Become a Lead Economist with the Millennium Challenge Corporation
Are you looking to apply your economic expertise to solve real-world problems on a global scale? The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) is hiring a Lead Economist in Washington, D.C., to play a central role in our international assistance efforts.
Job Responsibilities
As a Lead Economist, your primary duties include:
- Cost-Benefit Analysis: You will spearhead the CBA for multi-million dollar investments.
- Growth Diagnostics: You will identify key constraints to economic growth in developing countries.
- Program Design: You will collaborate with country directors to refine project designs based on sound economic modeling.
- Evidence-Based Reporting: You will present complex economic findings to U.S. officials and host-country stakeholders.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following baseline criteria:
| Requirement Type | Specification |
|---|---|
| Education | Degree with 21+ hours in Econ & 3+ hours in Stats/Accounting/Calculus |
| Experience | 1+ year of specialized experience at the GS-13/14 or equivalent level |
| Technical Skills | Proficient in CBA and Growth Diagnostic methodology |
| Status | U.S. Citizen |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $143,915 to $218,089 per year. Final pay is determined by your professional experience, education, and available funding.
Application Tips
Success in the federal hiring process requires precision.
- Customize Your Resume: Clearly document your specialized experience. Avoid copying and pasting the job description, as this will lead to automatic disqualification.
- Check Your Documents: Ensure all transcripts and SF-50 forms (if applicable) are complete.
- Use the Resume Builder: This tool helps you organize your work history into the format that federal HR specialists prefer.
This is a unique opportunity to use your skills as an economist to advance American interests while helping developing nations build sustainable growth. Apply today to begin your journey with the MCC.
Why This Lead Economist, Mc-110-3b/3a Job Matters
Shape global economic development and influence international infrastructure at the highest level of U.S. foreign assistance.
Lead Economist, Mc-110-3b/3a Job Overview
The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) is seeking a Lead Economist to join our Economic Analysis Division. This role is pivotal in guiding the development of large-scale infrastructure and economic modernization projects in developing countries. You will serve as a key subject matter expert, performing critical cost-benefit analyses, leading growth diagnostic research, and providing actionable economic insights that inform strategic foreign assistance investments. This position is ideal for an experienced economist ready to apply advanced theory to real-world international development challenges.
Requirements for Lead Economist, Mc-110-3b/3a
- U.S. Citizenship.
- A degree in economics including at least 21 semester hours in economics and 3 semester hours in statistics, accounting, or calculus, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Proven experience leading research on cost-benefit analysis (CBA) for investments.
- Demonstrated expertise in conducting growth diagnostic research in lower or lower-middle income countries.
- Strong technical writing and verbal communication skills for presenting complex economic data.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a government-issued travel card.
- Must be registered for the Selective Service (if male born after 12/31/1959).
Preferred Qualifications for Lead Economist, Mc-110-3b/3a
- Experience in sector diagnostic studies, including root cause analysis.
- Proficiency in performing beneficiary analysis to support project design.
- Proven track record of working with cross-functional teams to integrate economic logic into program development.
- Advanced ability to translate academic economic literature into actionable policy recommendations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary range within the MCC pay-band system.
- ✓Potential for one-time recruitment or relocation bonuses for qualified candidates.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and global impact.
- ✓Federal leave accrual benefits based on prior experience.
- ✓Access to a dynamic, collaborative team environment.
💡 How to Apply Lead Economist, Mc-110-3b/3a Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Lead Economist, Mc-110-3b/3a Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is no longer than two pages and is specific to the duties described.
- Upload all required documentation, including unofficial transcripts and proof of eligibility if applicable.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Review your application and click 'Submit My Answers' before the deadline of October 9, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Do not copy the job duties verbatim into your resume; provide your own specific examples of relevant experience.
- Ensure your resume clearly quantifies your hours worked for part-time or unpaid experience.
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder for a format that captures necessary information.
- Double-check that all uploaded files have cleared the system virus scan before finalizing.
- Document all your specialized experience clearly to avoid being screened out by the selective placement factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the MCC pay-band system?
MCC uses a pay-band system to compensate employees; this position (3B/3A) is generally comparable to the GS-14/GS-15 pay scale.
Is veterans' preference applied for this role?
No, this position is filled under Direct-Hire Authority (DHA), meaning veterans' preference procedures do not apply.
What should I emphasize in my resume?
Focus on specific, documented examples of your work with cost-benefit analysis and growth diagnostics in developing country contexts.
What is the work environment like?
MCC values collaboration and accountability. You will work in a fast-paced environment where your research directly informs international strategy.
Is telework an option?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework.
Job from Millennium Challenge Corporation
The Millennium Challenge Corporation is an independent U.S. government agency dedicated to reducing global poverty through economic growth. By providing time-limited grants for large-scale infrastructure and policy reform, the MCC promotes transparency and accountability. We are guided by the principle of country ownership, ensuring our partners take the lead in their development paths.