Launch Your Career with the Bureau of Labor Statistics: Economic Assistant (Part-Time)
Are you looking to make a tangible impact on the U.S. economy? The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is currently seeking a dedicated Economic Assistant to join its team in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This unique part-time opportunity allows you to step into the world of federal labor statistics, contributing to the data that shapes national policy and informs the public.
Job Responsibilities
The Economic Assistant role is focused on the practical application of data collection. Your work is the foundation of the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
- Field Data Collection: Visiting local retail stores, auto dealerships, medical offices, and hotels to collect retail price data.
- Housing Surveys: Contacting apartment management, tenants, and homeowners to gather rent and housing data.
- Data Entry: Utilizing specialized handheld computers and tablet PCs to record information and ensure internal consistency.
- Professional Engagement: Successfully securing voluntary cooperation from busy professionals, store managers, and homeowners through persuasive communication.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet specific federal standards:
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-05 level or equivalent.
- Documentation: A resume limited to exactly two pages.
- Logistics: The ability to travel throughout the assigned counties in Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Comparison Table: Why Choose a BLS Career?
| Feature | Benefits for Employees |
|---|---|
| Mission | Contributes to national economic health |
| Flexibility | Varied hours (16-32 per week) |
| Growth | Promotion potential to GS-07 |
| Impact | Data affects U.S. policy and inflation metrics |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive hourly wage between $23.72 and $30.84. As a part of the Department of Labor, you benefit from a professional environment that prioritizes training, career development, and internal advancement.
Application Tips
Applying to a federal position requires precision. Follow these tips to maximize your chances:
- Strict Compliance: Since the resume limit is two pages, be concise. Focus on quantifiable achievements.
- Detail Matters: Explicitly list hours worked per week for all previous part-time employment.
- Readiness: Be prepared to take the USA Hire assessment, as this is a key component of the federal hiring process.
If you have a knack for data, a love for community engagement, and a desire to serve your country, the Economic Assistant role at the BLS is your perfect entry point. Apply today to start your journey with the Department of Labor.
Why This Economic Assistant (Part-Time) Job Matters
Shape the future of national economic policy by joining the Bureau of Labor Statistics as an Economic Assistant, where your data collection efforts directly influence essential labor market insights.
Economic Assistant (Part-Time) Job Overview
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is seeking a detail-oriented Economic Assistant to support the Division of Price Programs in Minneapolis, MN. This part-time role is essential for gathering critical price data for the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which serves as a vital statistical resource for the U.S. government and the American public. You will bridge the gap between economic data and real-world application by interacting with businesses, managers, and homeowners to collect accurate, high-quality information.
Requirements for Economic Assistant (Part-Time)
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-05 level
- Availability for a flexible schedule including days, evenings, and weekends
- Ability to travel to various business and residential locations in the designated area
- Willingness to travel for mandatory classroom training in Washington, D.C. or other sites
- Submission of a resume limited to two pages
Preferred Qualifications for Economic Assistant (Part-Time)
- Experience in data collection or statistical analysis
- Demonstrated ability to use software for compiling and reporting data
- Strong interpersonal skills to secure voluntary cooperation from survey respondents
- Prior experience in public contact, interviewing, or outreach roles
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal career advancement opportunities
- ✓Comprehensive training programs
- ✓Telework eligibility as determined by agency policy
- ✓Professional development within the Department of Labor
💡 How to Apply Economic Assistant (Part-Time) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Economic Assistant (Part-Time) Job
- Create a USAJOBS account and prepare your two-page resume
- Identify the vacancy and click Apply to begin the application process
- Complete the mandatory Department of Labor online questionnaire
- Upload all required documentation, including transcripts or veterans' preference proofs
- Submit your final package and monitor your email for potential USA Hire assessment instructions
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes start/end months and years for each position
- Specifically state your hours worked per week for part-time experience
- Keep your resume strictly under two pages to avoid immediate disqualification
- Complete the USA Hire assessment as soon as you receive the link
- Verify all application sections are marked with a green checkmark before final submission
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is not a remote position. It requires in-person data collection at various retail establishments and residences in the Minneapolis metropolitan area.
What is the expected schedule?
The position is part-time, typically ranging from 16 to 32 hours per week. Schedules are flexible and may include a mix of days, evenings, and weekends based on workload requirements.
What does the training involve?
Selected candidates must participate in mandatory training, which includes one week of commodity training and one week of advanced data collection, often requiring travel to Washington, D.C.
Does this lead to full-time work?
No, this is a dedicated part-time position and is not an entry-level pathway to a full-time economist role.
What if I have a disability?
The Department of Labor provides reasonable accommodations for applicants throughout the hiring and testing process.
Job from Bureau Of Labor Statistics
The Bureau of Labor Statistics is the principal fact-finding agency for the federal government in the field of labor economics. Operating under the Department of Labor, the BLS is dedicated to collecting, processing, and disseminating essential information. By working here, you aren't just filling a role; you are supporting a mission to protect American workers and provide the data transparency necessary for a thriving economy.