Inside Economist Careers

Biggest Surprises

"I was surprised to learn that economists can focus on ANY aspect of the economy they choose. It is interesting to see supply and demand play out in "trash"." (Recyclable Economist; 2012)

Career: 7 years of experience, currently based in New Hampshire, male
School: Studied Resource Economics at University Of New Hampshire in New Hampshire; completed Bachelor degree in 2005

Best & Worst Things About This Career

Economist: "The best part of the job is working with other economists in analyzing and solving rate setting and costing issues. This is especially interesting when the utility companies hire outside consultants to perform a special analysis. The job can be very satisfying when, in acting in the interest of utility rate payers, I am called upon to create and defend an alternative analysis of the same issue. The worst part of the job is when policy makers ignore sound economic advice and decide an issue based upon more political rationales." (2011)

Career Background

Economist

  Salaries

Career Tips

"Courses You Should Take And Other Tips...
Take as many applied micro economics, econometrics and industrial organization related courses as you can. If possible, attempt to use readily available utility industry data for papers or projects while in school. Paid and unpaid internships are also available at many regulatory agencies and utility companies. Also, there are an increasing number of firms that interact with the utility industry. These include system operators, renewable energy companies and numerous types of consulting firms. Experience with any of these public and private organizations will provide valuable insight into how the utility industry works." (Economist; 2011)