Become an Economist with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

Are you ready to influence the policies that shape the American housing landscape? The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is currently seeking a highly skilled Economist to join the Office of Policy Development and Research (PD&R). This is a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of economic theory and public service.

Job Responsibilities

As an Economist (GS-14), your work will have a tangible impact. Key responsibilities include:

Leading Economic Research: Designing and overseeing multiple simultaneous studies on housing affordability and finance.
Policy Advisory: Providing expert recommendations to the Division Director on economic methodology and policy feasibility.
Technical Analysis: Utilizing advanced software like SAS, STATA, or R to conduct econometric analysis.
Stakeholder Communication: Presenting findings to non-technical program staff to ensure research is effectively applied.

Requirements

To be considered for this high-level role, candidates must demonstrate:

One full year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level.
A robust academic background in Economics (21+ semester hours) and statistics/calculus (3+ semester hours).
The ability to pass a moderate-risk background investigation.
U.S. Citizenship.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with federal GS-14 pay standards.

Pay Level	Annual Salary Range
GS-14	$127,829 - $197,200

In addition to the salary, employees enjoy comprehensive benefits, including federal health insurance, a generous retirement plan (FERS), and a high degree of work-life balance through flexible scheduling and telework options.

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Explicitly link your experience to the 'Specialized Experience' criteria in the job announcement.
Formatting Matters: Keep your resume under 2 pages and use standard fonts like Arial or Calibri.
Include Documentation: Ensure your most recent performance appraisal and academic transcripts are attached before hitting submit.

Joining HUD as an Economist is a career-defining move. If you have the technical expertise and the passion for public service, we encourage you to review the full details and apply before the closing date. Help us build stronger, more affordable communities for all Americans.

Why This Economist Job Matters

Influence the future of American housing policy as a Lead Economist at the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Economist Job Overview

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is seeking an expert Economist for the Office of Policy Development and Research (PD&R). This role offers the opportunity to drive national policy by designing high-impact research, analyzing housing finance systems, and providing critical data-driven insights that directly influence housing affordability and community development across the United States.

Requirements for Economist

Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
Must pass a Moderate Risk background investigation.
Must possess a degree in Economics (with at least 21 semester hours in economics and 3 hours in statistics/accounting/calculus) or a combination of education and experience.
One year of specialized experience at the GS-13 grade level.
Proficiency in statistical software (e.g., SAS, SPSS, STATA, RATS).
Must be willing to file a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report.

Preferred Qualifications for Economist

Demonstrated ability to lead simultaneous multi-disciplinary research projects.
Advanced knowledge of simulation modeling and public finance theory.
Strong communication skills for presenting complex economic data to non-technical stakeholders.
Proven experience in developing research designs for housing and urban economics.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Generous paid annual and sick leave.
✓Flexible and alternative work scheduling options.
✓Career advancement and professional development programs.

💡 How to Apply Economist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Economist Job

Log into your USAJOBS account.
Submit a resume formatted in an easy-to-read font (minimum 10pt) not exceeding 2 pages.
Complete the required online assessment questionnaire.
Upload your most recent annual performance appraisal.
Attach official transcripts as proof of educational requirements.
Submit all documents by 11:59 p.m. ET on the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes exact dates (month/day/year) and hours per week for all experience.
Use standard, readable fonts like Arial or Calibri to avoid formatting errors.
If you are a current or former federal employee, ensure your most recent SF-50 is included.
Do not wait until the final hour to submit; account for potential system delays.
Review your resume to ensure it clearly demonstrates how your experience aligns with the specialized experience requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the educational requirement for this role?

You must hold a degree in Economics with at least 21 semester hours in economics and 3 semester hours in statistics, accounting, or calculus, or possess an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Can I work remotely?

This position is telework eligible, but it is not a fully remote position. You must be prepared to report to the selected official duty station.

What does the 'Specialized Experience' involve?

It involves leading economic research studies, utilizing statistical software for econometric analysis, and developing research designs related to housing finance and public policy.

Is a security clearance required?

While a full security clearance is not required, you must successfully complete a moderate-risk background investigation.

Can I apply if I don't have a PhD?

Yes, the requirements focus on specific course hours and relevant experience. A combination of education and experience is acceptable.

Job from Assistant Secretary For Policy Development And Research

HUD is the federal agency dedicated to fostering strong, sustainable, and inclusive communities. The Office of Policy Development and Research is the analytical engine of the department, providing the Secretary with the data and insights necessary to navigate complex housing challenges, from mortgage market fluctuations to urban revitalization.