring process.
Reminder: This position is being filled through a direct hire authority, which means applications won’t follow the traditional rating system. Instead, those with the strongest qualifications will be referred directly to hiring officials.
Why Choose This Opportunity?
The International Economist position not only offers a chance to contribute to critical labor policies but also serves as a launching pad for careers in global economic analysis. Whether you’re a seasoned economist or a recent graduate looking to build experience, this job provides a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on labor initiatives worldwide.
From working with cutting-edge data tools to presenting findings to federal decision-makers, this role equips economists with experiences that prepare them for leadership roles across public and private sectors.
Are you ready to begin your career with the Department of Labor and help shape the future of labor policies? Apply today and take charge of your professional growth.
For more information and additional opportunities, visit USAJOBS. Start your next chapter with the Department of Labor and make a difference.