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Useful experience for economists includes:

• work as a data analyst
• public speaking.

Economists may do some or all of the following, depending on their area of specialisation:

• collect, study and analyse information on the economy or a specific part of the economy
• make predictions on the economy or parts of the economy based on their research
• develop economic policies and plans
• use computer software to predict economic behaviour
• study and explain economic events
• advise the Government and businesses
• write reports and give presentations.

Jobs for economists limited

Economists tend to stay in the job for a long time, so vacancies are rare.

According to the Census, 546 economists worked in New Zealand in 2018.

Chances strongest for economists with experience

Opportunities are best for economists who have:

• five or more years' experience
• proven analytical, research and communication skills.

You can increase your chances of finding work as an economist by working several years as a data analyst for local government or a private company.

Types of employers varied

Economists work for:

• businesses such as economic consultancies, and finance or accountancy companies
• government departments
• local and regional councils
• universities
• banks.

Many economists are self-employed, but to do this you usually need 10 or more years' experience and a good reputation.

Economists may progress to work as academics, business managers or economic strategists.

• Tertiary lecturer job information

Economists may specialise in researching a particular area, such as:

• health
• infrastructure
• regional economies
• labour markets.

Economists need to be:

• accurate and organised
• able to work well under pressure
• able to keep information private
• good at analysing and interpreting figures
• excellent at communicating
• excellent at problem-solving
• able to write reports
• able to present information.