"Being an economist can mean different things on different days. Sometimes it is reading up on the state of the economy on things like the unemployment rate or inflation. On other days it can be planning how to evaluate the effectiveness of a local training program using administrative data. And on others it is about putting together a forecast of revenue for the upcoming year. It is a job where you can always be learning something new. I really enjoy helping take complex problems or confusing sets of numbers and helping others to understand the full story."

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Job Description

SOC Code: 19-3011

Economists conduct research, prepare reports, or formulate plans to address economic problems related to the production and distribution of goods and services or monetary and fiscal policy. May collect and process economic and statistical data using sampling techniques and econometric method.*

*Source: This information is based on O*NET™ data. O*NET is a trademark registered to the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration.

Top Job Skills:

• Data Architecture
• Identify trends
• Statistical analysis
• Forecast economic trends
• Present information

General Work Activities 

• Mental Processes
  • Forecast economic, political, or social trends
  • Proofread documents, records, or other files to ensure accuracy
  • Establish standards for products, processes, or procedures
• Interacting With Others
  • Explain regulations, policies, or procedures
  • Advise others on business or operational matters
  • Instruct college students in social sciences or humanities disciplines
  • Testify at legal or legislative proceedings
• Information Input
  • Conduct research on social issues
  • Review technical documents to plan work
• Work Output
  • Prepare scientific or technical reports or presentation

Source: SC Works Online Services (SCWOS)

*All data is factual, but names, Images, and quotations have been adapted to protect the Identity of employees and businesses.

Job Statistics

 

 

Examples of Workforce Areas with Job Openings

• Trident
• Midlands
• Worklink
• Catawba

Source: SC Works Online Services. Ask an SC Works representative for more information about postings in your area.

Examples of Employers with Job Openings

• Ernst & Young
• University of South Carolina
• Clemson University
• The World Bank
• Blue Cross Blue Shield

Source: SC Works Online Services. Ask an SC Works representative for more information about postings in your area

Related Occupations

• Economics Teachers, Postsecondary
• Environmental Economists
• Political Scientists
• Financial and Investment Analysts
• Investment Fund Managers
• Statisticians

NOTE: All data based on state averages. Information may vary depending on region, experience, and specific employment situation. Last Updated: 2025

Learn More with SCWOS

SC Works Online Services (SCWOS) is the state’s largest job database and provides all of South Carolina's job postings from all major sites, including Monster and Career Builder, in one resource. SCWOS has thousands of positions listed by employers all over the state. To access SCWOS, visit jobs.scworks.org.

Find in-depth breakdowns of occupational statistics such as necessary job certifications, job skills and abilities, current job openings, overview of general work activities, and more by visiting O*NET.org.