Lead Economist, EBRC

Department Website Link (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).-research

Location Tucson Campus

Address Tucson, AZ USA

The Eller College of Management at the University of Arizona is seeking a Lead Economist to join the Economic and Business Research Center (EBRC) team. The position will work closely with the EBRC Director to identify, pursue, and secure externally funded economic research projects.

The position will independently lead and manage funded projects, contribute to ongoing EBRC initiatives such as the Making Action Possible (MAP) Dashboard and the Forecasting Project, and produce economic analyses and publications that serve clients, policymakers, and the broader public. This high-visibility role helps grow EBRC's funded research portfolio while contributing to flagship public-facing products. It offers autonomy in project development and the opportunity for professional impact within Arizona.

The EBRC is the go-to source for trusted, forward-looking economic analysis across Arizona, recognized for its cutting-edge digital tools including intuitive websites and a dedicated smartphone app.

• Health, dental, and vision insurance plans
• Life insurance and disability programs
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members
• Retirement plans
• Access to U of A recreation and cultural activities
• And more!

• In collaboration with the EBRC Director, actively identify and pursue external funding opportunities including grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements with government agencies, foundations, and private clients.
• Develop proposals, scopes of work, and budgets in coordination with the EBRC Director.
• Build and maintain relationships with potential clients and funders in Arizona and the broader region.

• Lead and execute funded economic research projects using regional economic impact and forecasting tools including IMPLAN and/or REMI.
• Apply econometric methods and statistical software (EViews, R, or equivalent) to analyze economic trends, impacts, and policy questions.
• Deliver high-quality analyses appropriate to client and project specifications.
• Write reports, briefs, and other publications communicating economic findings to clients and the public.

• Assist with ongoing EBRC initiatives, including revitalizing the Arizona-Mexico Indicators Project, expanding the MAP Dashboard, and supporting the Forecasting Project efforts.
• Responsibilities may include data collection and validation, model support, analysis, and preparation of client deliverables and online materials, presentations, and development of processes to streamline workflow.

• Occasionally present results to clients, government officials, community stakeholders, and professional conferences.
• Translate complex economic concepts for non-specialist audiences.

• Demonstrated experience using IMPLAN and/or REMI for regional economic impact modeling.
• Proficiency with R, SAS, STATA and/or EViews for econometric analysis.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet client deadlines.
• Knowledge updating websites, online content creation, and familiarity with Adobe or similar design software.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

• Master's degree required.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.

• Master's degree in Economics, Applied Economics, or a closely related field; and five years of professional experience conducting applied economic research projects, including demonstrated experience with external funding acquisition.
• Experience with identifying, pursuing, and securing externally funded economic research projects, including grants and contracts.
• Experience with producing policy-relevant reports and presentations.