Explore how your federal experience as a Economist (GS-0110) translates into civilian opportunities — including salary comparisons, transferable skills, certifications, and top employers.
Understand how your GS level aligns with common corporate roles, responsibilities, and compensation. This helps frame your experience in terms that civilian employers recognize.
| GS Level Group | Corporate Titles | Responsibilities | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-4 | Junior Economist, Economic Research Assistant, Data Analyst | Assist in the collection and analysis of economic data, prepare reports, and support senior economists in research activities. | $40,000 - $60,000 |
| 5-7 | Economist I, Market Research Analyst, Quantitative Analyst | Conduct independent research; analyze economic trends, create forecasts, and assist in the preparation of comprehensive economic reports. | $60,000 - $80,000 |
| 8-9 | Economist II, Senior Economic Analyst, Policy Analyst | Lead economic studies; interpret and disseminate research findings; engage with stakeholders to inform policy decisions based on economic analysis. | $80,000 - $110,000 |
| 10-11 | Senior Economist, Principal Data Analyst, Economics Consultant | Direct major economic research initiatives; advise on complex economic issues; publish findings in professional journals and represent the organization in professional settings. | $110,000 - $140,000 |
| 12-13 | Lead Economist, Director of Economic Research, Senior Policy Advisor | Oversee economic research strategies, provide expert guidance on policy development; collaborate with government and industry leaders on economic initiatives. | $140,000 - $180,000 |
| 14-15 | Chief Economist, Executive Director of Economic Development, Vice President of Economic Analysis | Shape organizational economic strategies; influence policy decisions at a high level; manage large teams of economists and analysts to drive impactful research. | $180,000 - $250,000 |
| SES | Senior Vice President of Economics, Chief Economic Strategist, Senior Economic Policy Advisor | Lead comprehensive economic strategy; collaborate with executive leadership to align economic initiatives with organizational goals; represent the organization in high-stakes negotiations and discussions. | $250,000 - $350,000 |
Highlight the skills you've developed in federal service that directly apply to private sector roles. These core strengths help you stand out in interviews and on resumes.
Explore certifications and academic paths that enhance your value in the civilian job market. These credentials can bridge gaps and validate your expertise to employers.
Certified Business Economist (CBE)
The Certified Business Economist (CBE) credential offered by the National Association for Business Economics demonstrates advanced knowledge and competency in applying economic principles to business decision-making. This certification can enhance an economist's credibility in the civilian workforce by showcasing their analytical skills and ability to contribute to strategic planning and economic analysis.
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation is a globally recognized certification that focuses on investment analysis and portfolio management. For economists, this credential indicates a strong understanding of financial markets and economic indicators, enhancing their appeal to financial services firms and investment corporations.
Master's in Economics (MA/MS)
A Master's degree in Economics provides a deeper understanding of economic theories, quantitative analysis, and statistical methods, which are crucial for high-level economic analysis roles. This advanced education not only strengthens analytical and problem-solving skills but also signals to employers a commitment to the field, making candidates more competitive.
Data Science Certification
In today's data-driven economy, a Data Science certification equips economists with the skills necessary to analyze large datasets and extract valuable insights. This ability is essential for econometric modeling and policy analysis in various industries, greatly enhancing an economist's employability in technology and consulting firms.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification demonstrates proficiency in project management principles and techniques, which is beneficial for economists who may lead research projects or economic studies. This credential helps position an economist as a capable leader, making them attractive candidates for managerial roles in both public and private sectors.
See which companies and industries commonly hire professionals with your background. Use this insight to focus your job search and tailor your applications.
Get practical strategies to navigate the shift from federal to private sector work. Learn how to present your experience and avoid common transition pitfalls.
Stay informed on how your field is evolving and where opportunities are growing. These trends can guide your next steps and help you future-proof your career.
Transitioning from a federal GS-0110 Economist role to a private sector job can be an exciting but complex process. The skills and insights you’ve honed in your federal position are incredibly valuable, but effectively communicating them in a way that resonates with private sector employers will require some adjustments. Here are some comprehensive strategies to ensure a successful transition.
Embrace Change:
The first step in your transition is cultivating a growth mindset. Understand that moving from the federal government to the private sector will not only require you to adapt your contributions but also to embrace change. Be open to learning new organizational cultures, evaluative metrics, and collaborative practices—this departure from federal structures can be liberating.
Value Your Skills:
Your skills as an economist—data analysis, economic modeling, statistical evaluation—are highly sought after in the private sector. Recognize the market value of these skills and practice talking confidently about your contributions.
Flexibility and Adaptability:
In the private sector, markets may shift rapidly, and companies often pivot strategies. Cultivate an understanding of how your analytical capabilities can add value in dynamic business environments and be willing to innovate in problem-solving.
Translate Federal Terminology:
Your federal experience may involve specific jargon and abbreviations that don’t translate well to the private sector. Instead of using terms such as “budgetary analysis” and “appropriations,” try phrases like “financial forecasting” or “resource allocation.” Use plain language to explain your achievements and contributions in quantifiable ways.
Use a Results-Oriented Format:
Structure your resume to emphasize accomplishments. Use bullet points to detail your previous roles and focus on what you achieved. For example, instead of stating "Conducted economic analyses," say "Analyzed economic trends resulting in a 15% increase in cost saving measures for departmental budget."
Highlight Transferable Skills:
Include skills that are relevant to both sectors, such as data analysis, market research, and project management. Make sure your portfolio reflects successful project outcomes, especially metrics you can provide (e.g., efficiency improvements, revenue increases).
Tailor Your Resume for Each Job:
Customize your resume for each role you apply for. Align your experience with the job description using keywords that are relevant to the industry you are targeting.
Prepare for Behavioral Questions:
Expect behavioral-based interview questions. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to frame your responses. Prepare to discuss real-life scenarios from your federal experience that showcase your analytical skills, collaboration, and decision-making abilities.
Communicate Value Clearly:
Prepare a clear narrative showcasing how your economic expertise can contribute to the organization’s goals. Discuss how you've used your role to drive insights that matter to decision-makers in terms their priorities (e.g., profitability, sustainability, market trends).
Practice Your Pitch:
Have a succinct elevator pitch ready that summarizes your experience, results, and how you can contribute to the private sector employer in just a minute or two.
Ask Insightful Questions:
Interviews are a two-way street. Ask questions that reflect your understanding of the market and the company’s challenges. For example, inquire about their strategic goals concerning economic trends or data integration.
Leverage LinkedIn:
Ensure your LinkedIn profile is updated and reflects your career aspirations. Connect with colleagues, alumni, and industry professionals. Participate in relevant discussions and showcase your insights on economic issues.
Informational Interviews:
Reach out to professionals in your target industry for informational interviews. This can provide invaluable insights into the private sector landscape and help you refine your approach.
Join Professional Organizations:
Consider joining associations for economists or relevant economic organizations, many of which can offer networking opportunities, webinars, and job postings.
Attend Industry Events:
Look for relevant conferences, seminars, or workshops. Events provide great networking opportunities and allow you to engage with potential employers directly.
Use Business Language:
When describing your experience, consider what a hiring manager in the private sector values. Instead of bureaucratic achievements, discuss how your work drove efficiency, improved processes, or impacted the bottom line.
Focus on Outcomes and Impact:
Frame your stories around how your federal work resulted in measurable impacts. Businesses care about how past experience can translate to benefits—think about revenue generation, cost savings, or innovation.
Highlight Cross-Functional Collaboration:
Emphasize experiences where you worked with other departments or stakeholders. The ability to collaborate is crucial in the private sector.
Transitioning from a GS-0110 Economist to a private sector role may feel daunting, but with the right mindset and preparation, you can successfully convey the significant value of your federal experience. Remember to remain confident, patient, and persistent. The private sector is looking for talents like yours—data-driven, analytical, and solution-focused individuals who can solve real-world problems.