Research Economist

Job Description

Established in 1867, the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce's vision is the Economic Empowerment of Every Coloradan. Among Colorado's five oldest continuously operating businesses, the Denver Metro Chamber is uniquely positioned to promote business growth, economic development, strong public policy, and community stewardship in the Metro Denver region and throughout the State of Colorado.

Job Purpose

The Research Economist will analyze macroeconomic and labor market data, identifying trends and assessing skills gaps to inform workforce development strategies. The role involves evaluating the impact of labor market policies, collaborating with various stakeholders, and preparing reports and presentations for diverse audiences. Proficiency in statistical software and strong analytical skills are essential, along with the ability to convey complex data clearly to non-technical audiences.

Duties And Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth analysis of macroeconomic and labor market data and trends, including consumer activity, inflation, workforce trends, employment patterns, job growth, occupational shifts, and wage dynamics.
• Identify and assess skills gaps and mismatches in the labor market, including shortages of specific skills or qualifications and mismatches between job seekers' skills and employers' needs.
• Evaluate the impact of workforce development programs, education and training initiatives, and labor market policies on employment outcomes and economic growth.
• Collaborate with stakeholders from government agencies, educational institutions, industry associations, and community organizations to collect data, exchange insights, and develop evidence-based strategies for workforce development.
• Prepare reports and presentations summarizing research findings and data analysis for diverse audiences, including policymakers, employers, educators, and the general public.
• Stay abreast of emerging trends, innovations, and best practices in workforce development and labor market policies.
• Locate and collect data from standard and specialized federal, state, and local government sites.   
• Manage and manipulate databases, including regular data updating and organizing data in a manner that allows efficient extraction of data and insertion into reports and studies.  
• Research and write a variety of economic and workforce reports based on economic and demographic data. These reports need to convey complex trends and information in a simple, concise manner to a business audience. Reports may require original research and writing or may be generated from templates.  
• Collaborate with and assist other team members with the research, collection, and interpretation or economic data related to our four service areas: Economic and Demographic Research, Industry Studies, Fiscal and Economic Impact Analysis, and Real Estate and Public Finance. Locate and collect data from standard and specialized federal, state, and local sites.
  
  

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Economics or related field;
• 2-3 years of direct work experience
• Demonstrated experience in conducting empirical research and quantitative analysis, preferably in the field of labor economics, workforce development, or related areas.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software such as Stata, R, Python, and/or Microsoft Excel for data manipulation and economic modeling.
• A strong familiarity with national, state, and local economic data sources and their interpretation.  
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights and clear takeaways.
• Detail-oriented data organization and management skills.  
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to convey technical information and research findings to non-technical audiences effectively.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary and fast-paced team environment, managing multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
• Preferred but not required:
• Experience with ArcGIS, IMPLAN, Tableau, and Microsoft Access.
• Experience performing economic impact analysis, economic forecasting and/or policy analysis.
• Previous experience with industry cluster identification and analysis.
• Note: Candidates are encouraged to apply even if they do not meet all listed qualifications, as we value diverse experiences and potential.
  
  

Benefits Summary

The organization has created a workplace culture that allows our team to focus on doing excellent work, we offer the following to support.

Cigna OAP or HDHP Medical Plans,

• Dental
• Vision
• Short-term and long-term disability
• FSA
• HSA
• Paid Holidays
• 401K and match
• Generous paid time off
• Paid time off for charitable activities
• Professional Development
  
  

The Chamber and its affiliates are dedicated to the principles of equal employment opportunity. We prohibit unlawful discrimination against applicants or employees. Employment decisions are made on a non-discriminatory basis, and without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, status as a parent, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, political affiliation, military service, other non-merit-based factors, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Job title

Research Economist

Reports to

Senior Manager of Economic Competitiveness

FLSA Status

Exempt

Salary Range

$58,000 - $78,000

Expected Hours

Full-Time (40 hours/week)