Become an Economic Assistant with the Bureau of Labor Statistics in Miami
Are you looking to start a career that directly impacts how the U.S. government understands the economy? The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is currently hiring for an Economic Assistant (Part-Time) in the vibrant Miami, Florida area. This role is perfect for detail-oriented individuals who enjoy field work and want to contribute to the accuracy of the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
Job Responsibilities
As an Economic Assistant, you are the face of the BLS in the field. Your primary duties involve:
- Field Data Collection: Visiting retail, medical, and service establishments to gather price data for consumer goods.
- Housing Surveys: Interviewing property managers and renters to track housing cost trends.
- Digital Data Entry: Using tablet computers to record data precisely and ensure it meets strict quality standards.
- Maintaining Quality: Reviewing your own data entries for internal consistency and compliance with survey requirements.
Comparison: Standard vs. Field Roles
| Feature | Field-Based Economic Assistant | Standard Office Assistant |
|---|---|---|
| Work Environment | Field/Retail locations | Corporate/Government Office |
| Primary Goal | Direct data collection | Administrative support |
| Interaction | Daily public/business contact | Internal team contact |
| Flexibility | High (Field dependent) | Low (Schedule dependent) |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must be U.S. citizens and meet the specific criteria outlined by the agency, including:
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-05 level or equivalent.
- Availability: Must be able to manage a fluctuating schedule (16–32 hours/week) and travel locally in Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties.
- Compliance: Must pass a background investigation and commit to professional development and training.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive hourly wage, ranging from $23.17 to $30.12 per hour. The salary is determined based on qualifications and established federal pay scales.
Benefits
Employees of the Department of Labor gain access to:
- Professional training in data science and statistical methodology.
- A mission-driven environment where your work has national implications.
- Flexibility for individuals seeking part-time engagement.
How to Apply
The application process is straightforward but requires strict attention to detail:
- Prepare a two-page maximum resume.
- Apply via the USAJOBS portal.
- Complete the DOL-specific questionnaire.
- Ensure all supporting documents (like DD214s or transcripts) are uploaded before the deadline.
If you are ready to apply your organizational skills to help the Bureau of Labor Statistics track the pulse of the American economy, this Miami-based role is an excellent start. Submit your application today and take the first step toward a rewarding federal career.
Why This Economic Assistant (Part-Time) Job Matters
Launch a impactful career with the Bureau of Labor Statistics in Miami, helping to capture the data that drives our national economy.
Economic Assistant (Part-Time) Job Overview
The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is seeking a detail-oriented Economic Assistant to join our team in Miami, Florida. This part-time role is essential to our mission, involving the collection of critical data for the Consumer Price Index. You will serve as a representative of the agency, interacting with a diverse range of local businesses and residents to gather accurate pricing and housing information. This is a unique opportunity to gain field experience with a premier federal statistical agency.
Requirements for Economic Assistant (Part-Time)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-05 level.
- Ability to travel to various locations within Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties.
- Availability to work a variable schedule, including days, evenings, and weekends.
- Willingness to travel for mandatory federal training sessions.
- Must pass a background investigation.
- Resume must be limited to two pages.
Preferred Qualifications for Economic Assistant (Part-Time)
- Experience in data collection or statistical reporting.
- Strong oral persuasion skills for interacting with business owners and the public.
- Proficiency in utilizing tablet-based software and electronic data entry forms.
- Demonstrated attention to detail in high-pressure environments.
- Experience with administrative record-keeping.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Opportunity to work for a major federal statistical agency.
- ✓Access to professional federal training and development.
- ✓Competitive hourly compensation.
- ✓Supportive work-life balance through part-time scheduling.
- ✓Eligible for telework based on agency policy and management approval.
💡 How to Apply Economic Assistant (Part-Time) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Economic Assistant (Part-Time) Job
- Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS portal.
- Submit a resume limited to exactly two pages via USAJOBS.
- Click the 'Apply' button on the USAJOBS listing to initiate the process.
- Follow the redirect to the Department of Labor (DOL) application system.
- Complete the vacancy-specific questionnaire and upload required documentation.
- Submit your final application package and complete any required USA Hire assessments as notified.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details the hours worked per week for each job to prove your experience level.
- Save your work frequently to avoid system timeouts.
- Preview the vacancy questions early to prepare your supporting evidence.
- Double-check your document uploads—ensure no files are password-protected.
- Prioritize accuracy over speed in your assessment tests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for full-time conversion?
No, this is a part-time position that does not lead to full-time federal employment.
Do I need to travel for this job?
Yes. This position requires regular travel within Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties for data collection, as well as occasional travel for mandatory training.
What is the work schedule like?
The schedule is flexible and ranges from 16 to 32 hours per week. It is not fixed and requires availability during days, evenings, and weekends.
Is this a remote position?
No. This position requires local travel to visit business and residential units in the Miami area.
What if I have a disability?
The Department of Labor provides reasonable accommodations for the application and assessment process. Please follow the instructions in the job announcement to request support.
Job from Bureau Of Labor Statistics
The Bureau of Labor Statistics, part of the U.S. Department of Labor, is the nation's premier independent statistical agency. We provide the data that shapes national policy, assists business owners in making informed decisions, and helps the American public understand economic trends. Working with the BLS means joining a team dedicated to integrity, accuracy, and public service.
