Assistant Economist Graduate Scheme
Build a brilliant career in the Government Economic Service. Join our graduate scheme as an Assistant Economist.
The Government Economic Service Assistant Economist Graduate scheme is now closed for applications.
What does an Assistant Economist do?
The Government Economic Service (GES) is at the heart of decision-making in the UK Government. Our 3,500+ economists work across more than 70 departments and agencies, from HM Treasury to the UK Space Agency! We are the largest employer of economists in the country.
As an assistant 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 producing analysis, collating and analysing data, providing advice on policy options, and preparing vital briefings for ministers.
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.
Learn more about the benefits of working for the Government Economic Service.
Who is eligible?
Applicants must have, or be on track to receive, a first - or upper-second class honours degree (or international equivalent) in economics, or a postgraduate degree in economics.
By August of the year you apply, you must hold at least one of the following:
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An undergraduate degree in economics
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A joint economics degree, where at least 50% of the credit value of all modules studied is in economics
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a postgraduate degree in economics
All candidates must have studied both micro and macroeconomics to qualify.
If you graduated more than five years ago then you must give examples of how you have maintained your economic knowledge on the application form.
Nationality requirements
- Please note that it is possible to meet the nationality requirements and still not be legally entitled to work in the UK.
- Individuals will need to demonstrate their eligibility under the Civil Service Nationality Rules (CSNRs).
- Candidates must have the right to work in the UK, as we do not offer sponsorship.
For full details please see Nationality requirements.
What development opportunities will I get?
We take your development seriously. While earning a competitive salary, you will be able to receive 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 learning opportunities 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.
Where will I work?
Opportunities are available in a range of government departments across the UK. Locations vary according to government department and differ from year-to-year. Please see the job descriptions which are included on the application page during the application window.
What will I get paid?
Salary varies according to government department and differs from year-to-year. Please see the job descriptions which are included on the application page during the application window for salary details.