Bioenergy Career Map: Economist

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The job of economist is a mid-level position in bioenergy, in the operations, management, and business career sub-sector. Job seekers with operations, management, and business backgrounds or a career in the liberal arts could consider this type of mid-level bioenergy job.

Economists work as staff specialists in the preparation of methodological research, data analysis, and brief summaries. People in these positions may have careers in bioenergy economics.

Economist

Alternate Title(s)Economist; Statistician
Education & Training Level DescriptionMaster’s degree in Economics, Statistics, Mathematics or a related field.
Experience3–10 years
Job Skills
  • Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications
  • Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data
  • Effective written, interpersonal, and communication skills.
Job ProfileAs the bioenergy industry grows, the sector will need skilled individuals who can estimate the economic effects of specific changes in legislation or public policy. Economists help fill this role, as they monitor important economic trends and can develop financial forecasts of the bioenergy sector. This information provides key insights to investors and bio-based companies.
 
Economists apply their knowledge of theoretical and empirical mathematical modeling to estimate the risks, costs, and impacts of financial market fluctuations and regulatory policy changes. From this they can make projections concerning economic factors related to energy market conditions or energy industry practices.
 
At the middle levels, economists work as staff specialists in the preparation of methodological research, data analysis, and brief summaries. A master’s degree in economics or a related field is recommended. Equivalent experience or training may substitute for an advanced degree. Experience in the energy field is preferred.