Become a Senior Economist with the IRS: A Guide to the TTPO Role
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is currently accepting applications for the position of Senior Economist within the Large Business and International (LB&I) division. This high-level GS-14 role offers professionals the opportunity to work at the intersection of economic research and international tax policy. If you have a background in economic analysis and transfer pricing, this is a unique opportunity to contribute to the financial integrity of the United States.
Job Responsibilities
As a Senior Economist in the Treaty and Transfer Pricing Operations (TTPO) unit, your responsibilities will include:
- Economic Research: Conducting deep-dive research into tax issues, transfer pricing, and property valuations.
- Technical Advising: Providing expert counsel to Examination Teams and APMA Team Leaders on international tax strategies.
- Documentation: Preparing professional written analyses and delivering oral presentations to taxpayers and foreign authorities.
- Policy Implementation: Formulating research projects and evaluating the effectiveness of tax enforcement strategies.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following baseline criteria:
- A degree in Economics with 21+ semester hours in economics and 3+ hours in statistics, accounting, or calculus.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level.
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship.
- Compliance with tax obligations.
Salary and Comparison
The position offers a competitive salary structure commensurate with the GS-14 scale.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Grade | GS-14 |
| Salary Range | $125,776 - $197,200 per year |
| Locations | Nationwide (Multiple) |
| Status | Direct Hire Authority |
Benefits
Employees of the Treasury Department enjoy extensive benefits, including a comprehensive federal retirement package, health insurance plans, and flexible spending accounts. Additionally, you will be part of an organization that promotes ongoing professional development.
Application Tips
- Resume Precision: Keep your resume exactly at 2 pages. Include specific start/end dates in MM/DD/YYYY format for every entry.
- Readability: Use a standard font like Arial at 10-point size or larger.
- Supporting Documents: Ensure all transcripts are in English. If you have foreign education, include credential equivalency documentation.
Serving as a Senior Economist at the IRS is more than a job—it is a vital role in maintaining global economic transparency. If you meet the criteria and are ready to tackle complex transfer-pricing challenges, visit the USAJobs portal to begin your application process.
Why This Senior Economist - Direct Hire Job Matters
Shape the future of international tax policy as a Senior Economist with the IRS. Join a high-impact team at the forefront of global transfer-pricing analysis.
Senior Economist - Direct Hire Job Overview
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Large Business and International (LB&I) division is seeking talented Senior Economists to join the Treaty and Transfer Pricing Operations (TTPO) team. In this role, you will serve as an authoritative advisor, conducting deep-dive research into transfer pricing, valuation, and complex economic phenomena. You will play a critical role in evaluating international tax issues, reviewing the work of external experts, and providing technical leadership to support the agency's mission of fair and equitable tax administration.
Requirements for Senior Economist - Direct Hire
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Males born after December 31, 1959, must register with the Selective Service System.
- Must undergo a Tax Compliance check and a background investigation (Continuous Vetting/FBI Fingerprint).
- Must obtain and use a Government-issued charge card for business travel.
- Degree in Economics with at least 21 semester hours in economics and 3 semester hours in statistics, accounting, or calculus (or a combination of education/experience).
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level or equivalent.
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Economist - Direct Hire
- Experience applying section 482 of the Internal Revenue Code.
- Knowledge of OECD Transfer Pricing Guidelines.
- Ability to analyze transactions involving tangible/intangible property, services, and risk allocations.
- Demonstrated experience in documenting economic conclusions for technical reports or litigation-related proceedings.
- Proficiency in conducting comparability analyses for financial and operational data.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Health and Life Insurance
- ✓Retirement Savings Programs (FERS/Thrift Savings Plan)
- ✓Paid Leave and Federal Holidays
- ✓Career Development and Training Opportunities
💡 How to Apply Senior Economist - Direct Hire Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Economist - Direct Hire Job
- Review the full job announcement on USAJobs.
- Prepare a resume that specifically details your relevant economic experience (max 2 pages).
- Click the 'Apply Online' button to be redirected to the USA Staffing system.
- Complete the online questionnaire and upload required documentation.
- Submit your application package by the closing date.
- Complete any required USA Hire Assessments if notified.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to 2 pages; exceeding this will result in immediate disqualification.
- Include specific MM/DD/YYYY dates and hours worked per week for every job listed.
- Ensure all transcripts and supporting documents are in English.
- Avoid using links within your resume, as they will not be opened or reviewed.
- Double-check your tax compliance before applying, as failing the tax check will disqualify you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of the TTPO unit?
The Treaty and Transfer Pricing Operations (TTPO) unit focuses on providing expert economic analysis, managing international transfer-pricing examinations, and interpreting complex economic phenomena related to international taxation.
Is federal experience required?
No, prior federal experience is not required. Private sector, public sector, and volunteer experience are considered valid as long as they demonstrate the necessary economic principles.
What is the benefit of the Direct Hire Authority?
*A: The Direct Hire Authority accelerates the hiring process, meaning standard ranking procedures and veterans' preference protocols are not applied in the traditional sense.*
Can I telework in this role?
*A: The announcement notes specific eligibility; please check the latest internal policies regarding telework and alternative work schedules during your interview.*
Job from Internal Revenue Service
The IRS is one of the world's largest financial institutions, processing over 200 million tax returns annually. As a part of the Department of the Treasury, the IRS is tasked with upholding the tax laws with integrity and fairness. Working here provides a sense of public service while offering competitive benefits and a professional environment that challenges your expertise.