Launch Your Career: Economic Assistant at the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Are you looking for a part-time career that makes a tangible impact on the national economy? The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is currently hiring an Economic Assistant in New York, NY. This unique position places you on the front lines of data collection, helping to inform the Consumer Price Index (CPI)—a vital indicator that influences policy, wages, and national planning.
About the Bureau of Labor Statistics
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is the premier federal agency responsible for measuring labor market activity, working conditions, and price changes in the economy. As an independent statistical agency, the BLS serves Congress, businesses, and the American public by providing objective, accurate information. Joining the BLS means becoming part of a tradition of integrity and excellence.
Job Responsibilities
As an Economic Assistant, you will act as a field representative. Your primary duties include:
- Data Collection: Visiting retail stores, supermarkets, and auto dealerships to collect price data.
- Housing Surveys: Interviewing property managers, tenants, and homeowners to track housing costs.
- Technical Documentation: Using a tablet PC to enter data accurately and ensure consistency with survey requirements.
- E-commerce Monitoring: Tracking retail prices through online channels.
Requirements
Candidates must meet specific criteria to be considered for this role:
| Requirement Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Experience | 1 year of specialized experience at the GS-05 level or equivalent. |
| Availability | Ability to work 16-32 hours weekly, including days, evenings, and weekends. |
| Mobility | Ability to perform local travel within NYC boroughs and travel for out-of-state training. |
| Documentation | A strictly limited two-page resume detailing work history and hours. |
Salary and Benefits
The hourly pay for this position ranges from $25.64 to $33.33. In addition to competitive compensation, employees benefit from professional development, specialized training in data collection methodology, and the opportunity to support a mission-critical federal agency.
Application Tips
To ensure your application is successful, keep these tips in mind:
- Mind the Page Limit: The two-page resume requirement is absolute. Do not exceed it.
- Specify Your Hours: Clearly state the average weekly hours for every job listed on your resume.
- Prepare for Assessment: You may be asked to complete a USA Hire assessment. Use the practice materials provided by the OPM resource center.
Working as an Economic Assistant at the BLS is an excellent way to contribute to the nation’s economic understanding while enjoying a flexible, part-time schedule. If you are ready to apply your attention to detail to the service of the public, submit your application before the closing date.
Why This Economic Assistant (Part-Time) Job Matters
Launch a vital career with the Bureau of Labor Statistics—where your data collection skills shape the economic pulse of the United States.
Economic Assistant (Part-Time) Job Overview
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), an essential arm of the Department of Labor, is seeking a part-time Economic Assistant in New York, NY. This role is a cornerstone of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) program, responsible for gathering accurate retail, service, and housing data that informs national economic policy. If you possess a keen eye for detail, strong communication skills, and the flexibility to work a variable part-time schedule, this is a unique opportunity to contribute to one of the most respected statistical agencies in the world.
Requirements for Economic Assistant (Part-Time)
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-05 level.
- Ability to work a variable schedule (16-32 hours per week) including days, evenings, and weekends.
- Willingness to travel locally within Bronx, Kings, New York, Queens, and Richmond counties.
- Ability to travel to Washington, D.C. or other training sites for mandatory initial classroom instruction.
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Completion of a two-page maximum resume detailing work hours and relevant experience.
- Must pass a background investigation for facility and system access.
Preferred Qualifications for Economic Assistant (Part-Time)
- Demonstrated proficiency in data collection, compilation, and analysis.
- Strong interpersonal skills for conducting professional interviews with store managers, buyers, and property owners.
- Experience using tablet PCs and electronic data collection software for accurate record-keeping.
- Excellent stress tolerance and ability to maintain integrity in professional settings.
- Strong reading comprehension and oral persuasion skills.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive hourly compensation.
- âś“Opportunity to work for a major federal agency.
- âś“In-depth professional training on price data and statistical methodologies.
- âś“Exposure to diverse retail and business sectors.
- âś“Telework eligibility (as determined by management).
đź’ˇ How to Apply Economic Assistant (Part-Time) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Economic Assistant (Part-Time) Job
- Register for a USAJOBS account and prepare your two-page resume.
- Apply through the USAJOBS portal to initiate your application.
- Complete the mandatory Department of Labor (DOL) application progress steps.
- Answer all vacancy-specific questions and upload required documentation.
- Complete the USA Hire assessment (if notified) within the required timeframe.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly lists the month and year of employment, along with the average hours worked per week for every position.
- Stick strictly to the two-page limit for your resume, as longer submissions will be automatically disqualified.
- Prepare for the USA Hire assessment by reviewing resources on the official OPM portal.
- Save your progress frequently while filling out the online questionnaire to avoid timeout issues.
- Double-check that all required documents (e.g., transcripts, DD214) are uploaded in the correct format before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a full-time position?
No, this is a part-time position requiring between 16 and 32 hours per week, with an average of 28 hours.
Can I work from home?
This is not a remote position. The role requires regular field visits to retail stores and residences, and the employee must report to an assigned office as needed, though limited telework may be possible based on agency policy.
What kind of travel is involved?
Local travel throughout the five boroughs of New York is expected. Additionally, you may need to travel to Washington, D.C., or other locations for mandatory training sessions.