Launch Your Career as an Economist with the Department of Homeland Security

Are you an analytical professional looking to make a tangible impact on the nation's regulatory landscape? The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), specifically the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Office of the Principal Legal Advisor (OPLA), is hiring a GS-13 Economist. This high-impact role allows you to influence federal policies and ensure fiscal responsibility through expert economic analysis. If you possess the technical expertise to bridge the gap between complex data and federal regulation, this is a unique opportunity to serve your country.

Job Responsibilities

As an Economist within the Regulatory Affairs Unit, you will:

Draft and review cost-benefit analyses for federal regulations under Executive Order 12866.
Collaborate with internal program offices to gather and analyze economic data.
Provide technical guidance to external contractors regarding economic study development.
Ensure that all regulatory documentation meets stringent federal standards for quality and accuracy.

Comparison: Standard vs. Specialized Requirements

Category	Requirement Level
Education	Economics degree with 21+ sem hours in Econ/Stats/Accounting
Experience	1 year at GS-12 equivalent level
Professionalism	Must pass drug testing and background check

Requirements

To qualify for this GS-13 position, you must meet basic academic requirements in economics and hold at least one year of specialized experience. You must be able to demonstrate your ability to identify regulatory improvements and implement findings into actionable policy. Strong attention to detail and clear, concise communication are essential.

Salary Overview

This position offers a robust federal salary range of $121,785 to $158,322 per year. This compensation reflects the high level of technical responsibility and specialized knowledge required for the role.

Benefits

Employees of the DHS enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:

Healthcare: Extensive options for medical, dental, and vision insurance.
Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Flexibility: Telework options and flexible scheduling.
Development: Access to ongoing professional training, tuition reimbursement, and wellness programs.

Application Tips

To maximize your chances of success, ensure your resume is limited to two pages. Avoid copying and pasting jargon from the job posting; instead, use your own words to describe your accomplishments. Always double-check your application for legibility, as illegible documents will lead to disqualification.

This role is an excellent fit for economists who want to apply their skills in a meaningful, public-facing environment. By joining the ICE Regulatory Affairs Unit, you contribute to a safer, more efficient nation. Prepare your application materials, highlight your specialized analytical experience, and apply today.

Why This Economist Job Matters

Shape federal policy at the intersection of law and economics—join the Department of Homeland Security as an Economist.

Economist Job Overview

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Office of the Principal Legal Advisor (OPLA) is seeking a skilled Economist for a GS-13 position in Washington, D.C. This role focuses on supporting the Regulatory Affairs Unit by conducting rigorous cost-benefit and regulatory flexibility analyses in accordance with Executive Order 12866. You will serve as a key technical resource, coordinating data, drafting regulatory documents, and collaborating with internal program offices and external contractors to ensure the effectiveness of federal immigration and security policies.

Requirements for Economist

Degree in economics including at least 21 semester hours in economics and 3 semester hours in statistics, accounting, or calculus.
Combination of education and experience equivalent to a major in economics.
One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level or equivalent.
Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Ability to pass a pre-employment drug test and background investigation.
Submission of a concise, two-page resume following specific federal formatting guidelines.

Preferred Qualifications for Economist

Proven track record in conducting complex economic analysis for municipal, state, or federal regulations.
Experience identifying areas for regulatory improvement and implementing effective policy changes.
Demonstrated ability to coordinate with external contractors on economic studies.
Advanced understanding of Executive Order 12866 and federal rulemaking processes.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
✓Federal retirement plan and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
✓Paid federal holidays and personal leave days
✓Flexible work schedules and telework eligibility
✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development programs
✓Access to fitness centers and wellness programs

💡 How to Apply Economist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Economist Job

Create or update your USAJOBS account.
Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
Prepare a two-page resume detailing relevant experience and specific duties.
Submit your resume, academic transcripts, and required supporting documentation (e.g., SF-50, DD-214) online.
Monitor your email for a unique link to complete the USA Hire assessment.
Submit all materials by the closing date of July 29, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume strictly to two pages; only the first two pages are reviewed.
Be specific—avoid copying the job announcement text verbatim into your resume.
Ensure your transcript clearly lists coursework if you are qualifying based on education.
Set aside at least two hours to complete the USA Hire assessment once you receive the link.
Double-check your email address to ensure you receive timely notifications regarding your application status.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of this economist role?

The role centers on the Regulatory Affairs Unit, where you will conduct cost-benefit analyses, draft regulations, and evaluate economic impacts of federal policies under Executive Order 12866.

Is this position eligible for remote work?

The position is listed as telework-eligible, though it is not a fully remote position. You will be based in Washington, D.C.

Can I submit my application via email?

No, applications must be submitted through the official federal portal. Email or mailed submissions will not be accepted.

Job from Immigration And Customs Enforcement

ICE is the principal investigative arm of the DHS and the second-largest investigative agency in the federal government. Tasked with protecting the U.S. from cross-border crime and illegal immigration, the agency relies on a diverse, skilled workforce. Joining ICE means working for an organization that values integrity, innovation, and public service.