Are you struggling to land interviews for economist positions despite your analytical expertise and advanced qualifications? You’re not alone. Many talented economists find themselves overlooked simply because their resume doesn’t effectively showcase their ability to translate complex economic data into actionable insights that Australian government agencies, financial institutions, and consulting firms desperately need.
Whether you’re a recent PhD graduate seeking your first economist role, transitioning from academia to industry, or re-entering the workforce after further study, crafting a compelling economist resume is your gateway to securing interviews with leading economic research institutions, central banks, and policy organisations across Australia. This comprehensive guide will walk you through creating a professional resume that highlights your quantitative analysis skills, economic modelling expertise, and policy research capabilities – all tailored specifically for the Australian economic sector.
From understanding the preferred resume formats used by Australian government departments to showcasing your experience with econometric software, research methodologies, and economic forecasting, we’ll cover everything you need to know. You’ll discover how to present your research publications, highlight relevant qualifications, and create a professional summary that immediately captures the attention of chief economists and hiring managers looking for their next economic analyst.
Economist Resume (Text Version)
Dr. Sarah Chen
Senior Economist
Phone: 0456 890 123
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sarahchen-economist
Address: Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 2600
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Results-driven Senior Economist with 8+ years of experience in macroeconomic analysis, policy research, and quantitative modelling across government and private sector environments. Expertise in econometric analysis, forecasting, and translating complex economic data into strategic recommendations for senior leadership. Proven track record of contributing to major policy decisions affecting $50B+ in government expenditure. Skilled in advanced statistical software including R, Stata, and EViews, with strong background in labour economics, monetary policy, and fiscal analysis.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Senior Economist | Reserve Bank of Australia | January 2020 – Present
• Lead macroeconomic analysis and forecasting for monetary policy decisions, contributing to quarterly Statement on Monetary Policy publications
• Develop and maintain DSGE models for inflation and employment forecasting, improving forecast accuracy by 18% over 3-year period
• Conduct research on labour market dynamics and wage growth, publishing findings in RBA Research Discussion Papers
• Present economic analysis and policy recommendations to senior management and board members at monthly briefings
• Collaborate with international central banks and IMF economists on global economic surveillance and policy coordination
• Supervise team of 3 junior economists and research assistants in conducting specialised economic research projects
Economist | Australian Treasury | March 2018 – December 2019
• Provided economic analysis supporting federal budget preparation and fiscal policy development across multiple portfolio areas
• Analysed economic impacts of proposed policy changes, contributing to decisions affecting $25B in annual government spending
• Developed econometric models to assess labour market policies, leading to refinements in employment services programs
• Prepared briefing materials and economic assessments for ministerial offices and senior departmental leadership
• Coordinated with state treasury departments and international organisations on economic data collection and analysis
Research Economist | Australian National University | June 2016 – February 2018
• Conducted independent research on housing market dynamics and urban economics, securing $180K in competitive research funding
• Published 8 peer-reviewed articles in leading economic journals including Economic Record and Australian Economic Review
• Taught undergraduate econometrics and macroeconomic theory courses to 200+ students per semester
• Collaborated with international researchers on comparative housing policy studies across OECD countries
• Presented research findings at 12+ academic conferences and policy forums
EDUCATION
Doctor of Philosophy (Economics) | University of Melbourne | 2016
Dissertation: “Monetary Policy Transmission Mechanisms in Small Open Economies”
Relevant coursework: Advanced econometrics, macroeconomic theory, monetary economics, time series analysis
Master of Economics | Australian National University | 2012
First Class Honours
Thesis: “Labour Market Flexibility and Wage Determination in Australia”
Bachelor of Economics (Honours) | University of Sydney | 2010
University Medal, First Class Honours
TECHNICAL SKILLS & SOFTWARE
• Advanced econometric software: R, Stata, EViews, SAS, MATLAB
• Programming languages: Python, SQL, VBA
• Economic modelling: DSGE models, VAR analysis, time series forecasting
• Database management: FRED, Bloomberg Terminal, Reuters Eikon
• Statistical analysis and data visualisation
• Research methodology and experimental design
PUBLICATIONS & RESEARCH
• “Inflation Expectations and Monetary Policy Effectiveness” – Economic Record (2023)
• “Housing Market Cycles and Macroeconomic Stability” – RBA Research Discussion Paper (2022)
• “Labour Market Adjustment in Post-Pandemic Recovery” – Australian Economic Review (2021)
• 12 additional peer-reviewed publications and working papers
PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS
• Recipient of Young Economist Award – Economic Society of Australia (2019)
• Led development of nowcasting model adopted across RBA economic analysis
• Economic analysis contributed to major monetary policy decisions during COVID-19 crisis
What is The Best Format for an Economist Resume?
For economist positions in Australia, the reverse chronological format is highly recommended as it clearly demonstrates your career progression from academic research through to senior analytical roles. This format allows hiring managers to quickly assess your most recent economic analysis experience and understand how your expertise has developed across different economic institutions and research areas, which is crucial in a field where experience with specific economic models and policy areas is highly valued.
Font and Typography Guidelines:
• Heading Font: Use 18-22pt for your name and 14-16pt for section headings
• Body Font: Stick to 10-12pt for all body text to ensure readability
• Font Style: Professional fonts like Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri convey analytical precision essential in economic work
• Margins: Maintain 1-inch margins on all sides to provide adequate white space
• File Type: Always submit as PDF unless specifically requested otherwise, as this preserves formatting across different systems
Essential Resume Sections:
Header: Include your full name, phone number, professional email address, LinkedIn profile, and city/state. For senior economists, consider including your academic title (Dr.) if you hold a PhD, as this credential is highly valued in the field.
Summary: Provide a compelling 3-4 line overview highlighting your economic analysis experience, research specialisations, technical skills, and notable policy contributions. This section should immediately establish your credibility as an economic professional.
Experience: List your work history in reverse chronological order, emphasising quantitative analysis responsibilities, research outcomes, policy contributions, and measurable impacts of your economic work.
Education: Include your economics qualifications, particularly advanced degrees, thesis topics, and relevant coursework. Academic credentials are crucial in economics careers.
Other Sections: Consider adding publications, technical skills, professional memberships (such as Economic Society of Australia), and relevant awards or grants received.
What Experience Should Be on Your Economist Resume?
Your experience section should emphasise your ability to conduct rigorous economic analysis, develop models and forecasts, and translate complex data into policy recommendations that inform decision-making. Focus on quantifiable achievements that demonstrate your impact on organisational outcomes, policy development, and economic understanding. Australian employers value experience with local economic conditions, policy frameworks, and the ability to work within government and regulatory environments.
Highlight specific areas of economic expertise you’ve developed (macroeconomics, labour markets, public finance), types of analysis you’ve conducted, and any experience with Australian economic institutions, data sources, and policy processes. Include metrics around research output, forecast accuracy, and policy influence that showcase your effectiveness as an economist.
Correct Example:
Principal Economist | Australian Competition and Consumer Commission | February 2019 – Present
• Lead economic analysis for merger reviews and market studies, contributing to decisions affecting markets worth $15B+ annually
• Develop competitive effects models and conduct econometric analysis of pricing behaviour, improving analytical frameworks used across ACCC
• Provide expert economic testimony in Federal Court proceedings, with analysis supporting successful outcomes in 8/10 major cases
• Collaborate with legal teams to translate complex economic analysis into compelling arguments for regulatory action
• Publish research on competition policy effectiveness, with findings cited in parliamentary inquiries and policy reviews
• Mentor junior economists in advanced analytical techniques and regulatory economic principles
Incorrect Example:
Economist | Government Agency | 2019 – Present
• Did economic analysis
• Worked on projects
• Used statistics
• Wrote reports
• Attended meetings
Entry-Level Economist Resume Samples [Experience]
For entry-level positions, focus on relevant academic research, internship experiences, and any economic analysis projects completed during your studies. Emphasise your technical skills, theoretical knowledge, and any practical application of economic principles.
Correct Example:
Graduate Economist | Productivity Commission | February 2024 – Present
• Support research projects examining regulatory impacts on Australian industries, contributing to major inquiry reports
• Conduct literature reviews and data analysis using Stata and R for productivity measurement and international comparisons
• Assist with stakeholder consultations and draft technical appendices for public inquiry submissions
• Develop econometric models under supervision to analyse relationship between regulation and business investment
• Apply advanced economic theory from PhD studies to practical policy analysis and evidence-based recommendations
• Coordinate with senior economists on data collection and validation for multi-year industry studies
Incorrect Example:
Junior Economist | Government Office | 2024
• New to working as economist
• Still learning about policy work
• Help with research sometimes
• Use computer programs
• Read economic reports
How to Write the Education Section for your Economist Resume
The education section is crucial for economists, as advanced qualifications are typically essential for professional roles in Australia. Most economist positions require at minimum an Honours degree in Economics, with many senior roles preferring PhD qualifications. Your educational background demonstrates your theoretical foundation, research capabilities, and specialised knowledge areas.
Include your degrees, institutions, graduation dates, thesis topics (particularly for Honours and PhD), and relevant coursework that applies to economic analysis. If you’ve completed additional training in econometric methods, policy analysis, or specialised economic software, highlight these to show your technical competency. Many Australian economic institutions value ongoing professional development and continuing education.
Economist Resume Example [Education]
Doctor of Philosophy (Economics) | Monash University | 2022
Dissertation: “Central Bank Communication and Financial Market Volatility: Evidence from Australia and New Zealand”
Relevant coursework: Advanced econometrics, monetary theory, financial economics, time series analysis, experimental economics
Bachelor of Economics (Honours Class I) | University of Melbourne | 2018
Honours Thesis: “The Phillips Curve Relationship in Australia: Structural Breaks and Non-linearities”
Relevant coursework: Mathematical economics, macroeconomic theory, microeconometrics, public economics, international trade
Professional Development:
• Advanced Time Series Econometrics Workshop – Australian National University (2023)
• Monetary Policy Implementation Seminar – Reserve Bank of Australia (2022)
• Behavioural Economics and Policy Design Course – Behavioural Economics Group (2021)
How to Write the Skills Section for your Economist Resume
The skills section of your economist resume should strategically balance technical analytical competencies with communication and research abilities that Australian economic institutions prioritise. Aim for 12-16 carefully selected skills that demonstrate your comprehensive capability as an economist who can conduct rigorous analysis while effectively communicating findings to diverse audiences. Focus on skills that reflect current industry standards and technology used in Australian economic analysis.
This section should complement your experience by highlighting specific software proficiencies, analytical methodologies, and communication skills that contribute to successful economic research and policy development.
Economist Resume Skills (Hard Skills)
• Advanced econometric analysis using R, Stata, EViews, and SAS
• Macroeconomic modelling including DSGE and VAR frameworks
• Time series analysis and forecasting methodologies
• Statistical programming in Python, MATLAB, and SQL
• Economic data analysis and visualisation
• Financial market analysis and derivatives pricing
• Policy impact assessment and cost-benefit analysis
• Research methodology and experimental design
• Database management and data mining techniques
• Mathematical optimisation and computational economics
• Survey design and analysis for economic research
• Bloomberg Terminal and financial data platforms
Economist Resume Skills (Soft Skills)
• Clear written communication of complex economic concepts to non-economists
• Oral presentation skills for academic and policy audiences
• Critical thinking and problem-solving in economic analysis
• Attention to detail in data analysis and model validation
• Project management and research coordination
• Collaborative teamwork in multidisciplinary policy environments
• Adaptability to changing economic conditions and policy priorities
• Intellectual curiosity and continuous learning mindset
• Time management in deadline-driven research environments
• Cultural awareness in international economic analysis
• Leadership and mentoring capabilities for junior staff
• Public speaking and media communication skills
How to pick the best Economist skills:
1. Analyse the job description thoroughly and identify specific skills mentioned by the employer, particularly those related to analytical methods, software requirements, or policy areas they focus on.
2. Match your skills to institutional type – central banks value monetary policy expertise, while government departments may prioritise public finance and program evaluation skills.
3. Emphasise current analytical tools and methods such as machine learning applications in economics, big data analysis, and modern econometric techniques increasingly used in Australian economic institutions.
4. Include both technical and communication competencies that demonstrate your ability to conduct sophisticated analysis while making findings accessible to policymakers and stakeholders.
5. Highlight specialised knowledge areas relevant to Australian economic conditions, such as resource economics, labour market analysis, or international trade that align with Australia’s economic priorities.
Economist Resume Examples [Skills]
Analytical Skills:
• Econometric modelling – Developed DSGE model for small open economy forecasting, improving policy simulation accuracy by 22%
• Statistical programming – Automated data processing workflows in R and Python, reducing analysis time by 40% for quarterly reports
• Time series analysis – Applied advanced forecasting techniques achieving RMSE improvements of 15% in inflation predictions
Policy Analysis Skills:
• Impact assessment – Conducted cost-benefit analysis of labour market programs affecting 200K+ participants annually
• Regulatory economics – Analysed competitive effects of proposed mergers in telecommunications sector worth $8B+ in market value
Communication Skills:
• Technical writing – Published 15 peer-reviewed articles and 25 policy briefs with average citation rate 40% above field median
• Stakeholder engagement – Delivered economic analysis presentations to parliamentary committees and senior government officials
Should I Add Bonus Sections to My Economist Resume?
Additional sections can significantly strengthen your economist resume by demonstrating research productivity, professional recognition, and specialised expertise that distinguish you from other candidates. These sections are particularly valuable in the Australian economics profession, where research output, policy influence, and professional networking are highly regarded by employers.
Publications & Research: Peer-reviewed articles, working papers, and research reports demonstrate your analytical capabilities and contribution to economic knowledge. This is especially important for research-oriented positions.
Technical Skills: Detailed software proficiency, programming languages, and specialised analytical tools show your technical competency and ability to conduct modern economic analysis.
Professional Associations: Membership in organisations like the Economic Society of Australia, Royal Economic Society, or American Economic Association shows professional engagement and networking.
Awards & Grants: Research grants, academic awards, and professional recognition provide concrete evidence of your research quality and peer recognition.
Conference Presentations: Speaking engagements at academic conferences and policy forums demonstrate your research dissemination and thought leadership.
Languages: Foreign language skills can be valuable for international economic analysis or working with multicultural Australian communities.
Economist Resume Examples [Other Sections]
Correct Example:
PUBLICATIONS & RESEARCH
• “Monetary Policy Transmission in Australia: Evidence from High-Frequency Data” – Journal of Monetary Economics (2023)
• “Housing Market Dynamics and Macroprudential Policy” – Economic Record (2022)
• “Labour Market Scarring Effects: A Natural Experiment Analysis” – Australian Economic Papers (2021)
• 8 additional peer-reviewed publications and 12 working papers
GRANTS & AWARDS
• Australian Research Council Discovery Early Career Researcher Award – $350K (2021-2024)
• Young Economist Award – Economic Society of Australia (2020)
• Best Paper Award – Australian Conference of Economists (2019)
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS
• Member, Economic Society of Australia (2015 – Present)
• Member, Royal Economic Society (2018 – Present)
• Associate Member, Australian Academy of Social Sciences (2022 – Present)
CONFERENCE PRESENTATIONS
• Keynote Speaker: “Post-Pandemic Economic Recovery” – Australian Conference of Economists (2023)
• Presenter: Multiple presentations at RBA Annual Research Conference, Econometric Society meetings
Incorrect Example:
OTHER THINGS
• Have published papers
• Member of economic groups
• Won some awards
• Good at using software
• Speak multiple languages
• Live in Canberra
Tip: Include relevant interests that demonstrate qualities valuable to economic work, such as data science projects that show analytical curiosity, policy advocacy that demonstrates public engagement, or international experience that reflects global economic perspective.
How to write an Economist Resume Objective or Resume Summary
Your professional summary is crucial for economists as it must immediately establish your analytical expertise, research capabilities, and policy impact. This 3-4 line section should highlight your economic analysis experience, specialised knowledge areas, technical skills, and the unique value you bring to informing economic policy and organisational decision-making.
For experienced economists, focus on quantifiable research outcomes, policy contributions, and leadership in economic analysis projects. Recent graduates should emphasise their advanced education, research experience, technical competencies, and enthusiasm for applying economic theory to practical policy challenges. Always tailor your summary to reflect the specific economic focus and analytical requirements mentioned in the job advertisement.
Key elements to include:
• Years of economic analysis experience and institutional settings
• Specific areas of economic expertise and research specialisation
• Notable research contributions, publications, or policy impacts
• Technical skills and analytical methodologies mastered
• Commitment to evidence-based policy development and economic research
Economist Resume Summary Examples
Correct Example:
Distinguished Senior Economist with 10+ years of experience in macroeconomic analysis and monetary policy research across central banking and academic institutions. Expert in DSGE modelling, inflation forecasting, and labour market analysis, with research published in top-tier journals and directly informing RBA policy decisions. Proven track record of leading cross-functional teams and developing innovative analytical frameworks that have improved economic forecasting accuracy by 25%. Passionate about translating complex economic research into actionable policy recommendations for sustainable economic growth.
Incorrect Example:
Economist looking for new opportunities to use my skills. I have experience doing economic research and analysis. I’m good with numbers and statistics. I want to work for an organisation that values economic expertise and good research.
For entry-level candidates, focus on your advanced economic education, thesis research, technical skills, and genuine enthusiasm for applying economic analysis to address policy challenges and inform decision-making.
Entry-Level Economist Resume Summary Examples
Correct Example:
Recent PhD Economics graduate with specialisation in environmental economics and strong foundation in econometric analysis and policy evaluation. Dissertation research on carbon pricing mechanisms cited in parliamentary inquiry submissions and policy reviews. Proficient in advanced statistical software (R, Stata, Python) with experience in experimental design and big data analysis. Passionate about applying rigorous economic analysis to address climate policy challenges and inform evidence-based environmental regulation.
Incorrect Example:
New economics graduate with PhD who wants to work as an economist. I have studied economic theory and done some research. I’m good at math and statistics and I think I would be good at economic analysis work.
How to Update Your LinkedIn Profile When Updating Your Economist Resume
Maintaining alignment between your resume and LinkedIn profile is essential in the Australian economics profession, where research networks, policy influence, and thought leadership significantly impact career opportunities. Your LinkedIn profile should complement your resume while leveraging the platform’s unique features to showcase your economic expertise, research contributions, and engagement with policy debates.
Unlike your resume, LinkedIn allows for a more expansive approach that can include detailed project descriptions, research impact stories, and engagement with economic policy discussions. This is particularly valuable for economists, as the field values intellectual contribution and public policy engagement beyond traditional employment metrics.
LinkedIn Headline Optimisation for Economists
Your LinkedIn headline should immediately communicate your economic expertise and specialisation areas, appealing to potential employers, research collaborators, and policy stakeholders who may view your profile.
Effective Headlines:
• “Senior Economist | Macroeconomic Analysis & Monetary Policy | RBA | PhD Economics | Canberra”
• “Principal Economist | Competition Policy & Market Analysis | 10+ Years Experience | Published Researcher”
• “Economic Consultant | Labour Economics Specialist | Econometric Modelling Expert | Policy Advisory”
Ineffective Headlines:
• “Economist”
• “Economic Researcher”
• “Policy Analyst”
LinkedIn Summary vs Resume Summary: Key Differences
While your resume summary focuses on measurable professional achievements and technical capabilities, your LinkedIn summary can elaborate on your economic philosophy, research motivation, and broader policy interests. This narrative approach resonates well in the economics profession, where intellectual curiosity and theoretical perspective are important factors in professional networking and collaboration.
Your LinkedIn summary should expand on your research interests, highlight the real-world impact of your economic analysis, and demonstrate your understanding of current policy debates. Include keywords that Australian economic institutions commonly search for, while maintaining an authoritative voice that reflects your expertise and professional standing.
Showcasing Economist Experience on LinkedIn
LinkedIn’s format allows you to provide detailed context about your research projects, policy contributions, and analytical innovations that bring your economic expertise to life. Use this expanded space to describe the economic problems you’ve solved, the methodological advances you’ve made, and the policy outcomes your analysis has informed.
Consider uploading research papers, policy briefs, or presentation slides that demonstrate your analytical capabilities and thought leadership. These documents help differentiate your profile and provide concrete evidence of your contribution to economic knowledge and policy development.
LinkedIn Skills and Endorsements for Economists
Select 15-20 skills that represent the full spectrum of economic analysis competencies, balancing technical expertise with communication and leadership abilities. Prioritise skills frequently mentioned in Australian economics job postings, such as “Econometrics,” “Economic Modelling,” “Policy Analysis,” “Statistical Programming,” and specific software proficiencies.
Actively seek endorsements from research collaborators, policy colleagues, and academic peers. These endorsements serve as professional validation of your economic capabilities and are particularly valuable in a field where peer recognition and expertise assessment are crucial to career advancement.
LinkedIn Profile Tips for Australian Economists
Network Strategically: Connect with other economists, policy researchers, central bank officials, and academic colleagues across Australia and internationally. Join LinkedIn groups such as “Australian Economic Society,” “Policy Professionals Network,” or specialised economic research communities.
Share Thought Leadership: Regularly post insights about economic trends, policy developments, or research findings that demonstrate your ongoing engagement with economic issues and establish your voice in policy debates.
Highlight Australian Economic Context: Include understanding of Australian economic institutions, policy frameworks, and economic challenges. This local expertise is particularly valuable to employers seeking economists who understand the domestic policy environment and economic conditions.
Your LinkedIn profile serves as a dynamic showcase of your economic expertise and policy influence, allowing you to build relationships within Australia’s economics and policy community while demonstrating your contribution to economic understanding and evidence-based decision-making.
Creating an exceptional economist resume requires careful balance between demonstrating technical competency and showcasing practical policy impact. By following these guidelines and tailoring your content to highlight your analytical skills, research contributions, and economic expertise, you’ll be well-positioned to secure interviews with leading economic institutions, government departments, and research organisations across Australia.
Remember to complement your strong resume with an equally compelling cover letter that demonstrates your understanding of the specific organisation’s economic focus, research priorities, and policy objectives. For additional guidance on crafting the perfect application package, explore our related resources on economist cover letters and analysis of current economics sector job advertisements to ensure your application materials work together effectively to showcase your qualifications and enthusiasm for advancing your economics career.
