The Volpe Center seeks entry-level Economists to work with colleagues to provide leaders with information to make policy, programmatic, regulatory, and procurement decisions. The Economic Analysis Division delivers a comprehensive range of economic, equity impact, and industry analyses. Work includes benefit-cost analyses, forecasting, evaluations, and surveys. The work that you do can save lives, save time, support sustainability, promote civil rights, and help make every dollar count!
Recent graduates who sought out and enjoyed a rigorous curriculum and research experience are happiest with our work. Flexibility, creativity, curiosity, a willingness to take initiative, and good social skills are vital for interacting with our sponsors and your colleagues online, in the office, and in the field. Successful entry level candidates (GS-7) often have part time or summer experience as a research assistant. GS-9 candidates ideally have a graduate degree as well as research assistant experience. Experience with and enthusiasm for transportation-related issues is a plus.
MAJOR DUTIES:
-Performs literature reviews of the economics or transportation literature to provide analytical frameworks and information to inform the analysis.
-Develops datasets for econometric analysis, including data cleaning and addressing any data quality issues.
-Performs benefit cost analysis of regulatory, investment or other programmatic options.
-Analyzes data using spreadsheets, including the use of formulas and development of graphs.
-Writes programs in statistical software to calculate descriptive statistics or run regressions.
-Provides assistance and support to senior staff conducting economic analyses of national and local transportation programs.
-Participates in meetings with co-workers and other parties to acquire or provide information and maintain contacts with other transportation professionals working in related areas to exchange information related to various studies.
-Uses effective oral and written communication skills to prepare and present findings and conclusions.
This position is open to both U.S. Citizens and Federal Employees.
ANNOUNCEMENT NUMBER: OST.RVOLPE-2022-0014
ANNOUNCEMENT OPEN DATE: January 25, 2022
ANNOUNCEMENT CLOSE DATE: February 3, 2022 11:59 PM EST