Launch Your Career with the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Are you looking for a rewarding role that directly influences how the U.S. government monitors economic trends? The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is currently hiring an Economic Assistant in Jacksonville, North Carolina. This part-time position offers a unique opportunity to engage with your community while supporting the country's principal fact-finding agency for labor economics.
Job Responsibilities
As an Economic Assistant, your daily routine will be dynamic. You are not confined to a desk; you will spend significant time in the field visiting retail stores, medical offices, and residential neighborhoods. Key duties include:
- Collecting price data on a wide array of commodities and services.
- Interviewing store managers, pharmacists, and property owners.
- Utilizing handheld technology to record data electronically.
- Ensuring high data quality and consistency.
Comparison of Requirements
| Requirement Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Experience | 1 year of specialized work at GS-05 level |
| Schedule | Part-time (16-32 hours/week) |
| Travel | Local travel + mandatory training in D.C. |
| Education | Relevant academic transcripts required if qualifying by education |
Requirements
Applicants must possess a strong foundation in data management and professional communication. You must have one year of specialized experience that demonstrates your ability to compile, report, and maintain data. Please note that a two-page limit on your resume is strictly enforced; applications exceeding this length will be deemed ineligible.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive hourly rate ranging from $21.76 to $28.29 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience.
Benefits
Employees of the Department of Labor are eligible for a robust suite of federal benefits, including health insurance, retirement planning, and opportunities for professional development.
Application Tips
- Be precise: Include the month, year, and weekly hours for every role on your resume.
- Follow formatting: Use the two-page limit strictly.
- Check status: Monitor your application via the online portal to ensure all documents are received.
If you are a detail-oriented professional looking to contribute to the nation's economic data, this role with the Bureau of Labor Statistics is an excellent fit. Apply by the closing date to be considered for this vital federal position.
Why This Economic Assistant (Part-Time) Job Matters
Launch your career in federal economic research with the Bureau of Labor Statistics as an Economic Assistant, where your data-gathering expertise directly impacts national economic policy.
Economic Assistant (Part-Time) Job Overview
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is seeking a motivated professional to join the Atlanta Regional Office as a part-time Economic Assistant in Jacksonville, NC. This role is vital for the collection of critical data used in the Consumer Price Index (CPI). You will perform fieldwork, engage with local businesses and residents, and ensure the integrity of economic statistics that shape the U.S. economy. Please note this is a part-time role ranging from 16 to 32 hours per week and is not an entry-level position for an Economist career track.
Requirements for Economic Assistant (Part-Time)
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-05 level.
- Ability to use computer software for data collection, compilation, and analysis.
- Proven record-keeping and professional communication skills.
- Willingness to travel locally within Onslow County and attend mandatory training in Washington, D.C. or alternate sites.
- Ability to work a flexible part-time schedule (16-32 hours/week) including days, evenings, and weekends.
Preferred Qualifications for Economic Assistant (Part-Time)
- Experience in establishing professional relationships with retail management, healthcare providers, and property owners.
- Proficiency in utilizing handheld technology and electronic survey forms.
- Strong interpersonal skills for obtaining voluntary cooperation from survey respondents.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain data quality and consistency under variable working conditions.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal retirement benefits
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program
- ✓Life insurance options
- ✓Professional training and development opportunities
- ✓Flexible work arrangements including telework where applicable
💡 How to Apply Economic Assistant (Part-Time) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Economic Assistant (Part-Time) Job
- Create a profile on USAJOBS and upload a resume (limited to 2 pages).
- Apply via the USAJOBS portal by clicking the apply button.
- Complete the secondary application and questionnaire on the Department of Labor website.
- Submit all required documentation, including veterans preference forms or transcripts.
- Complete the required USA Hire competency-based assessments if prompted.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes start/end dates (month/year) and average weekly hours for every position listed.
- Do not exceed the two-page limit for your resume; otherwise, your application will be disqualified.
- Save your work frequently to prevent session timeouts.
- Review your application status via the hiring agency's Talent Acquisition System (TAS) dashboard.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents are not password protected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is not a remote role. The position requires regular on-site work and local travel throughout Onslow County, though it is telework-eligible in accordance with agency policy.
Will this role transition into a full-time position?
No, this position is strictly part-time and does not lead to full-time employment.
What is the expected schedule?
The schedule is flexible, typically ranging from 16 to 32 hours per week, and includes a mix of days, evenings, and weekends based on project requirements.
Job from Bureau Of Labor Statistics
The Bureau of Labor Statistics is the statistical arm of the U.S. Department of Labor. Our mission is to provide essential, objective information about the economy, labor market, and price stability. As an Economic Assistant, you become a key part of this mission, ensuring the accuracy of data that directly informs the Consumer Price Index (CPI).