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The Government Economic Service (GES) is at the heart of decision-making in the UK Government. Our 3,500+ economists work across more than 50 departments and agencies, from HM Treasury to the UK Space Agency! We are the largest employer of economists in the country.
The work of GES economists has been integral to understanding and responding to fast-moving events such as Covid-19, the Russian invasion of Ukraine and changes in financial markets. Economic analysis is central to policymaking on long-term challenges such as climate change, education, biodiversity, and inequality.
What will I do as an Assistant Economist?
As an economist in government, you will have the opportunity to influence how the government responds to the most important public policy challenges of the day. You could be collating and analysing data, providing advice on policy options, and preparing vital briefings for ministers.
As an assistant economist, you will join a vibrant and supportive economics community. You will be supported to develop your economics and wider skills and to build a network of colleagues across government. You will be able to access learning and development within your department and participate in the GES programme of regular events. As your career develops, you will have the opportunity to seek roles across the Civil Service.
Join the GES and put your economics to direct use, keep learning and make a difference. This is work that matters.
Who are we looking for?
We are looking for people who want to make a difference to society.
You should have or be on track to receive a 2:1 or above in a degree that comprises at least 50% economics or a postgraduate degree in economics. You must have studied both micro and macroeconomics. Please see the candidate pack for full eligibility details.
You will have a strong understanding of economic principles and be able to apply them to a wide variety of policy issues. You will be able to interpret academic work and communicate economics insights clearly.
How much will I earn?
Salaries vary according to government department and location, but these are the minimums you would be paid: London £30,000 / Nationwide: £28,000
Where will I work?
This year, we have graduate roles available in: Birmingham, Bristol, Buxton, Cardiff, Coventry, Croydon, Darlington, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, London, Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham, Salford, Sheffield, Pontypridd (Treforest), Wolverhampton, York
What development opportunities will I get?
We take your development seriously and while earning a competitive salary, there will be plenty of support to further your development as an economist. You will broaden your subject knowledge through 50 hours of continuous professional development a year and a further 50 hours on personal skills.
We offer plenty of courses and high-quality training to help you develop:
- Strong quantitative skills: you will become an expert in manipulating and presenting data
- Writing and presentation techniques: communicating economics clearly and succinctly to senior officials and ministers
- Applied economics skills: using economic insights and techniques to inform policy on anything from the environment to transport.
Eligibility
Please see the candidate pack for more information on Eligibility.
Applicants will need
- To possess or expected to have a first or upper second-class honours degree with at least 50% of the modules in economics, or have a masters in economics.
- Modules must have covered both micro and macroeconomics to qualify.
- If you graduated more than five years ago then you must have examples of how you have maintained your economic knowledge on the competency section of the application form.
